The PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT)

The PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) is designed to prepare students for the SAT Reasoning test and qualify 11th grade students for National Merit Scholarship Corporation scholarship programs. The test measures: Critical reading skills, Math problem-solving skills and Writing skills

The PSAT/NMSQT contains five sections: Two 25-minute critical reading sections, two 25-minute math sections and one 30-minute writing skills section.

The test usually is given the third Wednesday in October every year to students in grades 9-11 from 7:25-11:00 a.m. (the actual test is 2 hours and 10 minutes). The normal school day resumes after lunch at 11:39am, with an abreviated schedule. The goal is 100% participation. Every 9th, 10th and 11th grade student is expected to take the test. MCPS pays for testing material for students to participate.

Seniors do not take the test (their school day starts after lunch on PSAT test day). If senior students arrive early, or other students arrive after testing has begun, they will be directed to the designated study hall in the cafeteria.

Students are not allowed to talk, bring outside reading materials, or bring food or drinks (not even water) into the testing room.

Students may use four function, scientific or graphing calculators for the math portions only.

Student and their families should expect results in the mail from the College Board 6-8 weeks from the test date.

Students should
• Get a good night's rest before the test
• Follow the directions exactly as they are given
• Mark the answer sheet carefully
• Bring ID (school ID is fine), a calculator and #2 pencils