PSAT/NMSQT 2025-2026
📅 PSAT/NMSQT 2025 Test Dates
Testing Window: October 1-31, 2025
Saturday Test Dates:
Saturday, October 11, 2025
Saturday, October 18, 2025
Important: Individual schools choose their specific test date within the October window. Check with your school counselor for your exact test date.
Registration Deadline: Varies by school (typically mid-September 2025). Contact your school for specific deadlines.
What is the PSAT/NMSQT?
The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a standardized test that serves two primary purposes:
1. Practice for the SAT
The PSAT/NMSQT is a practice version of the SAT designed to prepare students for the actual SAT exam. It covers similar content and question types, helping students familiarize themselves with college entrance exam formats.
2. National Merit Scholarship Qualification
The test serves as the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Program, which awards approximately $180 million in scholarships annually to high-achieving students.
Key Features:
- Co-sponsored: College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC)
- Digital Format: Administered on computers (since 2023)
- Not Sent to Colleges: PSAT scores are NOT reported to colleges
- Primarily for Juniors: Taken by 11th graders for National Merit qualification (10th graders can take for practice)
- School-Based: Administered at high schools during the school day
Who Takes the PSAT/NMSQT?
- 11th Graders (Juniors): Primary test-takers for National Merit Scholarship qualification
- 10th Graders (Sophomores): Can take for practice (not eligible for National Merit as 10th graders)
Complete Testing Calendar 2025-2026
| Test Type | Grade Level | Testing Window | Saturday Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSAT/NMSQT | 11th Grade (+ 10th) | October 1-31, 2025 | October 11 & 18, 2025 |
| PSAT 10 | 10th Grade | March 2 - April 30, 2026 | No Saturday administrations |
| PSAT 8/9 (Fall) | 8th & 9th Grade | October 1-31, 2025 | No Saturday administrations |
| PSAT 8/9 (Spring) | 8th & 9th Grade | March 2 - April 30, 2026 | No Saturday administrations |
⚠️ Important: Only PSAT/NMSQT Qualifies for National Merit
Students must take the PSAT/NMSQT in their junior year (11th grade) to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program. PSAT 10 and PSAT 8/9 do NOT qualify for National Merit consideration.
For Class of 2027 students (current sophomores graduating in 2027): You must take the PSAT/NMSQT in October 2025 (your junior year) to qualify for National Merit Scholarships.
National Merit Scholarship Program 2027
🏆 Pathway to Over $180 Million in Scholarships
The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the most prestigious academic recognition programs in the United States. Taking the PSAT/NMSQT in October 2025 enters juniors into the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Competition.
Recognition Levels:
| Recognition Level | Number of Students | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| National Merit Scholars | ~7,500 students | $2,500 one-time scholarships + college-sponsored scholarships up to full ride |
| Finalists | ~15,000 students | Recognition on college applications, many college scholarships |
| Semifinalists | ~16,000 students | Top 1% of test-takers in each state, opportunity to advance to Finalist |
| Commended Students | ~34,000 students | Letter of Commendation, recognition on college applications |
Eligibility Requirements for National Merit 2027:
- ✅ Take PSAT/NMSQT in October 2025 during junior year
- ✅ Be enrolled as a high school student (traditional or homeschool)
- ✅ On track to graduate in 2027
- ✅ Plan to enroll full-time in college fall 2027
- ✅ Meet citizenship/residency requirements
National Merit Semifinalist Cutoff Scores 2026 (Class of 2026)
Semifinalist cutoff scores vary by state. Here are the Class of 2026 cutoffs (most recent available) to give students an idea of the competitive range:
| State | Selection Index Cutoff | State | Selection Index Cutoff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 225 | Texas | 220 |
| New Jersey | 225 | Virginia | 222 |
| California | 223 | Florida | 219 |
| Maryland | 223 | Illinois | 221 |
| Washington | 223 | Pennsylvania | 219 |
| Connecticut | 222 | Ohio | 217 |
| New York | 222 | New Mexico | 210 |
| North Carolina | 220 | Wyoming | 210 |
Range: Cutoffs for Class of 2026 ranged from 210 (lowest states) to 225 (highest states).
