Fall 2024
PSAT/NMSQT
information
Test-taking
advice and tips
NF1S0001
L MERIT
Program
cholarship Corporation
Student
Guide
Look inside for:
TO ENTER THE 2026 NATIONA
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM:
Take the Preliminary SAT/National
Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test
(PSAT/NMSQT
®
) in fall 2024
Meet other entry requirements
(see inside)
www.nationalmerit.org
National Merit
®
Scholarship
conducted by National Merit S
ii
2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
About College Board
College Board reaches more than 7 million students a year, helping them navigate the path
from high school to college and career. Our not-for-prot membership organization was
founded more than 120 years ago. We pioneered programs like the SAT
®
and AP
®
to expand
opportunities for students and help them develop the skills they need. Our BigFuture
®
program
helps students plan for college, pay for college, and explore careers. Learn more at cb.org.
About National Merit Scholarship
Corporation (NMSC)
NMSC
®
is an independent, not-for-prot organization that operates without government
assistance. NMSC conducts the National Merit
®
Scholarship Program, an annual academic
competition for recognition and college scholarships. The PSAT/NMSQT
®
is the screening test
for high school students who wish to participate in the National Merit Scholarship Program.
If you have questions about any aspect of the National Merit Scholarship Program, including
student participation requirements, the selection process, and awards oered, see the NMSC
section of this publication.
The PSAT/NMSQT
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is cosponsored
by College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Contact customer service if you
have suggestions, questions, or comments about exam setup, administration, or score reports.
If you wish to report test administration irregularities, you must notify the test coordinator or
the PSAT/NMSQT oce immediately.
PSAT/NMSQT Customer Service
You can reach us from 8 a.m. (9 a.m. mid-June to September) to 7 p.m. ET, Monday to Friday.
PHONE: 866-433-7728
INTERNATIONAL: +1-212-713-8105
EMAIL: psathelp@info.collegeboard.org
© 2024 College Board. College Board, Advanced Placement, AP, BigFuture, CLEP, SAT and the acorn logo are registered
trademarks of College Board. AP Potential, Bluebook, Connections, and PSAT are trademarks owned by College Board.
PSAT/NMSQT is a registered trademark of College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation. NMSC, National
Merit, and the corporate “Lamp of Learning” logo are federally registered service marks of National Merit Scholarship
Corporation. All other marks are the property of their respective owners. Visit College Board on the web: collegeboard.org.
Khan Academy is a registered trademark in the United States and other jurisdictions. 2425-PN-079
1
2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Contents
College Board
2 Test-Taking Information
2 Using This Guide
2 How the PSAT/NMSQT Is Organized
3 Bluebook Digital Testing
4 Before You Test
5 Away Students
5 Special Considerations
6 PSAT/NMSQT Test Dates and Fee
6 Testing Devices
6 If You Need Testing Accommodations
7 Privacy Policies
7 Telemarketing Scams
8 Test Question Inquiries
8 Additional Information on the SAT Suite of
Assessments
8 Prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT
10 What the Reading and Writing Section Is Like
11 What the Math Section Is Like
12 Information You’ll Need on Test Day for Digital
Testing
12 Test Day Items
12 Test Day Steps
13 Submitting Your Answers
14 After the Test
14 How the PSAT/NMSQT Is Scored
14 Retesting
15 BigFuture School and Connections
17 Getting Your Scores
17 Explore Career Options
18 College Board National Recognition Program
18 Scholarship Programs
19 PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules
19 Introduction
19 Section 1. Requirements for the PSAT/NMSQT
21 Section 2. Prohibited Items
21 Section 3. Prohibited Behaviors
22 Section 4. Score Cancellation and Disciplinary
Measures
24 Section 5. Privacy
25 Section 6. Miscellaneous
27 Section 7. Policies and Requirements
27 Section 8. Intellectual Property Rights
28 Section 9. ARBITRATION OF DISPUTES AND
CLASS ACTION WAIVER
29 Section 10. Venue and Waiver of Jury Trial
30 Section 11. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY
30 Section 12. Disclaimer of Warranties
30 Section 13. Severability
30 Section 14. Restricted Registrations
30 Section 15. Accessibility of These Terms and
Conditions
National Merit
Scholarship Corporation
31 Overview
32 Steps in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship
Competition
33 2026 Competition Begins in 2024
33 Entry Requirements
34 When to Take the Test
35 Eligibility Verication
36 Program Recognition
36 PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index
36 Commended Students
36 Seminalists
37 Finalists
37 Choosing Scholarship Winners
38 Types of Scholarships
38 National Merit $2500 Scholarships
39 Corporate-sponsored Scholarships
39 College-sponsored Merit Scholarships
40 Scholarship Sponsors
40 Corporations, Business Organizations,
and Individual Donors
48 Colleges and Universities
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Test-Taking Information Using This Guide
Test-Taking Information
Using This Guide
Taking the PSAT/NMSQT
®
is a great way to nd out how prepared you are for college and
career. The PSAT/NMSQT is the qualifying test for entry to the National Merit
®
Scholarship
Program (described in the second part of this guide). The test also connects you to College
Board programs and services that can propel you to opportunities you’ve earned. We’ve
created this guide to help you:
Become familiar with the test and the Bluebook™ testing application so you know what
to expect on test day.
Learn about the structure of the test, how to prepare for it, and how it is scored.
Be aware of what you need to know about taking this test and provide you with an opportunity
to review the PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules (which you can preview later in this guide).
You will be required to review and agree to the Testing Rules in Bluebook before testing.
IMPORTANT: You will be bound by the Testing Rules as they exist on test day. Prior to testing you
must review any updates to these Testing Rules, which are available at cb.org/pn-rules.
How the PSAT/NMSQT Is Organized
The PSAT/NMSQT measures the knowledge and skills that you are learning in school
and that matter most for college and career readiness. There are two sections of the
PSAT/NMSQT—(1) Reading and Writing and (2) Math.
The PSAT/NMSQT, and all tests in the SAT
®
Suite of Assessments, use multistage adaptive
testing. Each test section (Reading and Writing, Math) is divided into 2 equal-length,
separately timed parts, called modules. You answer a set of questions in the rst module
before moving on to the next. The questions that you are given in the second module depend
on how you performed on the rst module.
This type of adaptive testing allows for a much shorter, but just as reliable, assessment that
delivers accurate scores more eciently.
The test breaks down like this:
Section Time Allotted (min.) Number of Questions
Reading and Writing 64 54
Math 70 44
The PSAT/NMSQT follows the same timing as all other tests in the SAT Suite.
You must complete all sections of the test based on your approved timing, and get to the
Congratulations screen to conrm that your answers were submitted. If you leave before
dismissal, your test may be considered incomplete and your scores may be ineligible for
scholarship consideration or may be subject to cancellation. Do not close your laptop lid
or cover or turn o your tablet screen at any point until you are dismissed.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Test-Taking Information Bluebook Digital Testing
Bluebook Digital Testing
Bluebook is our custom-built application you’ll use to take the PSAT/NMSQT. Ask your
school how to download and access Bluebook. They will provide you with a sign-in ticket.
You may be able to familiarize yourself with key aspects of the app before the test during your
school’s digital readiness activities. For more information about digital readiness, please see
Before You Test on page 4.
If you want to preview Bluebook, you can download the application to your personal device.
Bluebook Tools
Bluebook includes plenty of test tools. Here are some examples:
Mark for review: You can ag and return to any question within a given test module that
you want to come back to later.
Testing timer: A clock counts down the time remaining in each module. You can hide the
timer, and you get an alert when 5 minutes remain in the module. When there are only
5 minutes remaining, the clock can no longer be hidden.
Calculator: A built-in Desmos graphing calculator is available for the entire Math section.
The calculator is provided in the Bluebook practice test to allow you to practice with it before
the test. (You can also bring your own acceptable calculator; please see psat.org/calculator
for complete information.)
Line reader: Use this tool to focus as you read test content.
Reference sheet: On the Math section, you have access to a list of common formulas.
Highlights & Notes: On non-math questions, you can highlight any part of a passage and
leave yourself a note. You can change the highlight color, add an underline, make a note,
or delete the highlight.
Option eliminator: If you think an answer option is wrong, you can cross it out.
Digital Testing Disruptions
An internet connection is required to start the test, but Bluebook will keep running even if
your connection drops momentarily. At the end of the test, if you’re still oine, work with
your school to make sure your answers are submitted once internet access resumes. If your
device battery runs down, you can simply plug in, restart your device, and pick up where you
left o—all your work will be saved, and you won’t lose testing time.
If the app crashes during your exam, just relaunch it and hit Resume Testing. Your proctor
will aprove your re-entry, and you’ll return to the question you were on. The testing timer will
be paused until you resume testing.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Before You Test
Before You Test
If you plan to take the PSAT/NMSQT at the school you normally attend, your school or
district will register you and let you know if you need to bring your own or a school-issued
device or if one will be provided for you on test day. School sta will also provide you with
sign-in information that is unique to you.
Before you test, sta at your school may hold a digital readiness check. In this session, you’ll
sign in to Bluebook with a sign-in ticket that’s unique to you, run a quick device check,
complete exam setup, and try out a test preview. During exam setup, which will happen either
during the digital readiness check or right before the test, you’ll have the chance to conrm
your personal information and you’ll be required to review and agree to the PSAT/NMSQT
Testing Rules. You should review the Testing Rules beforehand. (See PSAT/NMSQT Testing
Rules on page 19.) It’s important to conrm your personal information is correct after you
log in to the testing application with your sign-in ticket. If your information is incorrect or you
received someone else’s sign-in ticket, tell school sta immediately.
During exam setup, you’ll also have the opportunity to answer questions about yourself, your
educational experience, and your plans for after you graduate high school. All questions are
optional. If any of your answers dier from answers you have given us on previous in-school
tests, we’ll use your latest information.
College Board may use the information you provide:
To verify your identity;
To administer the test, including with any necessary third parties;
To provide your score information;
To maintain the fairness and validity of our tests;
For test security purposes;
For test accommodations purposes;
On a de-identied basis, for psychometric and educational research purposes, to
demonstrate the eectiveness of our programs and services, and to maintain, develop,
support, improve, and diagnose our services and applications;
To disclose as required by law, when we believe in good faith that it’s necessary to protect
our rights, protect an individual’s safety or the safety of others, investigate fraud, or
respond to a government request.
Your high school, school district, and state may receive your responses. Institutions that
receive your information are required to keep it condential and to follow College Board
guidelines for using this information.
College Board sends information you provide to our cosponsor, National Merit Scholarship
Corporation (NMSC
®
), for it to consider your eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship
Program (see the second part of this guide).
If you choose to use the BigFuture
®
School mobile application, we’ll use your information
to provide you with educational information and insights about college and career options.
If you opt in to Connections™, we’ll use your information to deliver content from nonprot
colleges and universities, nonprot scholarship providers, and government agencies running
educational programs that may be a good t for you. Note: your school, district, or state may
choose to not provide access to Connections for its students.
More information about the BigFuture School app and Connections can be found
in BigFuture School and Connections on page 15.
See the PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules on page 19 for more information on use and
disclosure of the information you may choose to provide.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Before You Test Away Students
Away Students
If you are a homeschooled student or plan to take the PSAT/NMSQT at a school that’s
dierent from the school you attend, you’ll need to complete the following steps before the
deadline:
Use our in-school assessment search tool to nd a testing institution near you.
Reach out to sta at the testing institution 4 weeks before the testing window begins to
request to be included in their registration le. (Check the administering school district
website for applicable deadlines. Some districts may need this step completed earlier.)
Provide the following information for registration:
First and last name.
Date of birth.
Name/AI code for the school you normally attend (if you’re homeschooled, you’ll only
need to share that you are homeschooled). Ask your school counselor if you do not
know your AI code.
Gender.
Your Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) number if you are approved to test
with accommodations.
Conrm whether the testing institution will provide you with a device, or if you need to
bring a testing device on test day.
If you would like to nd out more about testing at a school you do not normally attend, visit
our Homeschooled and Away Students page.
IMPORTANT: Away Students must bring a valid photo ID with them for check-in on test day.
Please see the PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules on page 19 for information about acceptable photo
identication.
Special Considerations
Here are some situations you may need to prepare for.
If you know in advance that you cannot take the test when your school oers it: Tell your
counselor as soon as possible that you have a conict, such as a religious observance. You
may be able to take the test later in the month (during the testing window, which is dened
as the period of time the test can be administered at your school) or as an Away Student
(see previous section) at a nearby school that has selected a dierent test date. If you test
at another school, be sure to take your school code and an acceptable photo ID with you.
You’ll need to keep your ID with you at all times, especially if you leave the testing room.
(See the PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules on page 19 for information about acceptable photo
identication.)
If you are homeschooled and want to take the PSAT/NMSQT: Make arrangements in
advance with your local school or another nearby school that is administering the test.
Contact PSAT/NMSQT Customer Service (see page ii) if you need help nding a school in
your area that’s giving the test. Visit our Homeschooled and Away Students page for more
information.
You missed the test but want to enter the National Merit Scholarship Program:
For information about another route of entry to the National Merit Scholarship Program,
see Unable to Take the PSAT/NMSQT? on page 35.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Before You Test PSAT/NMSQT Test Dates and Fee
PSAT/NMSQT Test Dates and Fee
The PSAT/NMSQT testing window is October 1–31, 2024. Ask your counselor or principal
when you will test. While dierent students from your school may test on dierent days, each
student is only allowed to take the test once during a testing window, unless an irregularity
occurs that warrants a retest.
The fee for the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT is $18, but you might not have to pay it—some districts
and schools cover all or part of the cost for their students. Schools sometimes charge an
additional fee for administrative costs.
