PSAT/NMSQT

FAQ'S

What is the PSAT?
The Preliminary SAT (PSAT), also known as the National Merit Qualifying Scholarship Test (NMSQT), is a test
that helps students practice for the SAT. The PSAT/NMSQT also enables 11th grade students to enter the
National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) scholarship program.

What is the NMSQT?
NMSQT stands for the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test which is also known as the PSAT. 11th
grades students MUST take this exam to be entered into the National Merit Scholarship competition from
the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). For information about the NMSQT please visit their
website.

How is the PSAT/NMSQT structured?
The PSAT/NMSQT includes a Reading and Writing Section and a Math Section. The test takes approximately
2 hours and 15 minutes with designated times for breaks between some sections.

How will the digital PSAT/NMSQT be administered?
Students will take the PSAT using their school-issued chromebook. There is a custom-built digital exam
(Bluebook application) students will download in advance of test day. Students are expected to the have
their school-issued chromebook fully charged the morning of test day.

Can students use a calculator on the Math the section?
Students are allowed to use approved calculators on all questions in the Math section. The digital test
platform itself has a built-in graphing calculator that students can use if they wish. Please see the list of
approved calculators for more information.

How can students prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT?
Students can prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT by visiting the following test prep resources:
Collegeboard test prep: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt/preparing
Khan Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org/login?continue=www.khanacademy.org&purpose=zendesk
Kaplan: https://www.kaptest.com/study/psat/

Full length practice tests are also available on Bluebook (testing app) or downloadable on paper
https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/practice/practice-tests/paper

When will students receive their scores?
Scores are typically released mid to late November. Students who have a college board account will be able
to see their scores online. In addition, if a student provides their mobile number on test day they will
receive a text message with additional information on how to view their scores.

What if I am unable to test on Saturday, October 26th?
DNHS is also offering PSAT/NMSQT on October 30th. This test date will only be offered to students who are
participating in a school sponsored activity, such as band/performing arts or athletic competitions (field
hockey, cross country, etc.) on Saturday, October 26th, and are unable to take the test that morning.

Students who wish to take the PSAT but are participating in a school sponsored activity on October 26th
should complete the October 30th PSAT Registration Request Form by Friday, September 13th.
October 30th PSAT Registration Request Form: https://forms.gle/fsh8ASdjSTXvQrMz8

Students unable test due to a non school-related conflict

We understand some students may have committed to non school-related activities on October 26th, and are unable to take the PSAT at DNHS. Students can contact the college board and locate other schools in San Diego county to find out more information about registering for the PSAT at a different testing location. Students should plan accordingly. Students do not need DNHS approval to test at another school site.

Important information for 11th grade students
If you are an 11th grade student planning to test at a different testing location, please make sure the school site/testing center is administering the PSAT/NMSQT version of the test. The PSAT/NMSQT taken during 11th grade, is the qualifying test for entry to the National Merit Scholarship program.