Hey guys! Does anyone know how to calculate your NMSQT index? I'm curious about how it works and whether I might have a shot at National Merit. Thanks in advance!
To calculate your National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) Selection Index, follow these steps:
1. Take your total Reading Test score (the sum of your scores on all Reading Test questions) and your total Writing and Language Test score (the sum of your scores on all Writing and Language Test questions).
2. Add up these two scores to get a total of your evidence-based reading and writing (EBRW) score.
3. Take your total Math Test score (the sum of your scores on all Math Test questions).
4. Now, you'll have an EBRW score and a Math score. Remember that these scores range from 8 to 38.
5. Add your EBRW score and Math score together to get a total test score, which will range from 16 to 76.
6. Multiply the total test score by two. This value will be your NMSQT Selection Index, which ranges from 32 to 152.
Keep in mind that National Merit Scholarship Program eligibility requirements can vary from year to year, and becoming a National Merit Semifinalist depends on the NMSQT Selection Index cutoff score for your state. These cutoffs fluctuate slightly each year based on how students perform. Once the Semifinalist cutoff is announced for your state, you can compare your NMSQT Selection Index to it to see if you qualify.
Just a note, obtaining a high score on the PSAT/NMSQT is an impressive accomplishment, but it's essential to focus on your overall college application profile, which also includes your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. Good luck!
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