Testing Devices
Most schools participating in the PSAT/NMSQT will use school-managed devices for
testing. In those cases, the school sta will have downloaded Bluebook and made sure that
the testing device is charged and ready for testing. It is good practice for you to review your
device’s battery life and notify sta if it’s not fully charged.
If your school allows you to test on a personal device, you must download the exam app
onto your device before testing. (A personal device is one that you bring for your use in
testing and that is not provided by your school. Personal Chromebooks cannot be used for
testing.) Your device must also be able to connect to Wi-Fi and be charged enough to stay
on for roughly 3 hours. We recommend you bring a power cord or portable charger, but we
can’t guarantee you’ll have access to an outlet. You’re permitted to bring an external mouse
for your device and an external keyboard if your device is a tablet. You can’t use detachable
device privacy screens. All other applications and programs must be closed during the test.
If you are bringing a personal device for testing, visit bluebook.collegeboard.org/students/
approved-devices for more information about device requirements.
If You Need Testing Accommodations
If you have a disability that requires accommodations such as a screen reader, extra breaks, or
permission to test blood sugar, be sure to have your school request College Board approval well
in advance of the test date you need the accommodations for. Requests for accommodations are
handled by the College Board SSD oce. If you’re already approved for accommodations on
College Board tests, you don’t need to submit a new accommodations request for the digital tests.
IMPORTANT: Supports such as dictionaries, translated test directions, and extended time are
available for non-English procient or limited-English procient English learners. If you need
English learner (EL) support, work with your school to help ensure it will be there on test day. Visit
Taking the PSAT 8/9, PSAT 10, and PSAT/NMSQT with Accommodations for more information.
When considering accommodations, note the following:
Work with your school’s SSD coordinator or counselor for accommodations. Your SSD
coordinator or other appropriate school sta can help determine what accommodations
are best for you and submit a request online.
If you want to request accommodations without your school, download and submit a Student
Eligibility Form from accommodations.collegeboard.org/request-accommodations/
request/without-the-school.
Once approved for accommodations, with some exceptions, you remain approved and do
not have to apply again when taking another College Board test.
If you move to a new school after you’ve been approved for accommodations, provide
them with a copy of your eligibility letter. Your new school will need to conrm your
continued eligibility.
If you’re approved for extended time for math, you’ll get it just for math; but if you’re
approved for extended time for reading, you’ll get it for the whole test.
accommodations.collegeboard.org/r
accommodations/request/without-the-s
<<link to: https://accommodations.c
org/request-accommodations/request/
the-school>>
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Before You Test Privacy Policies
Talk to your SSD coordinator to conrm what accommodations you’re approved for and
any additional information you need for testing. If you are interested in opting out of your
accommodations for testing, you’ll need to tell your test coordinator at least 1 week ahead
of test day. You may only opt out of all your accommodations and this choice will only
apply for this test administration.
Bring your SSD eligibility letter with you on test day in case there are any questions.
If you’re interested in participating in the National Merit Scholarship Program, ensure
you receive your approved accommodations in time to test. If you won’t receive them
in time, your test should be rescheduled. If you take the test without your approved
accommodations, your test coordinator should complete an Irregularity Report. You may
need to retest. If you do not take the test and wish to enter the National Merit Scholarship
Program, see Unable to Take the PSAT/NMSQT? on page 35.
Accommodations and Digital Testing
Many accommodations are provided in Bluebook. For example, if you’re approved for
extended time, you’ll receive a digital exam enabled with your approved amount of extended
time per section.
Additionally, if you’re approved for a human reader, braille, or a scribe, you’ll be approved to
test with a screen reader or dictation. If you can’t use the digital accommodation (e.g., screen
reader), your SSD coordinator should submit an accommodations request for the needed
accommodation by the SSD deadline. Visit our website for more information about digital
accommodations at cb.org/digital-accommodations.
Some accommodations dier for digital testing because of features available in Bluebook.
For example, if approved for large-print test books, you won’t need separate exam materials.
You can take the digital exam with an increased font size by zooming in to enlarge the
content as needed.
Accommodations that don’t involve assistive technology (AT) or a change to exam timing
or breaks won’t require a special format of the digital exam. Examples of these types of
accommodations include permission for small-group testing, food/drink/medication, and
permission to test blood sugar.
The PSAT/NMSQT is accessible to students approved to use AT. You’ll need to open and start the
AT device or software before you open Bluebook for practice and for testing. On test day, adjust
any necessary settings before you start to check in for the digital test. The app has extensive
help content to answer your questions about setup, navigation, and tools to help you access test
content. For more information, visit our Accommodations and Assistive Technology page.
IMPORTANT: It is very helpful to practice taking a digital test with the technology you plan to use to
test. Please see Prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT on page 8 for more information about practice.
Privacy Policies
College Board recognizes the importance of protecting your privacy. Please review
our privacy policies at collegeboard.org/privacy-center (“Privacy Policies”) and the
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules on page 19 to understand our collection, use, and disclosure
of your personally identiable information.
Telemarketing Scams
We sometimes get reports of phone scams when callers posing as employees of College
Board or National Merit Scholarship Corporation try to sell test preparation products or
request sensitive, personally identifying information, such as credit card and Social Security
numbers. College Board and NMSC do not make unsolicited phone calls or send emails
to students or families requesting this type of information. This type of activity, known as
telemarketing fraud, is a crime and should be reported to local law enforcement.
REMINDER:
All students must stay
for the entire test. If you
have accommodations
that involve additional
timing, you must stay for
your approved amount of
extended time. At the end
of the test, wait until you
get conrmation that your
answers have submitted
before closing the lid to your
laptop, turning o your tablet
screen, closing Bluebook, or
shutting down your device.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT
Test Question Inquiries
If you nd what you consider to be an error or an ambiguity in a test question, tell the proctor
immediately after the test. You also have the option to complete the SAT Test Questions Error
or Ambiguity form if you prefer or if testing is already over.
In your inquiry, provide your name and email address, the date you took the PSAT/NMSQT,
the name and address of the school where you took the test, the test section and module, the test
question (as well as you can remember), and an explanation of your concern about the question.
College Board will send you a response after your inquiry has been reviewed thoroughly
by subject-matter specialists. If you submit a report for what you consider to be an error or
an ambiguity in a test question, you understand that College Board may need to hold your
PSAT/NMSQT score for review. As a result, your score may not be available by the published
release date for your administration.
Additional Information on the
SAT Suite of Assessments
Procedures to Ensure Fairness and Equity
College Board combats any bias in our tests with our review processes. Fairness reviewers
help ensure that test materials are accessible to all students, have no oensive or insensitive
content, and aren’t made easier or harder by factors outside the subject being measured.
You can download a copy of the Assessment Framework for the Digital SAT Suite to learn
about fairness on the tests.
Prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT
You may have an opportunity to practice for the PSAT/NMSQT before testing as part of your
school’s digital readiness activities. The school where you’re testing will register you and
provide sign-in credentials for Bluebook during these activities.
Here are some ways to prepare:
Test Preview
To prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT, you’ll have access to a test preview within Bluebook. This
tool helps you:
Get familiar with functions in the app.
See the structure of the test.
Try a small sample of Reading and Writing and Math questions to familiarize yourself
with the kinds of questions you’ll encounter on test day and with how to properly enter
your answers.
Try all the testing tools and experience how the digital tests work with any assistive
technology you’re approved to use.
Full-Length Adaptive Digital PSAT/NMSQT Practice Tests
Taking a full-length practice test for the PSAT/NMSQT will let you experience digital testing
and familiarize yourself with test content, including the types of questions you’ll answer and
the exam tools you’ll use to take the test. You can access practice tests in Bluebook. If your
school does not run a full-length practice session during the digital readiness check, you can
download Bluebook and sign in using the credentials provided by your school. If you’ll be
using a personal device for testing, you can also make sure your testing device supports the
app and is ready to use for testing.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT
Both sections on the PSAT/NMSQT, (1) Reading and Writing and (2) Math, have 2 modules.
Depending on how you answer the questions in the rst module, you’ll be routed to a second
module, which has a dierent mix of diculty levels. The mix of questions in the second module
is, on average, either of higher diculty or of lower diculty than the mix in the rst module.
Taking a practice test in Bluebook helps you gain experience and comfort with the way in which
you will be assessed on test day. The full-length practice tests will also give you a score.
1. Download the Bluebook app at bluebook.app.collegeboard.org.
2. Go to Practice and Prepare on the Bluebook homepage, and select Full-Length
Practice. (You will need the sign-in credentials provided by your school to access
full-length practice.)
3. After you’ve nished the practice test in Bluebook, go to My Practice at
mypractice.collegeboard.org and sign in with the same credentials provided by
your school to view your score results and to review your practice exam questions,
answers, and their explanations.
Paper-Based Practice Tests
College Board provides downloadable paper versions of practice tests for those students who
need to test with paper-based accommodations on test day. Because they are nonadaptive—
please see the description of what adaptive testing is in How the PSAT/NMSQT Is Organized
on page 2—these paper versions of the tests are longer and require more questions
to assess your knowledge and skills. To practice on paper, you’ll need to print these
downloadable versions of the practice test or ask your counselor to help you obtain the test.
Ocial Digital SAT Prep on Khan Academy
The digital SAT course content on Khan Academy
®
includes videos, articles, and
worked examples designed to help you understand and experience the digital SAT Suite.
Visit khanacademy.org/sat.
For more information on practice for the PSAT/NMSQT, go to psat.org/practice.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT What the Reading and Writing Section Is Like
READING AND WRITING SECTION CONTENT DOMAINS AND QUESTION DISTRIBUTION
Content
Domain
Domain
Description
Skill/Knowledge
Testing Points
Question
Distribution
Craft and Structure Measures the comprehension, vocabulary, analysis,
synthesis, and reasoning skills and knowledge needed
to understand and use high-utility words and phrases in
context, evaluate texts rhetorically, and make connections
between topically related texts
Words in Context; Text
Structure and Purpose;
Cross-Text Connections
13–15
questions
Information and Ideas Measures comprehension, analysis, and reasoning
skills and knowledge and the ability to locate, interpret,
evaluate, and integrate information and ideas from texts
and informational graphics (tables, bar graphs, and
line graphs)
Central Ideas and Details;
Command of Evidence
(Textual, Quantitative);
Inferences
12–14
questions
Standard English
Conventions
Measures the ability to edit texts to conform to core
conventions of Standard English sentence structure,
usage, and punctuation
Boundaries; Form,
Structure, and Sense
11–15
questions
Expression of Ideas Measures the ability to revise texts to improve the
eectiveness of written expression and to meet specic
rhetorical goals
Rhetorical Synthesis;
Transitions
8–12
questions
These specications are for the adaptive version of the digital test, which most students will take. Students approved for certain
testing accommodations, such as a human reader, raised line drawings, or paper test forms, will test using a nonadaptive version
of the digital PSAT/NMSQT. This nonadaptive version has a slightly higher number of test questions in each module to account for
the fact that the test is not adaptive. Practice for this nonadaptive version of the test is also available in Bluebook. You can learn
more about nonadaptive test specications in Appendix E of the Assessment Framework for the Digital SAT Suite.
What the Reading and Writing Section Is Like
The Reading and Writing section of the PSAT/NMSQT is designed to measure your success
with building critical college and career readiness in literacy. In this section, you’ll answer
multiple-choice questions requiring you to read, comprehend, and use information and
ideas in texts; analyze the craft and structure of texts; revise texts to improve the rhetorical
expression of ideas; and edit texts to follow core conventions of Standard English.
Passages in this section, which serve as the basis for answering test questions, represent
the subject areas of literature, history/social studies, the humanities, and science. There is
a single question per passage.
Select questions in this section are accompanied by an informational graphic.
Reading and Writing Section Overview
Test length:
1st module: 25 operational questions
and 2 pretest questions
2nd module: 25 operational questions
and 2 pretest questions
Total: 54 questions
Time per module:
1st module: 32 minutes
2nd module: 32 minutes
Total: 64 minutes
(1.19 minutes per question)
Questions in the Reading and Writing section represent 1 of 4 content domains, shown in
the table that follows. To help you budget your time, questions that test similar skills and
knowledge are grouped together and arranged from easiest to hardest. Pretest questions don’t
count toward your score.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT What the Math Section Is Like
What the Math Section Is Like
The Math section of the PSAT/NMSQT is designed to measure your success with building
critical college and career readiness knowledge and skills in math. It focuses on key
elements of algebra, advanced math, problem-solving and data analysis, and geometry and
trigonometry. Over the course of the Math section, you’ll answer multiple-choice and student-
produced response questions that measure your uency with, understanding of, and ability
to apply the math concepts, skills, and practices that are most essential.
Approximately 30% of Math questions are set in context. These in-context “word” questions
require you to consider a science, social studies, or real-world scenario and apply your math skills
and knowledge, along with an understanding of the context, to determine the answer to each.
Select questions in this section are accompanied by an informational graphic.
