Does taking the PSAT come with a fee, or is it covered by my school?

I heard some of my classmates mentioning PSAT fees, and I’m a bit confused—do we have to pay to take the PSAT, or is it something that the school takes care of?

The PSAT, or Preliminary SAT, usually comes with a fee, but whether or not students have to pay it out of pocket can vary depending on the policies of the individual schools. For most students, a fee is required to take the PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). As of my latest knowledge, the fee for the PSAT/NMSQT is typically around $17, but this can vary slightly from year to year. Some schools may choose to cover this cost for their students, absorb it into other fees, or offer the test for free as part of their college readiness programs. Others may require students to pay the fee themselves.

If you're unsure about your school's policy, the best course of action is to speak directly with your school's guidance counselor or the coordinator responsible for standardized testing. They will provide you with accurate information regarding the fee for your specific situation. If there is a fee and it poses a financial burden, be sure to let them know—there may be waivers available for eligible students. In addition to assisting with any financial concerns, your counselor can also offer valuable insights into preparing for the test, so don't hesitate to reach out. For example, some schools provide PSAT prep sessions or study materials, so it’s worth inquiring what resources may be available to you. Remember, taking the PSAT is a great way to practice for the SAT and possibly qualify for scholarships, so it’s generally beneficial to participate if you can.