Hey everyone, I'm a junior trying to plan out my standardized testing schedule and I’m wondering, is there a compelling reason to take the PSAT/NMSQT? I’ve heard it’s useful for National Merit Scholarships, but are there any other benefits that make it worth the stress, especially if I'm already planning on taking the SAT? Thanks for any insights!
Hello there! It's great that you're being proactive about your testing schedule. Taking the PSAT/NMSQT can certainly provide benefits beyond just the chance at a National Merit Scholarship. For one, it's a fantastic practice opportunity for the SAT. The format and question types are similar, so it's a solid way to get comfortable with the test environment without the high stakes of an official SAT.
Additionally, your PSAT scores can garner some attention from colleges through the Student Search Service, which can lead to informational mailings from schools that might interest you. Moreover, some schools offer their own scholarships to high-scoring PSAT students, so it could open more doors for you financially, even if National Merit isn't on the table.
While taking the test does add another item to your to-do list, the experience and potential benefits can make it a worthwhile addition, especially if you're aiming for a strong SAT score later on. Absolutely weigh the pros and cons based on your individual stress levels and commitments, but in many cases, the PSAT/NMSQT can serve as a valuable step in the college admissions process. Good luck with your decision and future tests!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.