National Merit Finalist Application Process?

In the Official Student Guide to the PSAT ( http://www.nationalmerit.org/student_guide.pdf ), CollegeBoard says that in order for a Semifinalist to qualify to become a National Merit Finalist, a student must “take the SAT® and earn scores that confirm the PSAT/NMSQT performance that resulted in Semifinalist standing”.

In what period of time would a student need to take the SAT? I am a current junior and have been preparing to take the New SAT in March of 2016 due to past poor performance on the old SAT. I just wanted to confirm that I will be able to submit a score on the new SAT to be taken into consideration when applying to be a National Merit Finalist. After all, my score on the old SAT would not reflect or confirm my performance on the new, redesigned SAT.

So, for any finalists out there: if I take the New SAT in March of 2016, will I be able to use that score when applying to be a National Merit Finalist or do I need to take the old SAT before this time?

Thank you!

Yes, if you make semifinalist taking the March 2016 SAT will be fine.