<p>In Mississippi, most students take the ACT for their college admission exam. We are given PSAT tests, though, and I would like to qualify for NMS. In order to qualify, I hear that I have to further take the SAT test. However, Mississippi test centers for the SAT are so widespread and less abundant, so I would have to travel 45 minutes to an hour or so to reach my destination. </p>
<p>I've been researching for the best prep books for the SAT, but I realized that there are barely any SAT test centers in MS. I don't know whether I should focus more on the ACT or just take both. </p>
<p>Suggestions? Thanks.</p>
<p>I'm going to post this in both SAT and ACT prep forums.</p>
<p>The SAT is not required to qualify for National Merit Scholarship. Purely your performance on the PSAT is evaluated for consideration. Hope that helps.</p>
<p>It states that you have to take the SAT to confirm your PSAT scores.</p>
<p>In order to be considered as a National Merit Finalist, the SAT is required. However, to participate in the National Merit Program initially (and furthermore to be recognized as “Commended” or a “Semifinalist”), the SAT is not required. To be recognized initially, you must merely: 1) Take the PSAT/NMSQT
2) Be enrolled as a high school student
3) Be registered as a US citizen</p>
<p>ACT is easier, imo</p>
<p>^^ Yeah, but being recognized as ‘Commended’ or ‘Semifinalist’ is decidedly not the same as ‘Finalist’ standing with respect to scholarship opportunities.</p>
<p>^ Yea, that’s implied.</p>