Hi everyone, I just got my PSAT score back and I did pretty well. I was wondering what score I would need on the PSAT to qualify for National Merit recognition? Also, does it vary by state?
Yes, the PSAT score required for National Merit does indeed vary by state. This is because the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) uses the Selection Index score, not the total PSAT score, to determine eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
The Selection Index score is calculated by doubling the sum of your Reading, Writing and Language, and Math Test scores. So if your scores in these sections were 35, 36, and 34, your Selection Index score would be 2 x (35+36+34) = 210. The Selection Index ranges from 48 to 228.
Now, the Selection Index score cut-off to qualify for National Merit varies each year and by state. For instance, in past years, the cutoff in California might have been around 222 while in North Dakota it could be around 210. You will have to check the specific cut-off for your state for the year you took the test.
Remember, meeting your state's Selection Index cut-off will make you a Semifinalist, which is already a great achievement. To become a Finalist and get a chance to win a National Merit Scholarship, you must meet additional requirements.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.