MATH SECTION CONTENT DOMAINS AND QUESTION DISTRIBUTION
Content Domain Domain Description Skill/Knowledge Testing Points
Question
Distribution
Algebra Measures the ability to analyze, uently
solve, and create linear equations and
inequalities as well as analyze and uently
solve equations and systems of equations
using multiple techniques
Linear equations in 1 variable; Linear
equations in 2 variables; Linear functions;
Systems of 2 linear equations in 2
variables; Linear inequalities in 1 or 2
variables
13–15 questions
Advanced Math Measures skills and knowledge central
for progression to more advanced math
courses, including demonstrating an
understanding of absolute value, quadratic,
exponential, polynomial, rational, radical,
and other nonlinear equations
Equivalent expressions; Nonlinear
equations in 1 variable and systems
of equations in 2 variables; Nonlinear
functions
12–14 questions
Problem-Solving
and Data Analysis
Measures the ability to apply quantitative
reasoning about ratios, rates, and
proportional relationships; understand and
apply unit rate; and analyze and interpret
1- and 2-variable data
Ratios, rates, proportional relationships,
and units; Percentages; 1-variable data:
distributions and measures of center
and spread; 2-variable data: models and
scatterplots; Probability and conditional
probability; Inference from sample statistics
7–9 questions
Geometry and
Trigonometry
Measures the ability to solve problems that
focus on area and volume; lines, angles,
triangles, and trigonometry
Area and volume; Lines, angles, and
triangles, including right triangles and
right triangle trigonometry
4–6 questions
These specications are for the adaptive version of the digital test, which most students will take. Students approved for certain
testing accommodations, such as a human reader, raised line drawings, or paper test forms, will test using a nonadaptive version
of the digital PSAT/NMSQT. This nonadaptive version has a slightly higher number of test questions in each module to account for
the fact that the test is not adaptive. Practice for this nonadaptive version of the test is also available in Bluebook. You can learn
more about nonadaptive test specications in Appendix E of the Assessment Framework for the Digital SAT Suite.
Math Section Overview
Test length:
1st module: 20 operational questions
and 2 pretest questions
2nd module: 20 operational questions
and 2 pretest questions
Total: 44 questions
Time per module:
1st module: 35 minutes
2nd module: 35 minutes
Total: 70 minutes
(1.59 minutes per question)
Questions from all 4 content domains appear in each test module. Across each module,
questions are arranged from easiest to hardest, allowing you to have the best opportunity to
demonstrate what you know and can do. Pretest questions don’t count toward your score.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Information You’ll Need on Test Day for Digital Testing Test Day Items
Information You’ll Need on
Test Day for Digital Testing
Be prepared for digital testing by making sure you bring only what you need for the test.
You’ll have your testing device, but won’t be able to use or access any other personal
electronic devices, such as a mobile phone or wearable technology, during the test. Review
the other important guidelines in this section to make sure you understand the policies that
cover your PSAT/NMSQT testing experience.
This section also includes information about test day technical support.
Test Day Items
See Section 1 of the PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules on page 19 for full requirements for
taking the PSAT/NMSQT.
The following items are required for taking the PSAT/NMSQT:
A fully charged, acceptable testing device with Bluebook already downloaded and exam
setup complete.
A pen or pencil for scratch work.
A valid photo ID for check-in if testing as an Away Student.
Though not required, consider bringing:
Snacks and drinks (which must be under your desk during testing).
An acceptable calculator for the Math section (if you prefer using a handheld calculator to
using the embedded Desmos calculator in Bluebook). Please see psat.org/calculator for
full list.
Extra batteries, a power cord, and backup calculator.
Test Day Steps
This section summarizes important guidelines for digital testing. See Section 1 of the
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules on page 19 to make sure you cover all the steps to
successfully prepare to take the PSAT/NMSQT.
If you are allowed to bring your own or a school-issued device, plan ahead and bring
equipment that’s in good working order with enough battery power to last for about
3 hours. Your testing device must be able to connect to Wi-Fi, and you may need to
update your operating system to support the digital test. Testing sta might not have
extra batteries or calculators.
If you are allowed to bring your own device, you need to download the Bluebook app
from bluebook.app.collegeboard.org.
If you’re testing with extended time, bring a power cord; your testing site should provide
an outlet for recharging if needed.
During exam setup, which will take place as either part of your school’s digital readiness
check or right before the test, you’ll be required to review and agree to the Testing Rules.
As part of exam setup, you’ll have the option to provide additional information about
yourself. You may also have the opportunity to provide a mobile number to access the
BigFuture School mobile application, where you can receive scores and personalized
college and career information.
On test day, you’ll follow instructions to connect to Wi-Fi, complete exam check-in on
your testing device, and type a brief statement saying that you agree to follow all rules
for the exam.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Information You’ll Need on Test Day for Digital Testing Submitting Your Answers
During testing:
If you are wearing a brimmed cap, store it under your desk. If you are wearing a
hooded shirt or jacket, remove your hood and keep it o during testing.
Store any snacks or drinks you bring under your desk. You may only eat snacks
during breaks. The testing sta will tell you where you can go to have your snack.
You must remain in the testing site for the duration of the test. If you leave before
you’re dismissed, your scores are subject to cancellation.
Keep your laptop open or your tablet uncovered and on during the entire duration of
testing. Closing your laptop lid or covering your device may result in a loss of your
responses.
Submitting Your Answers
Do not close the lid to your laptop, turn o your tablet screen, close Bluebook, or shut down
your device until you see the Congratulations screen like the one below indicating that your
answers have been submitted and you are ocially dismissed from testing.
In the event of an internet disruption at the end of the test, or another issue that keeps you
from submitting your answers, you’ll need to follow instructions provided by your school to
complete submission. This may include waiting until the internet is back online to leave the
testing room, or returning later with your testing device once the internet service resumes.
If answers aren’t received by the end of the submission period, College Board may cancel
your scores or report them for guidance purposes only.
The Congratulations screen indicates
your answers have been submitted.
Do not close the lid of your laptop, turn o your tablet screen,
close Bluebook, or shut down your device until you see this screen.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
After the Test How the PSAT/NMSQT Is Scored
After the Test
Once you’ve taken the PSAT/NMSQT, you’ll be ready for the next step of accessing your
scores, understanding them, and gauging your progress. Use the information in this section
to help you make the most of your scores. You can also start exploring other tools that
College Board oers to help you plan for the future.
How the PSAT/NMSQT Is Scored
The SAT Suite uses adaptive test design with item response theory (IRT) pattern scoring.
Adaptive testing allows for fewer questions, in less time, than traditional paper tests. Pattern
scoring allows for precise measurement of students’ knowledge and skills. Students’ scores
are determined by whether they answer questions right or wrong, and by considering
attributes of the questions, including diculty level, the questions’ ability to dierentiate
between students with various levels of content knowledge, and the probability that a student
is guessing based on their pattern of responses. Every test includes a standardized set of
question types and measures the same content domains, so all students have equitable
opportunity to demonstrate their strengths. For most students who are trying their best on
every question, it is better to guess than leave a question blank, especially if the student can
eliminate one or two answer options before guessing.
PSAT/NMSQT Score Reported Details Score Range
Section Scores (2) Reading and Writing (RW)
Math (M)
160–760
160–760
Total Score Sum of the 2 section scores 320–1520
Selection Index Score 2RW + M
10
48–228
Retesting
If you encounter an issue on test day that makes you want to consider canceling your score,
you may be able to work with your school to retest later in the testing window. (For more
information on retesting, please see 6(a) Retest in the Testing Rules later in this guide.)
Contact your school’s test coordinator immediately to report any issues you encountered on
test day.
If you do not want your PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index score used for participation
in the National Merit Scholarship Program, you must contact NMSC immediately.
See Removing Your Score from NMSC Consideration on page 35 for further details. For more
information on Selection Index scores, see PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index on page 36.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
After the Test BigFuture School and Connections
BigFuture School and Connections
The Power to Plan for Your Future the Moment
You Get Your PSAT/NMSQT Scores
BigFuture School gives you control over your college and career planning. When you take the
PSAT/NMSQT, you may have an opportunity to access BigFuture School and:
quickly view your PSAT/NMSQT scores
explore customized messages about planning for a career and college, and paying for college
All of this is available to you on the BigFuture School mobile application if you are 13 and older
and test in the U.S., and decide to download and authenticate your personalized access to the
app. If you share your mobile number with us when you take the test, we’ll text you a link to
download the app, send you a code you’ll use to sign in, and let you know when your scores are
ready after you complete the test. We won’t use your phone number for any other reason.
Read more about the BigFuture School mobile application at privacy.collegeboard.org/
program-specic-privacy-policies/bigfuture-school-app-privacy-policy.
Get Connected to Colleges, Scholarships, and More
As you think about college planning, you can opt in to Connections, where College Board
shares messages from nonprot colleges, scholarship providers, and government agencies
running educational programs (plural) that are interested in students like you. If you’re
interested in one of the colleges or organizations we tell you about, you decide if and when to
contact them directly.
We’ll deliver this content via the BigFuture School app, email, and postal mail (if you choose
to download BigFuture School, and/or provide your email and/or address when you take the
PSAT/NMSQT or later in the BigFuture School mobile app, all of which is optional).
We use the information you and your state, district, or school provide as part of the
PSAT/NMSQT, any information you share in BigFuture School, your educational and career
interests and preferences shared in BigFuture School, and score ranges on any of your
past and future SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT
™
10, and any AP
®
Exams to make planning
connections that are relevant to you.
NOTE: The content from these organizations is not written, edited, or approved by College Board.
What Organizations Could I Hear From?
When you opt in to Connections, you will only get content from organizations that meet one
of the following criteria:
Nonprot accredited colleges and universities (domestic and international) that oer
2-year associate and/or 4-year bachelor’s degrees, as well as their licensure and certicate
programs
501(c)(3) nonprot scholarship providers
Government agencies that are responsible for the oversight and administration of
educational programs, which are for the purpose of oering no-cost scholarships and/or
nancial aid or providing information regarding nonprot higher education
What Kind of Messages Might I Receive?
You may learn about colleges, scholarship opportunities, and potential oers of direct
admissions. The organizations may send you:
Information about nonprot college or university undergraduate institutions, including
their academic degree programs (that lead to associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees,
certicate, or licensure), admissions processes and free events, no-cost scholarship and
nancial aid opportunities, or general college information
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
After the Test BigFuture School and Connections
Information about no-cost scholarship and nancial aid opportunities that fund nonprot
secondary or postsecondary education and/or activities
Information about accessing higher education, including information about particular
types of nonprot higher education institutions or their academic degree programs
Oers of direct admission to nonprot higher education institutions
If you receive a message with a direct admission oer, it is the college reaching out with
a preliminary oer of admission, without you needing to submit an application. For direct
admissions oers:
Your race and ethnicity will not be used.
Though some colleges may be test-optional, College Board assessment test score ranges
may be part of the decision-making process for these direct admissions oers. For
messages oering direct admission, only your SAT score ranges may be used.
There is no guarantee of admissions, scholarships, or nancial aid.
Any oers of direct admission you receive may require you to complete additional steps as
dened by the college.
The college may also require conrmation of information it relied upon in making an oer of
direct admission, such as submitting your nal transcript to complete the admissions process.
After you get the oer, you may share more information directly with the college to
consider a comprehensive nancial aid package as well as conrm your admission and
enrollment.
Each college makes the decision on oers of direct admission.
College Board is not involved in any of the selection or decision making by any of the colleges.
If you don’t receive an oer, you may still apply using the regular application process.
What Information About Me Will Connections Use?
We will never share your personal information with any organizations as part of
Connections. To deliver content relevant to you as part of Connections, we use information
your state, district, or school provides us with and information you choose to provide to us.
We may provide reports about your use of Connections to these organizations, but none of
your personal info will be included.
Information about you that your state, district, or school provides:
Date of birth
Where you go to school
Grade level
Gender
Which College Board test you’re taking
When you will test
Information about you that you provide (optional) as part of this test and/or in BigFuture
School:
Home/mailing address
Email address
Race
Ethnicity
First and best language
GPA
Intended college major
Level of education aspirations
Parents’ level of education
Your educational and career interests and preferences shared by you (optionally) in
BigFuture School.
BigFuture School and Connections Are Optional
Your participation in BigFuture School and Connections is completely voluntary, and you can
opt out at any time.
To opt out of BigFuture School text messages:
Text STOP to any text we send you about BigFuture School.
Call customer service at 866-756-7346.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
After the Test Getting Your Scores
For additional help, text HELP to any text we send you about BigFuture School or contact
us at cb.org/contact.
You may stop using and delete the BigFuture School mobile application at any time.
To opt out of Connections:
There is an opt-out feature within the BigFuture School app.
You can contact College Board’s customer service at 866-756-7346.
You can also control specic communication preferences as you use Connections, including
through email/mail/app notication controls within the app, an unsubscribe option within
Connections emails, opt-out instructions included in each mailing, and by contacting College
Board customer service.
Please know that your school, district, or state may choose to not provide access to
Connections for its students or students that test at their schools.
PSAT/NMSQT scores will be available in the BigFuture School mobile app. Please visit
psat.org/scores for score release dates.
Read more about BigFuture School and Connections at satsuite.org/bigfutureschool.
Getting Your Scores
In addition to accessing your scores on the BigFuture School mobile app, an ocial student
score report called “Your Score Report” is provided for every PSAT/NMSQT test taker. Check
with your counselor if you would like to obtain a copy of your score report.
As always, students age 13 and older may use a personal College Board student account
(studentscores.collegeboard.org) to view additional insights online.
We send your scores, data derived from your scores, and other information you provide
during testing to our cosponsor, National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), who
conducts the National Merit Scholarship Program. Your score report will also include
the NMSC Selection Index score, which NMSC uses as an initial screen of entrants to
its National Merit Scholarship Program. For further information, see the National Merit
Scholarship Program section later in this publication.
Explore Career Options
For students in the U.S., your score report will show Career Insights Snapshot—a list of
growing careers in your state that connect to your math and reading and writing skills
based on your SAT Suite performance. Career Insights Snapshot provides career examples,
not recommendations, that can stimulate your thinking, broaden your awareness of career
options, and encourage deeper career exploration beyond the score report. Visit bigfuture.org
to discover more careers that interest you.
PRO TIP: After reviewing the career information on your score report, take the free BigFuture
Career Quiz in less than 10 minutes to get a list of more potential careers that match your
interests. Visit bigfuture.org/careerquiz.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
After the Test College Board National Recognition Program
College Board National Recognition Program
If you take an eligible administration of the PSAT/NMSQT as a sophomore or junior and
identify as Black, Latino, Indigenous, rst-generation, and/or attend school in a rural area or
a small town, you may be invited to submit for one or more awards:
National African American Recognition Program
National First-Generation Recognition Program
National Hispanic Recognition Program
National Indigenous Recognition Program
National Rural and Small Town Recognition Program
The programs serve as a recruitment signal to colleges and universities and will help you
be recognized for academic achievements in high school. Learn more on BigFuture at
bigfuture.org/recognition.
