Should I even bother taking the PSAT?

I am a rising junior studying for the ACT. I got a 32 on my first ACT so I highly doubt I will be a finalist. Also I would have to spend time prepping only for the PSAT since in not studying for the SAT. I think I might be able to be a semi finalist but do you even get any benifit if you are a SF?
If it matters I’m looking at University of Alabama, Northwestern,WashU, and UUIC right now. I live in IL.

I’m not sure about the other schools, but the University of Alabama gives a very large NMF scholarship. Most schools don’t give any help to SF.

Your 32 shows promise for your overall testing aptitude. IT IS WORTH IT to try for Finalist. Study for the PSAT, and that will prepare you well for the SAT. Take both because you will need the SAT to confirm you for Finalist standing.

All but about 1,000 of the 16,000 semi-finalists make finalist. The ones that don’t either have poor grades (i.e. more than 1 or 2 C’s), have some sort of disciplinary issue or just didn’t fill out and send in the paperwork which includes a short essay. If you think you have a shot at SF, then definitely take it. UA gives a huge NMF scholly, NW gives $2k per year for NMF. It is worth the effort.

There are a number of schools that have some excellent NMF scholarships. Go ahead and take it.

@“Erin’s Dad” @18yrcollegemin @nutmeg_shippy Thanks guys I think im going to take the PSAT this fall. I took one of the old PSAT i know the format has changed but I didn’t want to waste the only test CB has released. I didn’t really take it seriously or have any strategies I just filled everything in and usually ended way before I needed to and I didn’t do too bad. I am going to start the khan academy program soon.