<p>I think I understand that PSAT scores and cutoff for individual states determine eligibility for National Merit Semifinalist status. What determines NMSF to NM Finalists and then eventually Winner status. I know SAT scores, school recommendations come in the picture but how about the original PSAT score itself ? </p>
<p>for e.g If I make the cutoff for the state but its not a perfect score but SAT scores are very good. Will PSAT score affect being a winner ( assuming school recommendations and academic stats are good)</p>
<p>TIA</p>
<p>There is a whole forum on this topic where you can read through this type of info. Start with the FAQ thread pinned at the top. </p>
<p>[National</a> Merit Scholarships - College Confidential](<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/national-merit-scholarships/]National”>National Merit Scholarships - College Confidential Forums)</p>
<p>Generally your PSAT does NOT make a difference in getting NMF status once you have made the cutoff to NMSF. However… there is “secret sauce” in receiving the actual scholarships from NMSC, no one actually knows their “formula” for deciding who gets the one time $2,500 scholarships they give. PSATs are probably a tiny fraction of that scholarship decision process if it is considered at all. And there are other ways to get scholarships as an NMF (corporations & colleges give them). </p>
<p>If you have additional questions after looking over the FAQs and reading some of the threads on that forum, that would be a good place to post them.</p>
<p>Thanks so much. sorry for posting in the wrong forum.</p>