Will I be able to make it to NM Finalist standing?

Test Preparation
1

<p>Hi guys, I just recently was notified that I got National Merit Semi Finalist standing with a score of 220 on the PSAT in CA. Our school's "Scholarship Chair," aka the official in charge of all things National Merit-related, went over the application to become a Finalist and all the things we had to fill out. However, now I am worried that I might not be able to "validate" my 220 and obtain Finalist standing with my current grades/scores:</p>

<p>GPA: UW- 3.6, W- 3.9
SAT I: 2040 (retaking it in Oct., aiming for 2100+)
SAT II: Math IIC- 800, Korean- 800, Physics- 750</p>

<h2>ACT: 31 (retaking this Saturday!, aiming for 32+)</h2>

<p>I'm sure I will get an above average recommendation from my AP Eng Lang teacher and my essay will be great.</p>

<p>Although the fact that 15,000 out of 16,000 Semi Finalists go on to become Finalists makes me feel better, I am still worried especially because my mediocre GPA and 2040 on SAT I (or PSAT-equivalent of 204) doesn't match up with my 220. However, I am fairly confident I will be able to get at least 2100 next month.</p>

<p>How am I looking to become a National Merit Finalist?</p>

2

<p>You will be fine. Even with your 2040 SAT and your GPA.</p>

3

<p>I agree with shennie-you are fine as is.</p>

4

<p>Thank you for the input.</p>

<p>Anyone happen to have any personal experience with getting Finalist that has similar stats to mine? I think that would do the trick, in terms of relieving my nerves. -.-</p>

5

<p>I think that all they require is about a 2000, or above the lowest national SF score.</p>

<p>And anyways, the 1000 people that do not qualify are the ones that do not respond or that do not fill out the proper paper work. I have not heard of anyone actually make SF and then fail to qualify for finalist.</p>

6

<p>kMz-my son had very similar stats to you (within 40 points of your SAT score)and he made NMF last year. The advice we received last year was similar to what others have told you-if you have at least a 2000, you do all your paperwork properly and on time you will be good. Check on your GC and make sure he/she does her part and does it on time. Hope that helps-it is a stressful process and the waiting can be brutal-hang in there!</p>

7

<p>Thank you! Appreciate it. :)</p>