How is the NMSC index calculated?

Hi! I'm trying to understand the process of qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Can someone explain how the NMSC index is calculated and what scores count towards it?

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) uses the Selection Index to determine eligibility for its scholarship programs, based on participants' PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) performance. The Selection Index is the primary factor in selecting students for various stages of the National Merit Scholarship Program, such as commended students, semifinalists, finalists, and scholarship winners.

To calculate the NMSC Selection Index, follow these steps:

1. First, obtain your scores for the three test sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. Each of these sections is scored on a scale of 8 to 38.

2. Add your section scores together: Reading score + Writing and Language score + Math score. The sum of these scores will range between 24 and 114.

3. Multiply the sum by 2 to obtain your NMSC Selection Index. The Selection Index will range from 48 to 228.

For example, let's say you scored 34 on Reading, 35 on Writing and Language, and 36 on Math.

Step 1: Add your section scores (34 + 35 + 36) which equals 105.

Step 2: Multiply the sum by 2 (105 x 2) to obtain your Selection Index of 210.

Each state has its cut-off score, which changes annually. Students who score at or above the cut-off for their state become National Merit Semifinalists. While the threshold varies from state to state, generally higher Selection Index scores increase your chances of becoming a semifinalist and moving on to later stages of the National Merit Scholarship Program. Remember that these cut-offs can change each year, so it's important to stay informed.