Note: Class of 2027 cutoffs will be announced in September 2026 after October 2025 test results are processed.
PSAT/NMSQT Test Format and Content
Test Structure Overview
| Section | Modules | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading and Writing | 2 modules | 54 questions total (27 per module) | 64 minutes (32 min per module) |
| Math | 2 modules | 44 questions total (22 per module) | 70 minutes (35 min per module) |
| Total Test Time | 98 questions | 2 hours 14 minutes | |
Break: 10-minute break between Reading/Writing and Math sections
Total Time Including Break: Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes
Reading and Writing Section
What's Tested:
The Reading and Writing section is combined into a single score and tests:
- Craft and Structure: Analyzing word choice, text structure, purpose, claims, evidence
- Information and Ideas: Central ideas, supporting details, inferences, command of evidence
- Standard English Conventions: Grammar, usage, punctuation, sentence structure
- Expression of Ideas: Rhetorical synthesis, transitions, clarity
Passage Types:
- Literature (fiction, poetry)
- History/Social Studies
- Science
Format:
Each question is paired with a short passage (25-150 words). Questions test reading comprehension and writing/editing skills.
Mathematics Section
Content Domains:
1. Algebra (35% of math section):
- Linear equations: 3x + 5 = 17, x = 4
- Linear functions: y = mx + b
- Systems of equations: 2x + y = 10, x - y = 2
- Inequalities: 5x - 3 ≥ 12
2. Advanced Math (35% of math section):
- Quadratic equations: x² - 5x + 6 = 0
- Quadratic formula: x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a
- Exponential functions: y = ab^x
- Polynomial operations and factoring
- Equivalent expressions
3. Problem-Solving and Data Analysis (15% of math section):
- Ratios and proportions: ³⁄₅ = x/20
- Percentages: 30% of 250 = 75
- Statistics: mean, median, mode, range
- Probability and data interpretation
- Linear regression and scatterplots
4. Geometry and Trigonometry (15% of math section):
- Area and volume formulas: A = πr², V = lwh
- Pythagorean theorem: a² + b² = c²
- Basic trigonometry: sin θ, cos θ, tan θ
- Circle properties and equations
- Lines, angles, and triangles
Calculator Policy:
✅ Calculator ALLOWED for entire Math section
- Built-in graphing calculator provided in digital test (Desmos)
- Students may bring their own approved calculators
PSAT/NMSQT Scoring
Understanding Your PSAT Scores
Score Ranges:
| Score Type | Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Total Score | 320-1520 | Sum of Reading/Writing and Math section scores |
| Reading and Writing Section Score | 160-760 | Combined score for Reading and Writing |
| Math Section Score | 160-760 | Score for Mathematics section |
| Selection Index | 48-228 | Used for National Merit qualification (explained below) |
National Merit Selection Index Calculation:
The Selection Index is calculated differently from the total score and is used specifically for National Merit qualification:
Selection Index = (Reading/Writing Score ÷ 10) + (Math Score ÷ 10) × 2
(All multiplied by 2)
Example Calculation:
- Reading/Writing: 700
- Math: 720
- Total Score: 1420
- Selection Index: (70 + 72) × 2 = 142 × 2 = 284... wait that's wrong
Correct Formula: Selection Index = (Reading/Writing Score / 10) + (Math Score / 10) + (Math Score / 10)
Or simplified: Reading/Writing Test Score + (Math Test Score × 2)
Where test scores are on 8-38 scale.
Actual Calculation (using test scores 8-38):
Selection Index adds: Reading Test Score + Writing Test Score + Math Test Score (counted twice)
Range: 48-228
How to Register for PSAT/NMSQT
Registration Process
Important: Unlike the SAT, you do NOT register online through College Board. Registration is handled entirely through your high school.
Step-by-Step Registration:
Step 1: Check with Your School
- Contact your school counselor or guidance office
- Ask when PSAT/NMSQT registration opens (typically August-September)
- Find out your school's specific test date
- Confirm registration deadline (often early-mid September)
Step 2: Complete Registration
- Fill out registration form provided by your school
- Some schools register students automatically; others require opt-in
- Provide necessary information (name, grade, etc.)
