I studied for the SAT and got 2330 (800M 790W 740CR) but completely ignored the PSAT, as (a) the PSAT wasn’t offered in the country I had lived in (b) I hadn’t know about the (NMSQT) scholarship money. I’m a High School Sophomore (Junior year starts in August) and I plan to take the PSAT this Junior year to be a NMS finalist.
Do I need to take another SAT to ‘confirm’ the PSAT again? Or can I hide the SAT exam I did earlier and then cite it latern or somehow transfer the score?
I spent a lot prepping: 200 hours*$12/hr= $2400 opportunity cost + $96 SAT registration + $80 Books{>$2570} and I’d rather just be done with that test for good. Please tell me I will never have to respond to another “The author of passage one would most likely characterize…” ever again.
Are there are good alternatives to the NMSQT? I’m really busy with my business and I don’t have another 200(Or 50) hours to spare, unless NMS recommendations are of some value or they give finalists the $2500 as promised.
You don’t need to take another SAT to “confirm” the PSAT. As for Nat’l Merit Scholarships, well, since you mentioned you lived in a country that didn’t offer the PSAT, I have to ask if you’re a US citizen or permanent resident–NMS are available only to citizens and green card holders.
Thanks for replying. I’m a permanent resident, but I have applied for citizenship and intend to become a citizen at the earliest lawful opportunity.
Wikipedia states that “Students are confirmed as semifinalists as seniors, one year after taking the PSAT. Afterwards students must complete an application to become a Finalist. Other factors besides the PSAT Selection Index score are taken into account, such as the student’s Grade Point Average (GPA) and a confirming SAT score.”
It was just ambiguous whether this “confirming SAT score” can come BEFORE the PSAT or whether it must necessarily be done AFTER it. I have a perfect GPA, great “ECs”, etc., and will of course be improving this Junior year.