Home-Schooled Students and PSAT/NMSQT®
Why, When, and How
The Preliminary SAT®/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is a standardized test that measures the critical reading, math problem-solving, and writing skills your student has developed over the years.
Why?
Here are just some of the reasons for your student to take the PSAT/NMSQT:
- The test is the best preparation for the SAT.
- If your student is in the eleventh grade, he'll be eligible to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation's scholarship programs.
- The test identifies your student's academic strengths and weaknesses.
- The test forecasts SAT scores.
- He'll gain access to My College QuickStart™, an online personalized college and career planning kit that he can utilize throughout high school.
When?
Students take the PSAT/NMSQT in the eleventh grade to qualify for scholarships and to prepare for the SAT. Your student can also benefit from taking the test in the tenth grade or earlier because he'll get personalized feedback on the academic skills he needs for college. By taking the test before eleventh grade, he'll have more time to develop these skills and to begin the college planning process.
Depending on the school, the PSAT/NMSQT is given on one of two days in October. Test dates for 2008 are Wednesday, October 15 and Saturday, October 18.
How Does My Student Register?
You or your student should contact a local public or independent high school. Call the school's main number and ask to be directed to whoever handles the PSAT/NMSQT arrangements. Be sure to do so well in advance of the mid-October test dates, preferably during the previous June when the majority of schools place test orders. Most high schools should be accommodating. If the school seems resistant, you should ask another school in the area. Search for high schools in your area.
Here is a list of questions to ask the school when registering:
On which day will the test be administered? (There are only two possible PSAT/NMSQT test dates for schools. Find out which day the school has chosen.)
What is the fee? Are there any additional costs? How can I apply for a fee waiver (if applicable)?
Where is the test being held? In which classroom? How does my student get to the school?
What time is the test? When should my student arrive?
Whom can I contact if I have more questions?
How Much Does the Test Cost?
The fee for the 2008 PSAT/NMSQT is $13. The school may charge an additional fee to cover administrative costs. The College Board makes fee waivers available to schools for students in eleventh grade from low-income families who can't afford the test fee. Talk to the high school's counselor for more information.
Is My Student Eligible for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation's Scholarship Competitions?
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation cosponsors the PSAT/NMSQT. Your student must be in the eleventh grade to qualify for the scholarship competitions. Several home-schooled students have been awarded scholarships. For more information, contact your local school's counselor or the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
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