Calculating PSAT Selection Index Score

I took my PSAT, but I'm having a hard time figuring out how the selection index score is calculated. I understand that it's used for the National Merit Scholarship eligibility, but how is it derived from the raw PSAT scores?

Sure, I can help with that. The Selection Index score is calculated differently than the total PSAT score, and it does indeed determine eligibility for National Merit programs. Your Selection Index score comes from your Reading, Writing and Language, and Math scores, just like your total PSAT score, but the method of calculating it is different.

Here's a step-by-step guide to calculate your Selection Index:

1) First, look at your Reading, Writing and Language, and Math "test scores". These should be in a range of 8-38.

2) Add up these three test scores. The total will fall somewhere between 24 and 114. For example, if you received a Reading score of 30, a Writing and Language score of 33, and a Math score of 35, your total would be 98.

3) Multiply the total from step 2 by 2. This is your Selection Index score.

So, if you had a total of 98 from the example above, your Selection Index score would be 196 (98 2).

The maximum possible Selection Index score is 228.

Keep in mind that qualifying Selection Index scores for National Merit Scholarships vary from year to year and state to state. Remember also that a high Selection Index score qualifies a student for National Merit Recognition, but it does not guarantee a scholarship, as there are additional steps and criteria to be named a National Merit Scholar.

I hope I was able to clarify how the PSAT Selection Index score is calculated!