When should you take the PSAT?

Hey everyone, I’m a bit confused about when I’m supposed to take the PSAT. Some of my friends took it sophomore year, while others are saying junior year is the key time. Could someone clarify the ideal time to take the PSAT for National Merit considerations or just for practice?

Hello there! It's fantastic that you're looking ahead and planning your PSAT timing – that's a smart move. Simply put, the PSAT can be taken both during your sophomore and junior years, but for the National Merit Scholarship Program considerations, it's your junior year score that counts. As a sophomore, taking the PSAT is beneficial mainly for practice, to familiarize yourself with the test format and question types. When you sit for the exam as a junior, that's when the scores could qualify you for National Merit recognition and scholarships, provided you earn a score within the top percentile for your state. Importantly, being aware of the test dates and registration deadlines for your junior year is crucial so you don't miss out. Some students even opt to take it more than once for practice, but remember, it's the junior year score that will be used for National Merit. Good luck with your preparation!