Scholarship Programs
College Board partners with a variety of education organizations to help connect students
like you to funding that can help pay for college. These partners generally look for groups of
students based on expected graduation date, where they live, self-reported grade point average
(GPA), test score ranges, intended college major, geography, and other limited parameters.
Some of our partners oer more than one scholarship, with varying deadlines. For more
information about how you may apply directly with these organizations, visit their website(s).
American Indian Science and Engineering Society (aises.org)
American Savings Foundation (asfdn.org)
Asian & Pacic Islander American Scholars (apiascholars.org)
Boettcher Foundation (boettcherfoundation.org/colorado-scholarships)
Cobell Scholarship (awarded by Indigenous Education, Inc.) (cobellscholar.org)
Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation (coca-colascholarsfoundation.org)
Daniels Fund (danielsfund.org)
The Ford Family Foundation (tf.org/scholarship-programs-information)
The Gates Scholarship (thegatesscholarship.org)
George Snow Scholarship Fund (scholarship.org)
Greenhouse Scholars (greenhousescholars.org)
Hispanic Scholarship Fund (hsf.net)
Horatio Alger Association (scholars.horatioalger.org)
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation (jkcf.org)
Jackie Robinson Foundation (jackierobinson.org)
Ron Brown Scholar Program (ronbrown.org)
Sachs Foundation (sachsfoundation.org)
Southern Scholars Initiative (southernscholarsinitiative.org)
Sunrise Scholars Foundation (sunrisescholars.org)
TheDream.US (thedream.us)
United Negro College Fund (uncf.org)
Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (waopportunityscholarship.org)
See psat.org/scholarships for more information.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Introduction
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules
Introduction
These Testing Rules (“Testing Rules,” “Terms and Conditions,” or “Agreement”) are a legal
contract between you and College Board (“College Board” or “we”).
They set forth important rules and policies you must follow related to taking the PSAT/NMSQT
®
.
Please read these carefully.
WARNING. If you don’t follow this Agreement, you may be dismissed or prevented from taking
the test. You also may be prevented from taking future College Board tests, including the
SAT
®
. College Board may also decide not to score your test or to cancel your score. College
Board can take these steps in its sole discretion.
All disputes between you and College Board must be resolved in accordance with Section
9 of this Agreement. You understand that by agreeing to arbitration, you are waiving your
right to resolve disputes in a court of law by a judge or jury except as otherwise set forth in
this Agreement.
Section 1.
Requirements for the PSAT/NMSQT
The PSAT/NMSQT is taken at a school (typically a school you attend) (“your school”) on a
Testing Device as dened below. It is administered on Bluebook™, the College Board digital
testing application that is downloaded to your Testing Device.
Step 1: Testing Device. You will need to bring an eligible fully charged testing device (“Testing
Device”) that can connect to the internet to take the test. Testing Devices are one of the
following: Windows laptop or tablet, Mac laptop, iPad, or compatible desktop computer in a
school computer lab. You can also use a Chromebook if it is a School-Managed Testing Device
as dened below. You cannot take the PSAT/NMSQT on a mobile phone. The Testing Device
must have sucient charge to last the duration of the test and setup.
Your Testing Device can come from one of the following sources:
School-Managed Testing Device: A device your school provides to you for your use in testing
that your school has administrative rights over.
Personal Testing Device: A device you bring for your use in testing that is not provided by
your school. If you bring a Personal Testing Device, you must make sure that it is allowed by
your school. You are responsible for making sure your Testing Device is running on the latest
operating system software, and if it isn’t, you must update it prior to testing. Schools reserve
the right to deny use of outside devices on their school networks. Students may be asked to
use a School-Managed Testing Device in these instances.
Step 2. Bluebook Installation. Bluebook must be downloaded onto your Testing Device. If your
Testing Device is a School-Managed Testing Device, your school administrator will likely download
Bluebook to your Testing Device, but it is your responsibility to conrm that Bluebook has been
installed. If you are using a Personal Testing Device, you will need to download Bluebook yourself
from the College Board website located at bluebook.app.collegeboard.org prior to testing.
Step 3. Exam Setup. You must complete exam setup (usually part of the digital readiness check
at your school) to help ensure that your Testing Device can connect to the school internet and
that you are able to test. Your school will need to provide you with sign-in credentials for you to
complete the exam setup prior to testing. Your school may provide you with additional directions
on preparing your Testing Device for testing, and you must follow such directions. You must
sign in to Bluebook using your College Board online account username and password, sign the
“Privacy Policy and Use of This App” rules, and complete exam setup before the test.
Step 4. Test Day.
On test day, your school will direct you to your testing room.
You will connect to your school’s internet.
Your proctor will provide you with your sign-in credentials to input into Bluebook.
You will follow the instructions provided to you by Bluebook and your proctor to complete
check-in.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 1. Requirements for the PSAT/NMSQT
You must bring the following required items:
Acceptable photo ID if you are an Away Student (dened below) or testing at a school
you don’t regularly attend. (SAT Suite ID requirements are on the College Board website
located at sat.org/id-requirements.)
Fully charged Testing Device with Bluebook already installed.
Acceptable Calculator as described on the College Board website located at satsuite.
collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt/taking-the-test/what-to-bring-leave/calculator-policy if
you choose not to use the built-in Desmos calculator in Bluebook.
Pen or pencil for scratch work (does not have to be a No. 2 pencil).
You may also bring the following items on test day (as listed on the College Board website
located at satsuite.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt/taking-the-test/what-to-bring-leave/what-
to-bring), unless your school prohibits these items:
A power cord and/or a portable charger. (We can’t guarantee you’ll have access to an
outlet during testing.)
An external mouse and mouse pad if you use one.
An external keyboard if you use one. (You can use external keyboards only with a tablet—
not a laptop.)
Step 5. Taking the Test.
Internet Connection: Bluebook is designed to work with an intermittent connection to the
internet. An internet connection is required to start the test and to submit answers at the end
of the test. You will receive instructions from your proctor on test day if there is an outage.
Modules: Each section of the PSAT/NMSQT is made up of 2 modules. Once you move on
from a module, you cannot return to access any questions from it.
Online Calculator: There is a graphing calculator built into Bluebook for your use on the
Math section, but you may also bring an Acceptable Calculator as described on the College
Board website located at satsuite.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt/taking-the-test/what-to-
bring-leave/calculator-policy. No other calculators are permitted.
Managing Your Time: Bluebook has a timer that will count down the minutes and seconds
remaining in each module. You can hide the timer, but once there are 5 minutes remaining,
the timer will become visible until time is up. When time expires, your work will be
automatically saved and submitted if you are connected to the internet. You will not be able to
keep working on a module after time expires. You are required to stay for the full duration of
the test. You cannot end a module early or submit your answers before the timer runs out.
No Other Open Programs or Applications: Prior to testing, you must close all other
applications or programs on your Testing Device. You cannot work in any other program or
application while the test is running, and you cannot paste work into Bluebook from another
program or application. You cannot have any open apps on your Testing Device at any point
during testing. Attempting to do so may result in score cancellation. The only exception
is your use of approved assistive technology where you have been approved for testing
accommodations by College Board.
Answer Submission in Bluebook: You must enter your answers in Bluebook. You will not
submit any handwritten work, les, or photos. You must not close your Testing Device lid or
cover the Testing Device screen until your answers are submitted. Closing the Testing Device
lid or covering the Testing Device screen before this point may prevent answers from being
submitted and cause your test to be incomplete. Answer submission happens automatically
if your Testing Device is connected to the internet when the PSAT/NMSQT ends. If your
answers were successfully submitted, you will see a conrmation screen indicating so.
However, if your Testing Device is not connected to the internet when the PSAT/NMSQT
ends and your answer submission fails, you’ll have until 11:59 p.m. local time the next day
to reconnect to the internet and submit your answers. Except as otherwise specied in these
Testing Rules, College Board will score all PSAT/NMSQT exams that have been started,
even if a submission is incomplete or a submission error occurs. In some cases when a
submission appears to be incomplete, scores will be designated “Guidance Purposes Only,”
and will be ineligible for use in entry into the National Merit
®
Scholarship Program.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 2. Prohibited Items
Answer Submission in a Paper Test Book for Those with College Board–Approved
Accommodation: Students approved by College Board for an accommodation to test with a
paper test book, outside of Bluebook, will record their answers in the test book by circling
their nal answer choice. Circle only 1 answer for each question. Multiple circled answers
to 1 question will be counted as an incorrect answer. Most questions are multiple choice,
but some questions are student-produced responses. Directions for lling in your answers
to these questions are in your test book. You’ll write your answer next to or under the test
question and circle it clearly. You won’t receive credit for anything written outside of the
circle. Be sure to follow all instructions to prevent any scoring delays or issues. A member of
the testing sta will transcribe your answers into Bluebook.
Section 2.
Prohibited Items
You may not bring prohibited items to the PSAT/NMSQT. Prohibited items include:
Electronic equipment including phones, smartwatches, tness trackers, wearable technology,
cameras, recording or listening devices, or any other type of electronic or communication
device except for your Testing Device used for the PSAT/NMSQT and, if applicable, any
assistive technology that you have been approved to use for testing as an accommodation by
College Board. If not being collected, all prohibited electronic equipment must be powered o
and stored away from student access during testing.
All stylus pens, Apple pens, smart pens, iPad pencils, and other electronic writing instruments.
Books, reference guides, notes, compasses, protractors, dictionaries, highlighters, or colored
pencils.
Papers of any kind, except for scratch paper provided by proctors and collected at the end of
the test.
Watches that beep, make a noise, or have an alarm.
Calculators that are not acceptable.
Detachable privacy screens for a Testing Device.
Reference guides, keyboard maps, or other typing instructions.
Brimmed caps, which can be worn into the testing room, but must be removed and stored
under your desk during testing.
Ear plugs.
Headphones.
Weapons or rearms.
If you do not bring the required items, or if you bring prohibited items, you may be denied
admission to or be dismissed from the test site; in addition, we may decline to score your test, or
cancel your score.
NOTE: Some exceptions to the above may apply if a test taker has received a College Board–
approved accommodation.
Section 3.
Prohibited Behaviors
You may not engage in the prohibited behaviors set forth below:
Attempt to cheat or otherwise obtain an unfair advantage on the PSAT/NMSQT.
Remove or attempt to remove any test questions, responses, notes, or scratch paper from the
testing area, including through memorization; give them to anyone else; or discuss them with
anyone else through any means, including, but not limited to, email, text messages, or the internet.
At any time, improperly access the test area, the test (or any part of the test), an answer key,
or any information about the test.
Engage in any way in (i) theft or attempted theft of test content including through intrusion
into Bluebook; (ii) postexam manipulation of test content, responses, or test administration
data; (iii) attempting to adversely impact or adversely impacting College Board or your school
network or Bluebook through any means including cybersecurity.
Attempt to give or receive assistance, including by copying or by using an answer key.
Discuss, record, copy, or share information about the test including questions, answers,
identifying information about the version or form of a test, or any other information that
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PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 4. Score Cancellation and Disciplinary Measures
might compromise the security of the test at any time (including before the test, during the
test, during breaks, or after the test).
Communicate with other test takers or other individuals in any form while testing is in session.
Allow anyone to see your test questions or answers or attempt to see or copy others’ test
questions or answers.
Consult notes, other people, electronic devices, textbooks, websites, or any other resources
during the test or during breaks.
Have subject-related information on your clothing, shoes, or body.
Wear a hooded shirt or jacket with the hood up. Hooded shirts or jackets are permitted if you
leave the hood down during testing.
Use or access any prohibited items including devices or aids such as, but not limited to,
mobile phones, smartwatches, tness trackers, other oral or written communication devices
or wearable technology, cameras, notes, or reference books, etc., during or in connection with
the test, including during breaks.
Have any applications running on your Testing Device other than Bluebook or approved
assistive technology or visit any other digital resource(s) or website(s) during the test.
Fail to turn in or store away a mobile phone in accordance with the school’s collection process.
Share a calculator with another person.
Use a calculator on any test section other than the Math section.
Use a prohibited calculator.
Leave the testing room permanently prior to the conclusion of all sections of the test.
Students may test only in their assigned testing room. Testing outside of their testing room
may result in score cancellation.
Go to a locker or leave the designated testing area at any time during the test administration,
including during breaks.
Deliberately attempt to and/or take the test for someone else or attempt to have someone else
impersonate you to take the test.
Provide false information to College Board.
Disturb others during the test.
Consume food or drink in unauthorized areas or times.
Exhibit or engage in confrontational, threatening, or unruly behavior, conduct, or
communication toward or concerning others including, without limitation, any test taker, test
administrator, proctor, employee of College Board, or College Board contractor.
Allow an alarm or a personal item to sound in the testing room.
Fail to follow any of the test administration rules set forth in these Terms and Conditions or
directions given by the testing sta.
Utilize or attempt to utilize any articial intelligence (“AI”) tools, including, without
limitation, AI writing solutions such as Generative Pre-trained Transformer (“GPT”) 3 and 4
and subsequent versions or developments.
Deliberately sabotage, damage, or attempt to remove the Testing Device from the testing
room or test site during the administration of the test.
Section 4.
