Hi everyone, anyone know what kind of score it usually takes to become a National Merit Scholar? I'm seeing all kinds of numbers and I'm not sure what's accurate.
Hello! The precise score required for National Merit consideration can actually vary by state and by year, as its determined by the top 1% of scores for test takers in that state, in that year.
Typically, this threshold has equated to a Selection Index Score anywhere from 210 to 222. The Selection Index Score is not the same as your total PSAT score; it's calculated by adding your raw Math, Reading, and Writing scores, then multiplying by two.
You can get a more concrete sense of where you'll need to aim in your state from this CollegeVine blog post, which lists the cutoff for each state from last year: https://blog.collegevine.com/national-merit-cutoffs
Just as a heads up, the PSAT/NMSQT has undergone changes, as the test went fully digital in 2024. The overall structure transformed, with Reading and Writing having two 32-minute modules for 54 questions, and Math having two 35-minute modules for 44 questions. The scoring system is still similar, so the Selection Index Score ranges should still be relatively accurate, but there could be some fluctuation since this is the first year with the digital test.
Remember that these are estimates, and the exact National Merit Scholarship qualifying score can fluctuate slightly from year to year. Generally speaking, though, the best way to ensure you'll qualify is to aim for a perfect or near-perfect score on the PSAT. For tips on how to maximize your PSAT score, I'd check out the tips provided on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-study-for-the-psat/
Good luck with your studies!
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