I took the PSAT and am kinda hopeful about National Merit. Just wondering, when do they usually announce the semifinalists? Is there a set month or does it vary each year?
Hello there! It's great that you're looking ahead and planning for the potential of being a National Merit Semifinalist. Generally, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announces Semifinalists in early September of the year following the PSAT/NMSQT administration. So, if you took the PSAT in October of one year, you can expect to hear about Semifinalist standing about 11 months later.
Keep in mind that this is simply the announcement of Semifinalist status, which is based on the Selection Index score (a combination of your critical reading, math, and writing scores from the PSAT). If you're named a Semifinalist, you'll have to submit a detailed scholarship application, which includes essays and information about your extracurriculars, to be considered for Finalist standing and scholarships. That process happens in the months following the Semifinalist announcement.
As you wait for the results, my advice is to keep up with your high school work and extracurricular activities. These play a significant role if you advance to Finalist standing. Best of luck, and I hope you receive good news in September!
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