Score Cancellation and Disciplinary Measures
a. Score Cancellation and Disciplinary Measures. In the event that College Board determines
that your scores are invalid under Section 4(b) below, or you have engaged in Misconduct
under Section 4(c) below, we may, in our sole discretion, take 1 or more of the following
measures (“Measures”): Deny you entry to a test administration, dismiss you from the test,
decline to score your test, cancel your scores, ban you from taking future College Board
assessments (including without limitation the SAT, Advanced Placement
®
(AP
®
) and CLEP
®
Exams), and/or share information with others as set forth in Section 4(f) below.
CAUTION! THE CONSEQUENCES OF CHEATING ON THE PSAT/NMSQT ARE SEVERE.
b. Invalid Scores. We may cancel your scores and/or take any of the other Measures described
above, if after following the procedures set forth in this section, we determine, in our sole
discretion, that there is substantial evidence that your scores are invalid (“Invalid Scores”).
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 4. Score Cancellation and Disciplinary Measures
Examples of evidence of Invalid Scores include, without limitation, unusual answer patterns,
attempts to access other applications or websites during testing, failure to close all other
applications or programs during testing, or other evidence that indicates these Terms and
Conditions have been violated. Before canceling your scores under this Invalid Scores section,
we will notify you in writing (via email if an email address is provided by you in Bluebook
for this test) or through your school and oer you 3 options: Voluntary score cancellation, a
retest (if during the testing window and available at the test site), or an opportunity to submit
additional information and request a further review by a College Board panel. If you opt for
a further review by a College Board panel, and it conrms, in its sole discretion, that your
scores are invalid, we will oer you 3 options: Voluntary score cancellation, a retest (if during
the testing window and available at the test site), or binding arbitration (or small claims court)
as described below. If the retest option is available at your test site and you choose to pursue
the retest option, you may not review scores from the administration under review—such
scores will be canceled. The process described above in this Section 4(b) is referred to as the
“Score Validity Process.” Additional information about security measures and consequences
of violating security policies is set forth on the College Board website located at satsuite.
collegeboard.org/sat/test-security-fairness. The binding arbitration (or small claims court)
option is available only for tests administered in the United States and U.S. territories.
c. Misconduct. Notwithstanding Section 4(b) above, if we determine, in our sole discretion,
that there is overwhelming evidence that you violated these Terms and Conditions
(“Misconduct”), the Score Validity Process will not apply, and we may cancel your scores
and/or take any of the Measures described above. Examples of Misconduct might include
overwhelming evidence that you used or attempted to use an answer key, mobile phone, the
internet, or an application other than Bluebook; remove test content; adversely impact (e.g.,
take down, disrupt, or deface) the College Board server or Bluebook through a cyberattack
or other malicious activity; reverse engineer test specications and content; or engage in
postexam manipulation of test content, answer keys, or telemetry data. Misconduct may be
established in various ways including, without limitation, through observations during an
administration or by evidence discovered afterward.
d. Testing Irregularities. We may cancel your scores if we determine, in our sole discretion,
that any testing irregularity occurred (collectively “Testing Irregularities”). Examples of
Testing Irregularities include, without limitation, problems, irregular circumstances, or events
associated with the administration of a test that may aect 1 test taker or groups of test takers.
Such problems include, without limitation, administrative errors (e.g., improper seating,
improper admission to a test site, providing accommodations not approved by College Board),
defective materials, defective equipment, technical issues (e.g., Bluebook malfunction, Testing
Device hardware issues, internet outage), evidence of possible preknowledge of secure test
content, and disruptions of test administrations caused by events such as internet disruptions,
natural disasters, weather events, epidemics or pandemics, wars, riots, civil disturbances, or
other emergencies. When Testing Irregularities occur, we may cancel an entire administration
or individual registrations, decline to score all or part of the test, or cancel scores. We may do
this regardless of whether or not you caused the Testing Irregularities, beneted from them, or
violated these Terms and Conditions. We may, in our sole discretion, give you the opportunity
to take the test again within a reasonable time frame, and without charge. This is the sole
remedy that may be available to you as a result of Testing Irregularities.
e. Test Taker Reporting Violations or Suspicious Behavior. You may condentially report any
suspected violation of the PSAT/NMSQT Terms and Conditions, or any suspicion concerning
the security of a PSAT/NMSQT test administration, by immediately reporting this information
to College Board online at forms.collegeboard.org/reportcheating or by emailing us at
collegeboardtestsecurity@collegeboard.org.
f. College Board Sharing Information with Third Parties. We may share the results of test
security investigations (including without limitation those relating to Misconduct and Invalid
Scores described above, and other disciplinary-related information), with third parties,
including with your school, any score recipient, college, higher education institution or
agency, scholarship organization, potential score recipient, government agency in the United
States or abroad, parents, legal guardians, or law enforcement. College Board may also share
such information with third parties that have a legitimate reason for knowing the information
or who may be able to assist College Board in its investigation or who may be conducting
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 5. Privacy
their own investigation. College Board may respond to inquiries from any institution to which
you submitted a score. If you publicize any review, investigation, or decision of College
Board, College Board may make any and all details of such matter public.
Section 5.
Privacy
a. Privacy Policies. College Board recognizes the importance of protecting your privacy. Our
privacy policies located at collegeboard.org/privacy-center (“Privacy Policies”), and
also available to you under Help on the Bluebook homepage, are part of these Terms and
Conditions. You consent to the collection, use, and disclosure by College Board of your
information, including personally identiable information, described in the Privacy Policies
and in these Testing Rules. College Board may update its Privacy Policies from time to time,
and they are subject to change up to 1 week prior to your test date and any subsequent test
dates. You are required to review the Privacy Policies located on the College Board website at
collegeboard.org/privacy-center prior to each test administration.
b. Testing Device and Activity Data.
Testing Device Data: When you download and use Bluebook, College Board will receive certain
information about your Testing Device, including device type, operating system type and
version, applications and processes running on your Testing Device, Internet Protocol (IP)
address, screen size and resolution, number of screens, available memory, storage and disk
bytes, disk mount, type and size, battery level, and other device-specic information for the
purposes described below.
Activity Data: We also capture and monitor the actions you take in Bluebook, including your
responses, where you click, where you put your mouse on the page, how long you spend on each
page, ctrl/alt/delete attempts, and how you navigate through Bluebook.
Testing Device Data and Activity Data: Testing Device Data and Activity Data (collectively,
“Data”) may be used by College Board to make sure your Testing Device is compatible with
Bluebook, for test security purposes, for test validation and research, and to develop and
improve College Board products and services. Data may be disclosed to trusted vendors, but
only in their provision of services to College Board, and we may disclose aggregated and de-
identied Data. Data is not sold or licensed to third parties, including without limitation for their
marketing purposes or other commercial purposes. We may share Data with your school, district
or state education department related to the PSAT/NMSQT you take on Bluebook, including any
misuse of Bluebook. You will also be asked to type specic sentences in Bluebook. Neither Data
nor those typed sentences are used for biometric identication.
c. BigFuture
®
School. If you are age 13 or older and take the test within the United States,
and you decide to download the BigFuture School mobile application and authenticate your
identity in BigFuture School, then you may access the following educational services in
the BigFuture School mobile application, as described below. We may also provide these
educational services through other BigFuture School channels, such as a website portal
exclusively for these services.
Score Information. You may access your score(s) and other score information in
BigFuture School. This is separate from a score report your school and/or district may
provide to you. Score release dates will be posted online at satsuite.collegeboard.org/
sat/scores/sat-score-release-dates.
Educational and Career Information from College Board. We may provide you with
educational information and recommendations about college and career options in
BigFuture School. This may include, for example, AP Potential, postsecondary options
and opportunities, career pathways, scholarships, National Recognition Program
potential eligibility, nancial aid and paying for college information, and opportunities to
participate in College Board research studies. We may customize this information based
on certain demographic information from your school, district, or state, information you
provide during testing, your score(s) on this test, and your activities in BigFuture School.
d. Connections. Connections™ is a free, voluntary program that connects students with
information about nonprot accredited colleges and universities (domestic and international),
nonprot scholarship providers, and government agencies administering educational programs
(“Eligible Organizations”), which may be a good match for their interests. If available in
your state, district, and/or school, you may choose to opt in to Connections during testing in
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PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 6. Miscellaneous
Bluebook or in the BigFuture School mobile application, and may be able to do so through
other channels. When you opt in to Connections, we will match you with Eligible Organizations
based on the information that you and your school, district, or state provide to us as part of this
test, score ranges on any of your past and future SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and any AP
Exams, your interests and preferences as controlled by you in BigFuture School, information
you share in BigFuture School, and demographics and characteristics of students in which
Eligible Organizations are interested. You may then receive information and messages from us
about Eligible Organizations to which you’ve been matched, including content about colleges
that could be a good t, information about scholarships you might be eligible for, advice about
college access, and oers of direct admissions. (For messages with oers of direct admission:
only your SAT score ranges may be used by us; your race and ethnicity will not be used;
and there is no guarantee of admissions, scholarships, or nancial aid. Any oers of direct
admission you receive may require you to complete additional steps to enroll and to conrm
information about you the college relied upon to make the oer, as determined by the college.)
You may receive these messages through the BigFuture School mobile application, email, and
postal mail (if you choose to download BigFuture School, and/or provide your email and/or
address as part of this test or later in BigFuture School, all of which is optional). College Board
will not share any of your personally identiable information with any Eligible
Organizations as part of Connections. We may provide reports and analytics to Eligible
Organizations regarding your use of Connections, but only in de-identied and aggregated
form. More information about Connections is available at satsuite.org/bigfutureschool.
Opt-out: You can opt out of Connections at any time by an opt-out feature within the
BigFuture School mobile application and by contacting College Board customer service
at 866-756-7346. You can also control specic communication preferences as you use
Connections, including through email/mail/app notication controls within BigFuture
School, an unsubscribe option within Connections emails, opt-out instructions included
in each mailing, and by contacting College Board customer service at 866-756-7346.
e. Educational Reporting. We send your scores, data derived from your scores, and other
information you provide during testing to your school and district. In addition, your scores may
be sent to your state for educational, diagnostic, and/or reporting purposes. (Students who
test away from the school they regularly attend will have their scores shared with the school
they regularly attend and their scores will not be shared with the school at which they tested.
Homeschooled students’ scores won’t be shared with the school that administers the test.)
f. National Recognition Programs. We use the information that you and your school, district,
or state provide to us as part of this test and your score(s) on this test to determine and
contact you about your potential eligibility for the College Board National Recognition
Programs. We may share this information and your eligibility and recognition status
with your school and district. The College Board National Recognition Programs create
pathways to college for underrepresented students by awarding them academic honors
and connecting them with universities across the country. For more information, visit
bigfuture.collegeboard.org/communities-events/national-recognition-programs.
g. National Merit Scholarship Program. We send your scores, data derived from your scores,
certain demographic information from your school, district, or state, and other information
you provide during testing to our cosponsor, National Merit Scholarship Corporation
(“Cosponsor” or “NMSC
®
”) for it to consider your eligibility for its National Merit
®
Scholarship
Program in accordance with the PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide located on the College Board
website at satsuite.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/psat-nmsqt-student-guide.pdf and
www.nationalmerit.org. NMSC may in turn share your name, address, and birth date with
your high school if you qualify for entrance to the National Merit Scholarship Program.
Section 6.
Miscellaneous
a. Retest. If you encounter test day issues that invalidate your test including without limitation
Testing Irregularities (dened above), or otherwise keep you from completing your test,
you may work with your school to schedule up to 2 retests if necessary. Testing cannot be
oered outside of the testing window. Not all issues will be retest-eligible. If a retest is not
available, students who are otherwise eligible and who are interested in entering the National
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 6. Miscellaneous
Merit Scholarship Program should turn to the National Merit Scholarship Program section
in this guide to learn how to request information about another route of entry to the 2026
competition.
b. In some instances, scores may be issued for guidance purposes only. In this scenario, the
resulting scores cannot be considered for some scholarship competitions. When scores
are provided for guidance purposes only, a message will appear below the National Merit
Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) Selection Index score on your score report directing you
to follow up with your school to learn more about the reason for the “guidance purposes
only” report. Students who are otherwise eligible and who are interested in entering the
National Merit Scholarship Program should turn to the National Merit Scholarship Program
section in the PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide located on the College Board website at satsuite.
collegeboard.org/media/pdf/psat-nmsqt-student-guide.pdf to learn how to request
information about another route of entry to the 2026 competition. College Board will forward
all reports of misconduct or testing irregularities to NMSC, which reserves the right to
make its own independent judgment about a student’s participation in the National Merit
Scholarship Program.
c. Score Cancellation. Students that do not want their scores reported may request a
cancellation by asking sta to submit a student-requested cancellation form in Test Day
Toolkit. Cancellation requests must be submitted within 10 days of the test day. In some
instances, scores may still be shared with schools, states, or districts.
d. Away Students. If you are testing at a school that you do not regularly attend (an “Away
Student”) and will be bringing a Testing Device that is managed by the school you regularly
attend, you must contact the school you attend to ensure that the Exam App is downloaded
to the Testing Device prior to testing. College Board will provide public deadlines and
guidelines for Away Students to participate in the PSAT/NMSQT. Schools have the discretion
as to whether to allow Away Students to test at their school.
e. Testing Devices
Your Testing Device must be fully charged and be able to last for the duration of the test
and setup. If your Testing Device does not have sucient battery life, you may wish to
bring a charging cable or portable charger. We cannot guarantee that you will have access
to an outlet.