Step 3: Pay Test Fee
- Standard Fee: $18 (as of 2025-2026)
- Some schools cover costs for juniors
- Fee waivers available for students with financial need
- Payment methods vary by school (cash, check, online)
If Your School Doesn't Offer PSAT/NMSQT:
- You can take the test at another nearby school that does offer it
- Use College Board's PSAT School Search tool to find participating schools
- Contact that school's counseling office to arrange registration
- Saturday test dates (October 11 & 18) may be options
Typical Registration Timeline:
| Period | Action |
|---|---|
| August - Early September | Schools announce test dates and open registration |
| Early-Mid September | Registration deadlines (varies by school) |
| Mid-Late September | Late registration (may incur additional fees) |
| October 1-31, 2025 | Testing window |
Test Day: What to Bring and Expect
What to Bring
✅ REQUIRED
- Photo ID or school ID
- Approved calculator (optional but recommended)
- No. 2 pencils for notes/scratch work
- School-provided device (if digital test)
❌ PROHIBITED
- Cell phones during test
- Smart watches or fitness trackers
- Separate timers or alarms
- Books, notes, or reference materials
- Food or drinks in testing room
Approved Calculators
- Graphing calculators: TI-84, TI-83, TI-89, Casio fx-9750GII
- Scientific calculators: TI-30X, TI-34, Casio fx-260
- Four-function calculators: Allowed but not recommended
- NOT allowed: Calculators with QWERTY keyboards, tablet/phone calculator apps
- Digital test: Built-in Desmos graphing calculator provided
Test Day Timeline
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:30-8:00 AM | Arrival, check-in, seating (typical time - varies by school) |
| ~8:00-8:30 AM | Test instructions, administrative procedures |
| ~8:30-9:34 AM | Reading and Writing Section (64 minutes) |
| ~9:34-9:44 AM | 10-minute break |
| ~9:44-10:54 AM | Math Section (70 minutes) |
| ~10:54-11:00 AM | Collect materials, dismissal |
Note: Actual times vary by school. Most students finish by late morning.
PSAT Score Release and Reports
When Will I Get My Scores?
Score Release Timeline:
- Digital Scores: Typically available 2-3 weeks after test date
- Projected Release: Late October to early November 2025
- Access Method: Online through College Board account
- Paper Reports: Schools typically receive and distribute within 6-8 weeks
What's Included in Score Report:
- Total Score (320-1520)
- Reading and Writing Section Score (160-760)
- Math Section Score (160-760)
- Selection Index (48-228) - for National Merit
- Percentile rankings (compared to other test-takers)
- Subscores showing strengths and weaknesses
- Question-level feedback
- Personalized SAT study plan
National Merit Notification Timeline:
| Date | Notification |
|---|---|
| April 2026 | High-scoring students receive letters from NMSC indicating high performance |
| September 2026 | Commended Students and Semifinalists announced (through schools) |
| October 2026 | Semifinalists submit applications to become Finalists |
| February 2027 | Finalists announced |
| March-June 2027 | Scholarship winners notified |
Preparation Strategies
How to Prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT
📚 Use Official Materials
Practice with official College Board resources. Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions.
📖 Read Widely
Reading challenging texts (news, literature, science articles) builds comprehension skills naturally.
🔢 Master Math Fundamentals
Review algebra, geometry, and basic trigonometry. Focus on areas where you're weakest.
⏰ Practice Time Management
Learn to pace yourself. Digital format is adaptive - don't rush but don't spend too long on any question.
✍️ Learn Test Strategies
Understand question types and develop strategies for each. Practice elimination techniques.
📝 Start Early
Begin preparation in summer before junior year. Consistent practice over months beats cramming.
