How to Sign Up for PSAT: Quick and Easy Steps for High Schoolers

Taking the PSAT/NMSQT is a big step for high school students.

It’s a great way to practice for the SAT and maybe even qualify for scholarships.

Students can sign up for the PSAT/NMSQT through their high school, usually in September or early October.

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The test is mainly for 11th graders, but some 10th graders take it too.

It’s not just about getting a score – it’s a chance to see what the SAT might be like.

Plus, it can open doors to college and career planning tools.

Students should talk to their school counselor to find out when and how to sign up.

The test dates are usually in October.

Some schools might have a sign-up deadline, so it’s good to ask early.

Key Takeaways

  • Students sign up for the PSAT/NMSQT at their high school, not through College Board.
  • The test is offered in October and is mainly for 11th graders.
  • Talking to a school counselor is the first step in the registration process.

Understanding the Basics

A student sitting at a desk with a computer, filling out an online form for the PSAT registration

The PSAT/NMSQT is a standardized test that helps students prepare for college and can open doors to scholarships.

It’s part of a group of tests designed to measure academic skills.

What is the PSAT/NMSQT?

The PSAT/NMSQT stands for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

It’s a practice version of the SAT that students usually take in their junior year of high school.

The test has two main sections: Reading and Writing, and Math.

Each section tests skills that students need for college.

Students get about 2 hours and 14 minutes to finish the test.

Most questions are multiple choice, but some math questions require written answers.

The PSAT/NMSQT helps students get ready for the SAT.

It shows them what to expect and where they might need to improve.

Connection to National Merit Scholarships

The PSAT/NMSQT is more than just practice.

It’s also the first step to enter the National Merit Scholarship Program.

This program gives out scholarships to top-scoring students.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation uses a special score called the Selection Index to pick semifinalists.

To calculate this score, they double the Reading and Writing score and add it to the Math score.

The highest possible Selection Index score is 228.

Students who do really well might become National Merit Scholars.

This title can help with college admissions and lead to scholarship money.

Differences Between PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and PSAT 8/9

The College Board offers three PSAT tests as part of its SAT Suite of Assessments.

Each test is for different grade levels.

The PSAT/NMSQT is for 11th graders (and sometimes 10th graders).

It’s the only one used for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

The PSAT 10 is just for 10th graders.

It’s similar to the PSAT/NMSQT but doesn’t qualify students for National Merit Scholarships.

The PSAT 8/9 is for 8th and 9th graders.

It’s easier than the other tests and helps younger students start preparing for college entrance exams.

All these tests help students track their progress and get ready for the SAT.

They show areas where students are doing well and where they might need extra practice.

Sign-Up Details

Signing up for the PSAT involves a few key steps and considerations.

Students need to be aware of important dates, costs, and what to expect on test day.

Let’s break down the essential information for a smooth registration process.

Starting the Registration Process

Students sign up for the PSAT at their high school, not through the College Board directly.

The first step is to talk to a school counselor.

They can provide details about the school’s specific registration process.

For homeschooled students, the process is a bit different.

They need to find a local high school that allows outside students to take the test.

The College Board’s high school search tool can help locate nearby schools offering the PSAT.

Students should create a College Board account if they don’t already have one.

This account will be useful for accessing PSAT/NMSQT scores later.

Key Dates and Deadlines

The PSAT/NMSQT is typically offered in October. Schools can choose from several test dates within a specific window.

The exact dates may vary by school, but they usually fall between October 1-31.

Two Saturday options are often available, usually around mid and late October.

Students should check with their school for the specific test date chosen.

The registration deadline is set by each school.

It’s usually a few weeks before the test date.

Students should ask their school counselor about the PSAT registration deadline as soon as possible to avoid missing out.

Understanding Costs and Fee Waivers

The PSAT/NMSQT has a fee, but the exact amount can change yearly.

Schools often cover part or all of the cost for their students.

Fee waivers are available for eligible students who can’t afford the test fee.

These waivers are handled through the school, not directly with College Board.

To request a fee waiver, students should:

  • Talk to their school counselor
  • Provide any required documentation of financial need
  • Submit the request well before the registration deadline

Some nonprofit colleges may offer additional support or resources for students using fee waivers.

What to Expect on Test Day

On test day, students should arrive at their school or designated testing location early.

They’ll need to bring:

  • A valid photo ID
  • Two No. 2 pencils
  • An approved calculator

The test usually takes about 3 hours.

It includes sections on Reading, Writing and Language, and Math.

Students can expect:

  • Short breaks between sections
  • Strict time limits for each part of the test
  • Clear instructions from test proctors

Frequently Asked Questions

A student sitting at a desk with a computer, filling out an online form with personal information to sign up for the PSAT

Signing up for the PSAT can seem tricky, but it’s pretty simple once you know the steps.

Here are some common questions about PSAT registration, with easy-to-follow answers.

What’s the easiest way to register for the PSAT online?

Most students can’t sign up for the PSAT online by themselves.

Schools handle the sign-ups.

Talk to your school counselor about taking the test.

They’ll give you the forms and info you need.

What’s the latest I can sign up for the PSAT in 2024?

The PSAT/NMSQT is given in October.

Schools set their own deadlines, but it’s usually a few weeks before the test date.

Check with your school for the exact cutoff.

Any tips for signing up my homeschooled student for the PSAT?

Homeschooled kids can take the PSAT too. Find a local high school that lets outside students test there.

Call them early to ask about their sign-up process and deadlines.

If I’m not enrolled in a school, how can I take the PSAT?

Students not in school can still take the PSAT.

Contact nearby high schools to see if they allow outside testers.

You might need to pay a fee and follow their sign-up rules.

What’s the cost to participate in the PSAT?

The PSAT has a fee, but it changes each year.

Schools often cover the cost for their students.

If not, you might pay around $18.

Some students can get fee waivers if they need help with the cost.

How do I figure out the closest place to take the PSAT?

You can find PSAT test locations by using the College Board’s school search tool.

Type in your zip code to see nearby schools offering the test.

Then, call them to check if they accept outside students.