Schools may have policies regarding whether the use of Personal Testing Devices is
allowed on their campuses. If Personal Testing Devices are not allowed and students
must test using School-Managed Testing Devices, then schools are not required to
provide a school-issued Testing Device to Away Students.
f. To ensure the integrity of the PSAT/NMSQT, for security reasons, or for other reasons in our
sole discretion, College Board reserves the right to bar any individual or group of individuals
from registering for and/or taking any College Board assessment.
g. If College Board becomes aware that you or someone else may be in imminent danger, we
reserve the right to contact the appropriate individuals or agencies, including your parents,
guardians, high school, or law enforcement agencies. We may also provide the relevant
content, along with any personal information, to those contacted.
h. College Board or its designee may use methods to capture images, video, or audio at any
or all test sites to help ensure test security. The resulting images or recordings, which may
permit College Board to identify specic individuals, may be collected, stored, reviewed, and
used for the purposes of (i) identifying, collecting evidence of, and/or investigating possible
PSAT/NMSQT test security incidents; and (ii) enhancing PSAT/NMSQT test security.
These images and/or recordings are maintained following the test administration for as long
as reasonably necessary for the purposes specied. Thereafter, the images and recordings
are securely destroyed. College Board will not use or disclose such information except as
described earlier in this section, as requested by law enforcement, and/or as reasonably
necessary to protect the rights and property of College Board or third parties.
i. College Board may pretest new questions on the PSAT/NMSQT to determine if they should
be included in a future PSAT/NMSQT administration. These questions may appear in all
test sections. They will not be included in computing your scores. Pretesting questions are
built into the design of the PSAT/NMSQT, and testing time for the PSAT/NMSQT takes these
questions into account.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 7. Policies and Requirements
j. After the PSAT/NMSQT, you may be asked to participate in a test experience survey.
Participation is optional and will not aect your scores.
k. College Board takes steps to ensure that registration records are properly processed, that
answers are properly processed, and tests are properly scored. In the unlikely event of
a problem with shipping or processing any test materials, including without limitation,
answers, answer submission, score reports, or with scoring the test, or score reporting,
College Board will correct the error, if possible. Retesting may be your sole remedy in relation
to such issues. College Board has sole discretion in determining whether to score lost or
corrupted answers that are eventually recovered.
l. You must follow the local policies of your school. All personal property brought into the
test site, such as purses, bags, backpacks, mobile phones, calculators, and other electronic
devices, may be subject to search at the discretion of College Board and testing sta.
Searches may include the use of tools or other methods that detect prohibited devices and/or
their use. College Board and testing sta may conscate and retain for a reasonable period
of time any personal property suspected of having been used, or capable of being used, in
violation of our test security and fairness policies, for further investigation.
m. College Board and your school will not be responsible for personal property, including
prohibited items, brought to the test site on test day that becomes lost, stolen, or damaged.
n. You should only take the PSAT/NMSQT 1 time during the testing window. In the event of a
Testing Irregularity as described above, you are permitted up to 2 retests.
o. Your school has sole discretion on when the test will be administered during the testing
window and has the right to modify the test date in its sole discretion.
p. College Board is not responsible for your failure to follow directions, steps, and instructions
relating to taking the PSAT/NMSQT. You may be prevented from testing, in the sole
discretion of College Board, for such failure.
q. If you submit a report for what you consider to be an error or an ambiguity in a test
question, you understand that College Board may need to hold your PSAT/NMSQT score for
investigation. As a result, your score may not be available by the published release date for
your administration.
Section 7.
Policies and Requirements
a. All College Board policies and requirements referenced in these Testing Rules, as well as
those located on the College Board website at satsuite.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt, and
linked information therein, are part of these Testing Rules.
b. College Board may update its policies and requirements from time to time, including without
limitation Testing Device requirements, and they are subject to change up to 1 week prior to
your test date. You are required to review these prior to each test administration.
Section 8.
Intellectual Property Rights
a. All College Board tests, including the PSAT/NMSQT, test-related documents and materials,
and test preparation materials (“Test Content”) are copyrighted works owned by College
Board and protected by the laws of the United States and other countries.
b. All software, webpages, algorithms, processes, and technologies through which you access
and take the exam, your answers are scored, and the test is secured and proctored, including
Bluebook but excluding your Testing Device, your internet service provider (ISP) and the
public internet, belong to College Board and its licensors.
c. You shall not screenshot or attempt to make any image, copy, or download Test Content,
Bluebook, or the BigFuture School mobile application. You shall not attempt to decompile,
reverse engineer, or disassemble the Bluebook or BigFuture School mobile application.
d. All answers and answer documents you submit on the PSAT/NMSQT are owned by College
Board, and these may be used by College Board for any purpose, subject to the Privacy
Policies located on the College Board website at collegeboard.org/privacy-center, and these
Testing Rules; however, you have independent rights to your scores, including the right to
access, retain, and use your scores, except as otherwise described in these Testing Rules.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 9. ARBITRATION OF DISPUTES AND CLASS ACTION WAIVER
Section 9.
ARBITRATION OF DISPUTES AND CLASS ACTION WAIVER
a. General Arbitration Rules (“General Arbitration Rules”)
All disputes between you and College Board (each a “party”) and/or any or all of its contractors or
Cosponsor that relate in any way to registering for, participating in, or taking the PSAT/NMSQT,
including but not limited to requesting or receiving test accommodations, score reporting, the use
of your data, test security issues, or the Score Validity Process (dened in the “Invalid Scores”
section herein), will exclusively be resolved in binding arbitration or small claims court. By
agreeing to arbitration in accordance with this section, you are waiving your right to have your
dispute heard by a judge or jury except as set forth below. Disputes relating to the Score Validity
Process are subject to both these General Arbitration Rules and the Supplemental Arbitration
Rules dened in Section 9(b) below. If there is a conict between the General Arbitration Rules
and the Supplemental Arbitration Rules, the Supplemental Arbitration Rules will control.
Either party can seek to have a claim resolved in small claims court if the rules of that court
will allow it. Additionally, and except for disputes relating to the Score Validity Process under
the Supplemental Arbitration Rules below, if the claims asserted in any request or demand for
arbitration could have been brought in small claims court, then either you or College Board may
elect to have the claims heard in small claims court, rather than in arbitration, at any time before
an arbitrator is appointed, by notifying the other party of that election in writing. Any dispute
about whether a claim qualies for small claims court will be resolved by that court and not
by an arbitrator. In the event that either party elects to have their claims heard in small claims
court, the arbitration proceeding will remain closed unless and until there is a decision by the
small claims court that the claim should proceed in arbitration.
All claims that are not decided in small claims court must be resolved through binding,
individual arbitration before a single arbitrator. The arbitration will be administered by the
American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) under the AAA Consumer Arbitration Rules,
supplemented by the AAA Mass Arbitration Supplementary Rules as applicable, in eect at the
time a request for arbitration is led with the AAA. Copies of the AAA Consumer Arbitration
Rules and the AAA Mass Arbitration Supplementary Rules are located at adr.org. The arbitrator
will have the authority to resolve any dispute regarding the scope or enforceability of this
Agreement, except only a court can decide claims that a party violated the intellectual property
rights of the other party. In addition, only a court can decide issues relating to (a) the pre-
arbitration requirements contained in this Agreement or (b) the interpretation of the prohibition
of class and representative actions contained in this Agreement.
Before commencing a small claims court or arbitration proceeding, that party (the “complainant”)
must provide the other party (the “respondent”) with a written notice of dispute that includes
the complainant’s name and contact information, a detailed description of the dispute, relevant
documents, the specic relief sought, and the complainant’s physical signature (signature by
counsel to the party is not sucient). If you are the complainant, you must send the notice of
dispute by rst-class mail, FedEx, or UPS to Legal Department, 250 Vesey Street, New York, NY
10281. College Board will send its notice to your address as reected in College Board’s records.
Also, before the complainant may commence a small claims court or arbitration proceeding,
the parties must attempt to resolve the dispute through informal, good-faith negotiation. If the
parties have not resolved the dispute within sixty (60) days of the respondent’s receipt of the
written notice of dispute, the parties will mutually schedule a settlement conference which must
occur within fourteen (14) days of the completion of the sixty (60) day period, unless otherwise
mutually agreed by the parties. Each party must personally appear at the settlement conference
(if a party is represented by counsel, their counsel may also participate), and appearances
may be made telephonically or by video. If the parties are unable to resolve the dispute at the
settlement conference, either party may commence arbitration or le a small claims court
proceeding. The statute of limitations and any ling fee deadlines will be tolled while the parties
engage in this informal dispute resolution process. If any aspect of the requirements in this
Subsection 9(a) has not been met, a court can enjoin the ling or prosecution of an arbitration
or the assessment of any arbitration fees. In addition, unless prohibited by law, the AAA cannot
accept or administer the arbitration, nor assess any fees for an arbitration that has not met the
requirements of this Subsection 9(a). If the arbitration already is pending, it must be dismissed.
If the dispute proceeds to arbitration, the complainant must personally attend all arbitration
conferences, hearings, and mediations scheduled by the AAA or by an arbitrator or mediator
appointed by the AAA. If the complainant is represented by counsel, the complainant’s counsel
may also participate, and all participation may be made telephonically or by video except
as directed by the arbitrator or mediator. If a complainant fails to personally appear at any
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 10. Venue and Waiver of Jury Trial
conference, hearing or mediation scheduled by the AAA or by an AAA arbitrator or mediator,
regardless of whether the complainant’s counsel attends, the arbitrator will administratively
close the arbitration proceeding without prejudice, unless the complainant shows good cause as
to why the complainant was not able to attend the conference, hearing, or mediation.
This arbitration will be conducted as a documents-only arbitration (i.e., there will be no in-person
or telephonic hearing) unless otherwise agreed by the parties or required by the arbitrator. If the
parties agree to or the arbitrator requires proceedings, such proceedings should be conducted at
a location which is reasonably convenient to both parties with due consideration of their ability
to travel and other pertinent circumstances. If the parties are unable to agree on a location, the
parties agree that the proceedings will be conducted via a video or telephonic call or, in the
event that face-to-face proceedings are agreed to by the parties or required by the arbitrator, at
a location that is reasonably convenient to both parties in accordance with the AAA Consumer
Arbitration Rules. The arbitrator may consider rulings in arbitrations involving other individuals,
but an arbitrator’s rulings will not be binding in proceedings involving dierent individuals. The
existence and content of the arbitration proceedings, including documents and briefs submitted by
the parties, any correspondence from the AAA, and correspondence, orders, and awards issued by
the arbitrator, will remain strictly condential and will not be disclosed to any third party without
the express written consent from the other party, unless disclosure to the third party is reasonably
required in the context of conducting the arbitration proceedings or related court proceedings.
For disputes meeting the denition of “Mass Arbitration” under the AAA Mass Arbitration
Supplementary Rules, the parties agree that the dispute is subject to the AAA’s Mass Arbitration
Supplementary Rules and the parties agree to the appointment of a Process Arbitrator, except as
may otherwise be decided by the arbitrator or the AAA.
The parties agree that the Federal Arbitration Act (“FAA”) 9 U.S.C. § 1 et seq. governs this
section, and it is the intent of the parties that the FAA will preempt all State laws to the fullest
extent permitted by law.
No arbitration may be maintained as a class or collective action; a party may only bring a claim
on their own behalf and cannot seek a relief that would aect other individuals. Unless all
parties agree otherwise, the arbitrator will not have the authority to consolidate the claims of
more than 1 individual, conduct any class or collective proceeding, make any class or collective
award, or make an award to any person or entity not a party to the arbitration, without the
express written consent of College Board.
Payment of all ling, administrative, and arbitrator fees and costs will be governed by the AAA’s
rules. If the arbitrator nds that either the substance of your claim or the relief sought was
frivolous or was brought for an improper purpose (as measured by the standards set forth in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 11(b)), then College Board may seek applicable fee-shifting.
b. Supplemental Arbitration Rules for the Score Validity Process (“Supplemental Arbitration Rules”)
If you receive a notice from College Board that your scores are subject to the Score Validity
Process, you may be provided with the option to choose arbitration. In addition to the General
Arbitration Rules, except as set forth herein, the below rules will apply.
The sole issue for the arbitrator to decide is whether College Board acted in good faith and
followed the Score Validity Process.
This arbitration will be based only on (i) the documents you submitted to College Board
pursuant to the Score Validity Process and (ii) College Board documents unless otherwise
agreed by the parties or required by the arbitrator.
If the arbitrator nds that College Board did not act in good faith in deciding to cancel your
scores, your scores will not be canceled (or they will be reinstated, if applicable).
All other disputes with College Board will be resolved solely by the General Arbitration Rules in
Section 9(a) above, except as set forth herein.
Section 10.
Venue and Waiver of Jury Trial
All disputes arising from or related to these Terms and Conditions that are not subject to the
terms under Section 9 shall be resolved exclusively in the state and federal courts located in
New York County, New York State, and each party to these Terms and Conditions irrevocably
consents to the jurisdiction of such courts. Each party expressly waives any right to a jury trial
in any lawsuit arising from or related to these Terms and Conditions.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
PSAT/NMSQT Testing Rules Section 11. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY
Section 11.
LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY
EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT FINALLY DETERMINED TO BE PROHIBITED BY LAW, THE
TOTAL LIABILITY OF COLLEGE BOARD AND ITS COSPONSOR TO YOU OR ANYONE
CLAIMING BY OR THROUGH YOU OR ON YOUR BEHALF, FOR ANY CLAIMS, LOSSES,
COSTS, OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR RESULTING FROM OR IN ANY WAY RELATED
TO COLLEGE BOARD, OR ANY TEST ADMINISTRATION BY COLLEGE BOARD, FROM
ANY CAUSE, SHALL NOT EXCEED THE TEST REGISTRATION FEES YOU PAID TO
COLLEGE BOARD (IF APPLICABLE) OR $100.00, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. IN ADDITION,
COLLEGE BOARD AND ITS COSPONSOR WILL NOT BE LIABLE IN ANY EVENT FOR ANY
CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY, OR SPECIAL DAMAGES.
Section 12.
