What is the qualifying score for National Merit Scholarship?
221
National Merit Semifinalists Selection Index Scores
| State | Selection Index |
|---|---|
| California | 221 |
| Colorado | 217 |
| Connecticut | 220 |
| Delaware | 220 |
What percentile do you need on PSAT for National Merit?
If you’re much stronger in math than in writing, then you could aim for a perfect 38 on Math and a little lower on Writing and Language. Overall, you need to get a section score in the 30s for each section on the PSAT to compete for National Merit.
How is National Merit qualifying score calculated?
The Selection Index is double the sum of your Reading, Writing and Language, and Math Test Scores. For example, a student with scores of 34, 35, and 36 would have a Selection Index of (34+35+36)x2 = 210. Most students remember their section scores (160–760) rather than their 8–38 test scores.
Is 1460 a good PSAT score?
The data above tells us that the top 1% of test takers—about 16,000 juniors—scored between 1460 and 1520. Contrary to what many believe, you do not need a perfect PSAT score to get into the 99th percentile.
Does your PSAT score qualify for National Merit?
The Selection Index has a total score range of 48-228. Each state has a slightly different qualifying score for semifinalists, ranging from 209 to 222. This means you’ll need, at minimum, a 35 test score on each of the three sections to be eligible for National Merit consideration.
How do you convert PSAT scores to national merit?
To determine who qualifies for National Merit, NMSC uses a scale called the Selection Index. To get this, NMSC adds your Math, Reading, and Writing section scores, which each fall between 8 and 38, and then multiplies that sum by 2. Thus, the PSAT NMSC Selection Index ranges from 48 to 228.