What is the commended cutoff score for the fall 2016 PSAT? I’m looking to become a National Merit Scholarship recipient. What score should I aim for? All information is appreciated.
What state are you in?
Nationwide commended cutoff for the test taken in fall 2015 was 209, but for a scholarship, you need the state cutoff.
The cutoffs for this year’s PSAT won’t be announced until next year.
Im in the state of Florida. Does the cutoff increase each year?
No, the test changed this past year, so everything was different. Because of the revised test and score range, only this last year’s cutoffs apply, and previous year’s cutoffs are irrelevant.
The cutoff for Florida was 217. The cutoff could go up or down a point or so next year. In general, the schedule should be something like this for you:
Oct. 2016: Take the PSAT
Dec/Jan. 2016: Find out your score online
April 2017: Schools get a list of commended or higher students to verify addresses. Your school probably won’t mention this list. Here on CC, people will figure out the commended cutoff.
early Sept. 2017: Schools get a list of National Merit Semifinalists and notify them. Here on CC and on some blogs, people figure out the individual state cutoffs.
late Sept. 2017: Schools get an official list of commended students.