I missed the PSAT – can I make it up?

The answer to that question is yes, you absolutely can! Many people don’t realize that if they miss the PSAT due to illness, emergency, or other extenuating circumstances, they still have a chance to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship.

The National Merit Scholarship is a highly prestigious $2,500 scholarship awarded to 2,500 students in the US each year. The PSAT (also known as the NMSQT, National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is used as a preliminary clincher in determining who qualifies for the test. If a high school junior takes the PSAT and scores above the cutoff score for her state, she has a chance to receive the scholarship. Even being a semifinalist or finalist can open doors in terms of other scholarships and college admissions.

Due to the importance of the test, it is important for parents and students to know what their options are if they fail the test. According to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) website:

The student or a school official must
write to NMSC ASAP after the PSAT/NMSQT administration to inquire about procedures for entering NMSC competitions via alternate tests. The sooner the NMSC receives the written application, the better the student’s chances of meeting the alternative entrance requirements. To be considered, an application must be postmarked
no later than March 1 after the missed PSAT/NMSQT administration. NMSC will provide alternative entry materials, including an entry form that requires a school official’s signature.

Generally speaking, the “alternate test” simply uses a test score from an SAT instead of the PSAT.

The PSAT is often overlooked by parents and students alike, a big mistake. Its value is irrefutable, and any high school student who has failed the test should immediately consult with school counselors and NMSC officials to coordinate alternative tests. Remember: the PSAT is arguably just as important as the SAT! Treat it like one and prepare thoroughly with people who know everything there is to know about the test!