PSAT/NMSQT Test Dates and Score Release Dates

The PSAT/NMSQT, a crucial practice test for the SAT and a gateway to scholarship opportunities, is administered annually in October. However, unlike the SAT, students don't register directly with the College Board. School districts hold the reins on whether and when to offer the PSAT/NMSQT.

This can make navigating PSAT/NMSQT Test Dates and Score Release Dates a little tricky. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate these important dates and set yourself up for success.

Here's the key takeaway: Don't wait for a PSAT/NMSQT Test Dates registration notification from College Board. Instead, proactively reach out to your school counselor or principal to confirm if your school offers the PSAT/NMSQT and their designated date within the October window.

PSAT/NMSQT: Your Guide to College Prep and Scholarship Opportunities. All info here!

While you can't register yourself, this proactive approach allows you to plan your study schedule around the PSAT/NMSQT Test Dates and explore PSAT/NMSQT prep resources well in advance. By staying informed, you'll be ready to hit the ground running when your school's PSAT/NMSQT Test Date arrives.

PSAT/NMSQT Test Dates: When to Prepare and What to Expect

PSAT/NMSQT testing may occur on a school day between these dates:

October 1–October 31, 2024.

• Schools may also choose to administer the PSAT/NMSQT on Saturday, October 12, 2024, or Saturday, October 26, 2024.
  (Note: For Fall 2024 only, the PSAT/NMSQT will be offered on two Saturdays to accommodate schools or students who cannot test on October 12th due to Yom Kippur.)

PSAT/NMSQT Test Dates and Score Release Dates

PSAT/NMSQT scores are typically available online 4–6 weeks after the test administration.

There are two ways to get your score report. If you provided a cell phone number when you took the PSAT/NMSQT, you can download the BigFuture School mobile app and you'll get a notification in the app telling you your scores are available to view.

You can also get a PDF of your score report from your school. This PDF will have all of the same information that’s in the app plus more detail about your performance in the four reading and writing and four math content areas including the percentage of the section each content area represents. Ask your school counselor for your score report.

If you’re viewing your scores in the BigFuture School mobile app, the first thing you’ll see is your Total Score which is a combination of your scores on the Reading and Writing and Math sections.

Percentile Comparisons show you the percentage of students scoring the same as or lower than you. For example, 75th percentile means your score was the same as or higher than 75% of other students.

Understanding Your Digital PSAT/NMSQT Scores

As always, if you have a personal College Board account you can log in to get additional insights about your scores and other resources. Depending on where you live, you’ll be able to see more detailed comparisons so you’ll understand how your score compares to others in your school, district, state, country, or other students worldwide that took the PSAT/NMSQT.

In the NMSC Selection Index Score section, you can see if you meet entry requirements for the National Merit Scholarship program, an annual academic competition for recognition and scholarships.

While you're in the BigFuture School mobile app, be sure to check your messages for more information about financial aid, scholarships, and guidance to help you plan for college and explore careers.

Unlock Your Potential: Insights from Your PSAT/NMSQT Score Report

Your PSAT/NMSQT score report is a treasure trove of information! It goes beyond just a number. Here's how to use it to your advantage:

• Shine a Light on Your Strengths: Reviewing your score report can help you identify areas where you excel. This is a great confidence booster and helps you recognize your academic skills.
• Target for Improvement: The report also highlights areas where you might want to invest some extra study time. This allows you to create a focused study plan and improve your overall score next time.
• Explore Your Future: Your score report can spark career exploration! It might provide a sample of in-demand careers in your state based on your strengths. This is a starting point to discover exciting career paths that align with your interests.
• Dive Deeper: Take the BigFuture Career Quiz (accessible through a QR code) to match your interests and skills with potential careers. Explore a massive database of over 1,000 careers, college profiles, and scholarships – all designed to help you plan your future education and career path.
• Benchmark Yourself: Depending on your location, your score report might offer detailed comparisons with other students. This lets you see how you stack up against peers in your school, district, state, or even nationally.
• Strengthen Your Skills: The "Knowledge and Skills" section dives deeper into your strengths and areas for improvement. This section leverages the Skills Insight tool, highlighting typical skills demonstrated by students at your level and offering examples of questions you're likely to answer correctly.

By delving into your score report, you can gain valuable insights, celebrate your strengths, and build a solid foundation for your academic and career journey!