Grades
Selection
Admission
The October junior year PSAT/NMSQT is special — it's the only test that qualifies you for National Merit Scholarship consideration! Unlike the PSAT 8/9 and PSAT 10, this one counts.
Most schools automatically register juniors — check with your counselor to confirm you're signed up. If your school doesn't offer it, find a nearby location at collegeboard.org.
| Recognition | Selection Index | What Happens | |-------------|-----------------|--------------| | Commended | ~208+ | Certificate of recognition | | Semifinalist | ~223-225 (California) | Advance to compete for scholarships |
National Merit Finalists can receive:
Use the same strategies as SAT prep — the PSAT is simply a shorter version of the SAT. Khan Academy's free prep is excellent!
Create a free account to track all 243 admission tasks with personalized deadlines for Junior Year.
Or browse the full admissions timeline