Is it possible to raise this PSAT score to qualify for National Merit Scholar?

<p>Hi, I'm a sophomore and with no studying at all I got a 188 on the PSAT.</p>

<p>Next year, I want to get about a 220 or 225.</p>

<p>Is it possible to raise my PSAT score to about 35-40 points? How should I study over the summer?</p>

<p>I'm looking at HYPS right now and I really want to do well on the PSAT during junior year. Thanks.</p>

<p>Of course you can, but you have to put in the work.</p>

<p>I went from 185 sophomore year to 220+ junior year, so it’s very possible.</p>

<p>I scored 202 my sophomore year, and scored a 224 last October, which is not quite as big a jump as you are making. However, I totally believe it’s possible. What you specifically need to work on will depend on what your strengths are (Math, CR, or Writing) but generally I would totally recommend buying the College Board SAT book (the blue and green one that people on here fawn over). Do about 5 tests in it, spaced out over the next few months. Score yourself on your first to see what you need to work on, and go from there. If math is your Achilles heel, then a lot of your work will come to you through the math you’re learning in school. If CR and Writing trip you up, then your biggest help will come from reading. Seriously. READ. It makes all the difference. If you do all that stuff, then there’s absolutely no reason why you can’t make NMS next year.</p>