Disclaimer of Warranties
COLLEGE BOARD MAKES NO WARRANTIES REGARDING THE PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT/
NMSQT CONTENT, OR THE APPLICATION INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION A
WARRANTY THAT THE TESTING EXPERIENCE WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR
FREE. YOU ACCEPT THE PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT/NMSQT CONTENT, AND TESTING
APPLICATION AS IS.
Section 13.
Severability
If any provision or part of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable,
the remaining provisions will nevertheless continue in full force without being impaired or
invalidated in any way, and, to the extent possible, the invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision
shall be modied so that it is valid, legal, and enforceable and, to the fullest extent, reects the
intention of the parties.
Section 14.
Restricted Registrations
College Board, along with our service providers overseas, is subject to U.S. economic sanctions,
laws, and regulations and is prohibited from providing testing services to, or accepting
registrations from, persons residing in certain areas or designated by the U.S. government as
Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (collectively, “Sanctioned Persons”),
unless specically licensed or otherwise authorized by the U.S. government. You consent to
use of your personally identiable information by College Board to verify whether you are a
Sanctioned Person. If a Sanctioned Person attempts to register despite U.S. sanctions that
prohibit College Board from doing business with such Sanctioned Person, College Board
or a U.S. nancial institution may block the registration or payments submitted by or for
such Sanctioned Persons. If payment is not blocked, College Board is required to cancel the
registration and may not be able to refund the payment. Please contact PSAT/NMSQT Customer
Service at 866-433-7728 (+1-212-713-8105 internationally) or the website of the U.S. Treasury
Department’s Oce of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to obtain the current list of sanctioned
programs and Sanctioned Persons.
Section 15.
Accessibility of These Terms and Conditions
If you have diculty accessing these Terms and Conditions, including our policies and
requirements, please contact College Board Customer Service at 866-433-7728 (+1-212-713-8105
internationally) or satsuite.collegeboard.org/contact-us in advance of registering for or taking
the PSAT/NMSQT. We will be happy to provide these Terms and Conditions in an alternative
format or assist you in some other manner as reasonably necessary to enable you to access
these Terms and Conditions.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
National Merit Scholarship Program Overview
Overview
The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual academic competition among high school
students for recognition and college scholarships that began in 1955. The program is conducted
by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®), a not-for-profit organization that operates
without government assistance. United States high school students enter the National Merit
Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit® Scholarship Qualifying Test
(PSAT/NMSQT®), which serves as an initial screen of over 1.3 million entrants each year, and by
meeting published program entry and participation requirements.
To enter the National Merit Scholarship Program and compete for recognition and
7,580 scholarships to be offered in 2026:
Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October 2024.
Meet other program entry requirements.
The 2024 PSAT/NMSQT is the qualifying test for entry to the 2026 program. Program entrants
must take the test in the specified year of the high school program (see When to Take the Test on
page 34). Most entrants will complete high school and enroll in college in 2026.
Important information about the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program:
Steps in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Competition
2026 Competition Begins in 2024
Entry Requirements
When to Take the Test
Eligibility Verication
Program Recognition
PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index
Commended Students
Seminalists
Finalists
Choosing Scholarship Winners
Types of Scholarships
National Merit $2500 Scholarships
Corporate-sponsored Scholarships
College-sponsored Merit Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsors
Corporations, Business Organizations, and Individual Donors
Colleges and Universities
Have questions?
WEBSITE: www.nationalmerit.org
PHONE: 847-866-5100
ADDRESS: National Merit Scholarship Corporation
1560 Sherman Avenue, Suite 200
Evanston, IL 60201-4897
National Merit
®
Scholarship Program
National Merit
®
Scholarship Program
conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC
®
)
National Merit Scholarship Program Overview
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Steps in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Competition
Steps in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Competition
1,300,000 ENTRANTS
In October 2024, U.S. high school students who take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test
(PSAT/NMSQT®) and meet other program requirements will enter the 2026 competition for National Merit® Scholarship
Program recognition and scholarships. Nearly all program participants (entrants) will be juniors planning to enter college in
2026. NMSC® uses PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index scores (calculated from the Reading and Writing, and Math section scores)
to determine 50,000 high-scoring participants who qualify for program recognition.
50,000 HIGH SCORERS
In April 2025, NMSC will send a list of high-scoring participants to high school principals and ask them to identify any errors
or changes in the reported eligibility of students whose scores will qualify them for recognition in the fall of 2025.
PARTICIPANTS WHO QUALIFY FOR NATIONAL MERIT PROGRAM RECOGNITION
34,000 COMMENDED STUDENTS
In late September 2025, more than two-thirds of the 50,000
high scorers will be notied through their high schools that
they have qualied as Commended Students. NMSC will
provide Letters of Commendation for schools to present to
these students in recognition of their outstanding academic
promise. Although Commended Students will not continue
in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, some
may be candidates for Special Scholarships provided by
corporate and business sponsors (see below).
16,000 SEMIFINALISTS
In early September 2025, about one-third of the 50,000
high scorers will be notied that they have qualied as
Seminalists—the highest-scoring entrants in each state.
NMSC will notify them through their schools and provide
scholarship application materials explaining requirements
to advance in the competition for National Merit
Scholarships to be oered in 2026.
15,000 FINALISTS
In February 2026, Seminalists who meet academic
and other requirements will be notied that they have
advanced to Finalist standing and will receive Certicates
of Merit attesting to their recognition in the program.
All National Merit Scholarship winners (Merit Scholar®
awardees) will be chosen from this group of Finalists
based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments.
SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
710 SPECIAL SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Beginning in March 2026, NMSC will notify winners of
Special Scholarships provided by corporate sponsors.
Scholarship recipients will be chosen from candidates
who will be sent scholarship application materials
through their high schools in November 2025. Although
not Finalists, scholarship recipients will be outstanding
students who meet their sponsors’ eligibility criteria.
Sponsors will handle public announcement of their Special
Scholarship winners.
6,870 MERIT SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
Beginning in March 2026, NMSC will notify winners of the
three types of National Merit Scholarships:
National Merit® $2500 Scholarships
Corporate-sponsored scholarships
College-sponsored scholarships
In April, May, June, and July, NMSC will release names
of Merit Scholar designees to news media for public
announcement.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
2026 Competition Begins in 2024
2026 Competition Begins in 2024
The 2024 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) is the
qualifying test for entry to the 2026 National Merit® Program. (The PSAT™10 and PSAT™8/9 will
NOT be considered for entry to the National Merit Scholarship Program.) The competition will
span about 18 months from entry in the fall of 2024 until the spring of 2026 when scholarships
for college undergraduate study will be awarded. It is expected that about 3.5 million students will
take the PSAT/NMSQT in 2024, and approximately 1.3 million of them will meet requirements
to enter this program.
Entry Requirements
To enter the 2026 National Merit Program, you need to meet all of the following requirements.
You must:
1. be enrolled as a high school student (traditional or homeschooled), progressing normally
toward graduation or completion of high school by 2026, and planning to accept admission
to college no later than the fall of 2026;
2. attend high school in the United States, District of Columbia, or U.S. commonwealths and
territories; or meet the citizenship requirements for students attending high school outside
the United States (see the box at the bottom of the page); and
3. take the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT in the specied year of the high school program and no later
than the third year in grades 9 through 12, regardless of grade classication or educational
pattern (explained in When to Take the Test on page 34).
During the digital readiness check, you will be asked the following three questions to
determine entry to the National Merit Scholarship Program:
1. Are you enrolled as a high school student (traditional or homeschooled)?
A. Ye s B. No
2. When will you complete or leave high school and enroll full-time in college?
A. 2025
B. 2026
C. 2027
D. Aer 2027
E. Not planning to
attend college
3. How many total years will you spend in grades 9–12?
A. 1 year
B. 2 years
C. 3 years
D. 4 years
E. 5 or more years
If you are testing outside the United States, you will also be asked the following question:
4. Are you a citizen of the United States?
A. Ye s B. No
C. No, but I am a U.S. lawful permanent resident (or have applied for permanent
residence, the application for which has not been denied) and I intend to
become a U.S. citizen at the earliest opportunity allowed by law.
Students Attending High School Outside the United States
To be eligible for the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program, a student attending high school
outside the United States must be a citizen of the United States; or be a U.S. lawful permanent
resident (or have applied for permanent residence, the application for which has not been denied)
and intend to become a U.S. citizen at the earliest opportunity allowed by law.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Entry Requirements When to Take the Test
When to Take the Test
To participate in the National Merit Program, you must take the PSAT/NMSQT in the specified
year of your high school program. Because you can participate (and be considered for a scholarship)
in only one specific competition year, the year in which you take the PSAT/NMSQT to enter the
competition is very important.
1. If you plan to spend the usual four years in high school (grades 9 through 12) before
entering college full-time, you must take the qualifying test in your third year of high school
(grade 11, junior year).
Sophomores who take the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT but plan to spend four years in grades
9 through 12 will not meet entry requirements for the 2026 National Merit Program.
They must take the PSAT/NMSQT again in 2025 (when they are juniors) to enter the
competition that will end when scholarships are awarded in 2027, the year they will
complete high school and enter college.
2. If you plan to leave high school early to enroll in college full-time aer spending three years
or less in grades 9 through 12, you usually can participate in the National Merit Program if
you take the PSAT/NMSQT before you nish high school. To enter the competition for awards
oered in 2026, you must be in either the next-to-last or the last year of high school when
you take the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT:
a. if you are in the next-to-last year of high school when you take the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT,
awards will be oered as you are nishing your last year of high school; or
b. if you are in your last year of high school when you take the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT, awards
will be oered the year aer you have completed high school.
3. If you are dual enrolled in both high school and college, you must take the qualifying test
in your third year of high school (grade 11, junior year). To enter the competition that ends
when scholarships are oered in 2026, you must be in your third year of high school when
you take the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT, the same as all other students who plan to spend four years
in grades 9 through 12. Your high school determines whether you are dual enrolled.
4. If you plan to take ve years to complete grades 9 through 12, you can participate in the
National Merit Program if you take the PSAT/NMSQT in your third year of high school and
again in the fourth year. Your Selection Index score will not be eligible for the program until a
written request for entry to the competition is approved by NMSC. e request should include
your name, high school name and location, year you began high school, year you will complete
high school, and a brief explanation of your educational pattern.
NMSC will use your Selection Index score from the PSAT/NMSQT taken in your third year
of grades 9 through 12 to determine the expected level of recognition. In order to be recognized
in your fifth (final) year of high school, you must take the PSAT/NMSQT again in your fourth
year and earn a qualifying Selection Index score at or above the level achieved on your third year
test. The level of recognition you receive cannot exceed the level earned on the qualifying test
taken during your third year in grades 9 through 12, the year in which all other competitors are
considered.
NOTE: If your high school standing and enrollment do not t one of the preceding descriptions or if
you have any questions about when to take the PSAT/NMSQT for National Merit Program entry,
contact NMSC immediately.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Entry Requirements Eligibility Verication
Unable to Take the PSAT/NMSQT?
If you do not take the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT because of illness, an emergency, or other extenuating
circumstance, you may still be able to enter the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program.
If the PSAT/NMSQT testing window has not yet closed, see Special Considerations on
page 5. You may be able to take the PSAT/NMSQT on another date or at another high school.
If the PSAT/NMSQT testing window has closed, write to NMSC as soon as possible but
no later than April 1, 2025, to request another route of entry to the 2026 National Merit
Scholarship Program.
The alternate entry request should include your name and home address, the contact
information of the person making the request, the name and address of your high school,
and a brief explanation of why you were unable to take the PSAT/NMSQT. Do not delay;
the earlier you write, the more options you will have for scheduling test dates.
Mail your request to:
National Merit Scholarship Corporation
Attn: Scholarship Administration
1560 Sherman Avenue, Suite 200
Evanston, IL 60201-4897
Your letter must be postmarked on or before April 1, 2025, for your request to be considered.
Removing Your Score from NMSC Consideration
If you felt your test performance was negatively affected for any reason and you do not want
your 2024 PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index score used for participation in the 2026 National
Merit Program, you must contact NMSC immediately, but no later than 10 days following
the test administration, to submit a formal request. Requests received after 10 days will not
be considered.
Eligibility Verication
The NMSC section of the PSAT/NMSQT Score Report shows your responses to the entry
requirements questions and whether your Selection Index score will be considered for the National
Merit Scholarship Program. You are encouraged to review this section of your score report carefully.
If your score report indicates that you do not meet entry requirements for the 2026 National Merit
Scholarship Program, you may have missing or incorrect responses to the entry requirements
questions that were asked during exam setup. If that is the case, you may update your responses
with NMSC using the online form at www.nationalmerit.org/studentupdate.
If your name, address, high school enrollment, or other information is inaccurate on your
PSAT/NMSQT Score Report, please contact NMSC immediately.
All requests to update records for the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program must be submitted
no later than October 15, 2025.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Program Recognition PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index
Program Recognition
PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index
The PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index score is calculated using a student’s section scores and the
following formula:
2RW + M
10
= Selection Index score
NMSC uses PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index scores as an initial screen of some 1.3 million program
entrants. The 2024 Selection Index scores of all students who meet entry requirements for the
2026 program will be considered. In the spring of 2025, NMSC will ask high school principals
to identify any errors or changes in the reported eligibility of their high scorers (students whose
Selection Index scores will qualify them for recognition in the fall of 2025).
Commended Students
In September 2025, more than two-thirds (about 34,000) of the high scorers will be designated
Commended Students. They will be named on the basis of a nationally applied Selection Index
qualifying score that may vary from year to year.
In recognition of their outstanding ability and potential for academic success in college,
NMSC will honor these students by sending Letters of Commendation to them through their high
schools. Although Commended Students will not continue in the competition for National Merit
Scholarships, some may be candidates for Special Scholarships offered by corporate sponsors
(see Corporate-sponsored Scholarships on page 39). NMSC will notify those candidates in
November 2025.
