Hey all! I'm planning to attempt the PSAT to try and qualify for National Merit Scholarship. However, I'm slightly confused about how the scores are determined? Like, what counts towards the National Merit Scholarship scores? Any insights could be really helpful - thanks!
For the National Merit Scholarship Program, your PSAT scores are converted to a Selection Index score, which is used to determine eligibility. The Selection Index score is calculated by doubling the sum of your Reading, Writing and Language, and Math scores.
For instance, if you got a Reading score of 34, a Writing and Language score of 35, and a Math score of 36, your Selection Index score would be: 2(34 + 35 + 36) = 210.
The cutoff for National Merit Semifinalist status varies by state and by year, but it usually ranges from 214 to 222 out of a maximum of 228. Although the PSAT is offered digitally and the structure has changed as of 2024, the Selection Index calculation remains the same.
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