Free Official Preparation Resources
- Khan Academy: Official partner - personalized practice linked to PSAT scores
- College Board Website: Practice tests, sample questions, test specifications
- Bluebook App: Official digital testing platform for practice
- PSAT Practice Tests: Full-length tests available on College Board site
- Daily Practice: Free question-of-the-day from College Board
Official Resources and Links
College Board - Official PSAT/NMSQT Resources
PSAT/NMSQT Official Homepage Official Test Dates What's On The Test Digital Practice & Preparation PSAT Student Guide (PDF)Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and PSAT 8/9?
PSAT/NMSQT: Taken by juniors (and sophomores) in October; qualifies for National Merit Scholarship.
PSAT 10: Taken by sophomores in spring; does NOT qualify for National Merit; practice only.
PSAT 8/9: Taken by 8th and 9th graders; practice test only; easier than PSAT/NMSQT.
Do colleges see my PSAT scores?
No. PSAT scores are never sent to colleges. Only National Merit recognition (Semifinalist, Finalist, Scholar) appears on applications if you choose to include it.
Can I take the PSAT/NMSQT as a sophomore and still qualify for National Merit?
No. Only PSAT/NMSQT scores from your junior year count toward National Merit Scholarship qualification. However, taking it as a sophomore is excellent practice.
What's a good PSAT score?
For National Merit Semifinalist: Varies by state but generally 210-225+ Selection Index.
For SAT Prediction: Add approximately 80-120 points to estimate potential SAT score.
National Average (2024): Approximately 920 total score (460 ERW, 460 Math).
Is the PSAT easier than the SAT?
Slightly. The PSAT covers similar content but doesn't include some advanced math topics and has a lower ceiling (1520 vs 1600). The difficulty of individual questions is comparable.
Can I use a calculator on the PSAT?
Yes. Calculators are allowed for the entire Math section. The digital test includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator, or you can bring your own approved calculator.
How much does the PSAT cost?
$18 for the 2025-2026 school year. Some schools cover the fee for juniors. Fee waivers are available for eligible students with financial need.
When should I start preparing for the PSAT?
Ideal timeline: Begin preparation in summer before junior year (June-August 2025 for October 2025 test). Consistent preparation over 3-4 months is most effective.
What if I'm sick on test day?
Contact your school immediately. Some schools offer multiple test dates within October window. If you miss the entire window, you may need to wait until next year or take SAT for college admissions (but won't qualify for National Merit).
Important Reminders
- Junior Year Only for National Merit: Must take PSAT/NMSQT in October 2025 (junior year) to qualify for 2027 National Merit
- Register Through School: No online registration - all handled by your high school
- Testing Window: October 1-31, 2025 - Check your specific school date
- Registration Deadline: Typically mid-September - don't miss it!
- Digital Format: Test is entirely computer-based; practice with digital format
- No Cell Phones: Leave phone at home or in locker - violations can void scores
- Scores Available: 2-3 weeks after test date (late October/early November 2025)
- Prepare Early: Start preparation summer before junior year for best results
Final Thoughts
The PSAT/NMSQT is more than just a practice test - it's your gateway to potential National Merit Scholarships worth thousands of dollars and prestigious academic recognition. Whether or not you're aiming for National Merit status, the PSAT provides invaluable experience with standardized testing and helps you identify areas to strengthen before taking the SAT.
For juniors taking the October 2025 test, this is your one and only chance to qualify for National Merit Scholarship recognition. Make it count by preparing thoroughly, registering on time, and giving your best effort on test day.
Remember that PSAT scores are never sent to colleges, so there's no pressure beyond your own goals. Use this as an opportunity to assess your skills, gain testing experience, and potentially qualify for life-changing scholarship opportunities. Approach the test with confidence, adequate preparation, and a positive mindset.
Best wishes to all students taking the PSAT/NMSQT in October 2025!
⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about the PSAT/NMSQT for the 2025-2026 school year based on official College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation publications. Specific test dates, registration deadlines, and procedures vary by individual schools. Always verify information with your school's counseling office and consult official College Board resources. National Merit Semifinalist cutoff scores for Class of 2027 will not be available until September 2026. Information is accurate as of October 2025.
Last Updated: October 2025 | Official Source: College Board & National Merit Scholarship Corporation