Seminalists
More than 16,000 of the high scorers, representing less than 1% of the nation’s high school graduating
seniors, will qualify as Semifinalists. Only Semifinalists will have an opportunity to advance in
the competition for Merit Scholarship® awards. NMSC will notify Semifinalists of their standing
and send scholarship application materials to them through their high schools in September
2025. Their names will be sent to regionally accredited four-year U.S. colleges and universities
and released to local news media for public announcement in mid-September.
NMSC designates Semifinalists in the program on a state-representational basis to ensure that
academically accomplished young people from all parts of the United States are included in this
talent pool. Using the latest data available, an allocation of Semifinalists is determined for each state,
based on the state’s percentage of the national total of high school graduating seniors. For example,
the number of Semifinalists in a state that enrolls approximately 2% of the nation’s graduating seniors
would be about 320 (2% of the 16,000 Semifinalists).
NMSC then arranges the Selection Index scores of all National Merit Program participants within
a state in descending order. The score at which a state’s allocation is most closely filled becomes the
Semifinalist qualifying score. Entrants with a Selection Index score at or above the qualifying score
are named Semifinalists. As a result of this process, Semifinalist qualifying scores vary from state to
state and from year to year, but the scores of all Semifinalists are extremely high.
In addition to Semifinalists designated in each of the 50 states and without affecting the allocation
to any state, Semifinalists are named in several other selection units that NMSC establishes for the
competition. These units are for students attending schools in the District of Columbia, schools in U.S.
commonwealths and territories, schools in other countries that enroll U.S. citizens, and U.S. boarding
schools that enroll a sizable proportion of their students from outside the state in which the school is
located. A participant can be considered for Semifinalist standing in only one state or selection unit,
based on the high school in which the student is regularly enrolled when taking the PSAT/NMSQT.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Program Recognition Finalists
Finalists
A Semifinalist must fulfill several additional requirements and advance to the Finalist level of the
competition before being considered for a National Merit Scholarship. About 95% (over 15,000)
of the Semifinalists are expected to become Finalists and receive a Certificate of Merit attesting to
their distinguished performance in the competition.
To qualify as a Finalist, a Semifinalist must:
1. continue to meet all program entry requirements (explained in Entry Requirements on
page 33);
2. be enrolled in the last year of high school and planning to enroll full-time in college
the following fall, or be enrolled in the rst year of college if grades 9 through 12 were
completed in three years or less;
3. be fully endorsed for Finalist standing and recommended for a National Merit Scholarship
by the high school principal;
4. have a record of consistently very high academic performance in all of grades 9 through
12 and in any college course work taken (the high school must provide a complete record
of courses taken and grades earned by the student, as well as information about the
school’s curriculum and grading system);
5. complete the National Merit Scholarship Application with all information requested,
which includes writing an essay;
6. take the SAT® or ACT and earn scores that conrm the PSAT/NMSQT performance that
resulted in Seminalist standing; and
7. provide any other documentation and information that NMSC requests.
Choosing Scholarship Winners
Only Finalists will be considered for the National Merit Scholarships. Approximately half of the
Finalists will be Merit Scholarship winners (Merit Scholar awardees). Winners are chosen on
the basis of their abilities, skills, and accomplishments—without regard to gender, race, ethnic
origin, or religious preference. Scholarship recipients are the candidates judged to have the greatest
potential for success in rigorous college studies and beyond.
To receive a scholarship payment, a Merit Scholarship winner must notify NMSC of plans to
(a) enroll in a college or university in the United States that holds accredited status with a regional
accrediting commission on higher education, and (b) enroll full-time in an undergraduate course of
study leading to a traditional baccalaureate degree. NMSC scholarship stipends are not payable for
attendance at service academies or certain institutions that are limited in their purposes or training.
The selection process involves evaluating substantial amounts of information about Finalists
obtained from both students and their high schools. Included are the Finalist’s academic record (course
load and difficulty level, depth and breadth of subjects studied, and grades earned); PSAT/NMSQT
scores; the student’s essay; demonstrated leadership and contributions to school and community
activities; and the school official’s written recommendation and characterization of the Finalist.
The same process is used to select Special Scholarship winners for a corporate sponsor’s awards.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Types of Scholarships National Merit $2500 Scholarships
Types of Scholarships
Some 6,870 National Merit Scholarships of three types and approximately 710 Special Scholarships
will be awarded in 2026; these 7,580 awards will have a combined value of over $33 million.
Different types of scholarships will be offered, but no student can receive more than one monetary
award from NMSC.
National Merit $2500 Scholarships
These awards are unique because every Finalist is considered for one and winners are named
in every state and other selection unit. The number awarded in each state is determined by the
same representational procedure used to designate Semifinalists. Finalists compete with all other
Finalists in their state or selection unit for one of the 2,500 National Merit® $2500 Scholarships.
Winners are selected by a committee of college admission officers and high school counselors.
National Merit $2500 Scholarships provide a single payment of $2,500. NMSC’s own funds
support the majority of these scholarships, but corporate sponsors help underwrite these awards
with grants they provide to NMSC in lieu of paying administrative fees. Donations made to NMSC’s
President’s Fund also provide funding for National Merit $2500 Scholarship awards.
SCHOLARSHIPS OFFERED
Who is considered? What is the monetary value?
Who selects
winners?
When does NMSC
begin sending
scholarship oers?
National Merit®
$2500 Scholarships
All Finalists compete with all
other Finalists in their state
or other selection unit.
Awards provide a one-time
payment of $2,500.
A committee of
college admission
ocers and high
school counselors
Late March
Corporate-sponsored
Merit Scholarships
Finalists who meet criteria
specied by a corporate
sponsor, usually:
children of employees;
residents of specic
communities; or
Finalists with certain
college major or career
plans
Varies by sponsor—awards
can be a one-time payment
ranging from $2,500 to
$5,000 or renewable awards
that range from $1,000 to
$10,000 per year.
NMSC’s
professional sta
Early March
Corporate-sponsored
Special Scholarships
High-performing
program participants
(although not Finalists)
who meet a sponsor’s criteria;
most are for:
children of employees; or
residents of specic
communities
Varies by sponsor—awards
can be a one-time payment
ranging from $2,500 to
$5,000 or renewable awards
that range from $1,000 to
$10,000 per year.
NMSC’s
professional sta
Early March
College-sponsored
Merit Scholarships
Finalists who plan to attend
a sponsor college and have
informed NMSC that the
sponsor college is their rst
choice
Varies by sponsor—awards
are renewable for four years
of study at the sponsor
institution. Stipends range
from $500 to $2,000 per year.
Ocials of each
sponsor college
Early May
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Types of Scholarships Corporate-sponsored Scholarships
Corporate-sponsored Scholarships
In 2024, about 130 corporations, company foundations, and businesses sponsored scholarships
through the National Merit Program as part of their educational philanthropy. These sponsors
committed nearly $13 million to support approximately 770 corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship
awards and 710 Special Scholarships for children of employees, or for other accomplished students
who meet the sponsor’s criteria.
The number of National Merit Scholarships a company or business offers annually may range
from one to more than 100. Finalists who meet a sponsor’s criteria are identified from information
Semifinalists supply on their scholarship applications. Winners are selected from this pool based on
their abilities, skills, and accomplishments. The scholarship name usually identifies the grantor—for
example, National Merit XYZ Company Scholarship.
Over two-thirds of the program’s corporate sponsors also provide Special Scholarships.
Organizations that sponsor Special Scholarships make Entry Forms available to children of employees
or members, or to students with qualifications of interest to the sponsor. Entry Forms are completed
by students (and their parents, if applicable). If the number of Finalists eligible for a sponsor’s awards
is smaller than the number of awards the corporate organization wishes to offer, NMSC establishes a
pool of candidates to compete for the remaining awards (Special Scholarships). These candidates are
the highest scoring students who filed Entry Forms with the sponsoring organization but were not
named Finalists. NMSC sends Special Scholarship application materials to these candidates through
their high schools.
Each corporate sponsor specifies the monetary limits of scholarships it finances and decides
whether the awards provide one-time payments or fixed stipends that can be renewed for up to four
years of college undergraduate study. (See chart in National Merit $2500 Scholarships on page 38.)
College-sponsored Merit Scholarships
In the 2026 competition, it is expected that about 3,600 National Merit Scholarships will be
offered to Finalists who plan to attend a sponsor college or university. (See the list of about 150
colleges that are currently Merit Scholarship sponsors in Colleges and Universities on page 48.)
A college-sponsored scholarship is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study at the
sponsor institution. It cannot be transferred; therefore, it is canceled if a winner does not attend
the college financing the award.
Officials of each sponsor institution choose award recipients from among Finalists who have
been accepted for admission and have informed NMSC that the sponsor college or university is
their first choice. Each college sponsor chooses the annual stipend their institution offers to award
recipients, within a range of $500 to $2,000 per year. All college-sponsored scholarship recipients at
the institution will receive the same stipend amount as determined by the college.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Corporations, Business Organizations, and Individual Donors
Scholarship Sponsors
Approximately 280 independent organizations and institutions sponsor more than two-thirds
of the National Merit Scholarships offered each year. All Special Scholarships are sponsored by
business organizations that also support Merit Scholarship awards.
Corporations, Business Organizations,
and Individual Donors
Following is a list of corporate organizations and individuals that currently sponsor scholarships in
the National Merit Program with any eligibility criteria that apply to candidates for their awards.
An asterisk (*) indicates the sponsor offers Special Scholarships in addition to National Merit
Scholarships and requires students or their families to file Entry Forms.
The number of awards shown is an estimate of the yearly total, and neither the sponsor nor NMSC
is obligated to offer these scholarships in 2025, 2026, or beyond.
A
* Acushnet Company–3 awards for children of employees of the company and its
subsidiaries.
Adient Foundation Inc.–3 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of
Adient US LLC.
* ADP Foundation–40 awards for children of employees of ADP.
* Albany International–2 awards for children of employees of the company and
its subsidiaries.
* Ameren Corporation Charitable Trust–6 awards for children of employees of
Ameren Corporation.
American Air Liquide Holdings, Inc–5 awards for Finalists who are children of
employees of the corporation and its subsidiaries.
* American City Business Journals, Inc.–2 awards for children of employees of the
corporation.
American Electric Power Company–5 awards for Finalists who are children of employees
of the corporation and its subsidiaries.
* e AMETEK Foundation–10 awards for children of employees of AMETEK, Inc. and
its subsidiaries.
* Aon Foundation–15 awards for children of employees of Aon and its subsidiaries.
* Arkema Inc. Foundation–4 awards for children of employees of Arkema Inc. and its
subsidiaries.
Ascension–20 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the organization
and its eligible subsidiaries.
Aspen Technology, Inc.–3 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the
corporation and its eligible subsidiaries.
* Astellas US LLC–2 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its eligible
aliates.
* AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP–36 awards for children of employees of
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP and its eligible aliated companies.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Corporations, Business Organizations, and Individual Donors
41
is corporate sponsor * oers Special Scholarships in addition to Merit Scholarship
awards, and Entry Forms must be led with the sponsor.
B
BASF Corporation–Up to 20 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the
corporation and its subsidiaries.
Battelle–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of the company will be oered an
award.
Bentley Systems, Incorporated–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of the
corporation will be oered an award.
Mary E. Beyerle Trust–7 awards for Finalists from Maryland, New Jersey, and
Pennsylvania.
BNSF Railway Foundation–Up to 10 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of
BNSF Corporation and its subsidiaries.
e Boeing Company–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of the company or a
subsidiary will be oered an award.
* Brady Corporation–5 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its eligible
subsidiaries.
* Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund–Up to 50 awards for children of employees and
retirees of Bridgestone Americas, Inc., and its participating subsidiaries.
* Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation–50 awards for children of employees of Bristol Myers
Squibb’s U.S. divisions and subsidiaries.
* Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.–6 awards for children of employees of the
corporation and its qualifying subsidiaries.
* Brown & Brown, Inc.–10 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
eligible subsidiaries.
* Bunge–4 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its eligible subsidiaries;
the awards are distributed among employment groups.
* Bunzl USA, LLC–5 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
subsidiaries.
C
* Carlisle Companies Incorporated–2 awards for children of employees of the corporation
and its subsidiaries; the awards are distributed among employment groups.
* Carpenter Technology Corporation–4 awards for children of employees of the
corporation and its subsidiaries.
* CDK Global, LLC–6 awards for children of employees of the corporation.
* Cencora, Inc.–8 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its subsidiaries.
Chevron U.S.A. Inc.–5 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the
corporation and its aliated companies.
e Child Family–2 awards for Finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program.
* Colgate-Palmolive Company–20 awards for children of employees of the company and its
subsidiaries.
* Commvault Systems, Inc.–2 awards for children of employees of the corporation.
* Computer Aid, Inc.–2 awards for children of employees of CAI and its eligible
subsidiaries.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Corporations, Business Organizations, and Individual Donors
42
is corporate sponsor * oers Special Scholarships in addition to Merit Scholarship
awards, and Entry Forms must be led with the sponsor.
* Corning Incorporated–5 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
subsidiaries; the awards are distributed among employment groups.
* Crum & Forster–10 awards for children of employees of the company.
CSX Corporation–5 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the corporation
and its eligible subsidiaries.
D
* Dollar Tree, Inc.–Up to 20 awards for children of employees of the corporation and
its eligible divisions; the awards are distributed among employment groups.
Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation–1 award for a Finalist from a designated
county in South Carolina.
E
* Eaton Charitable Fund–15 awards for children of employees of Eaton Corporation.
* ECMS–3 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its subsidiaries.
Ellucian Company L.P.–2 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the
company.
Emerson Charitable Trust–10 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of
Emerson Electric Co. and its subsidiaries.
* e Estée Lauder Companies Inc.–3 awards for children of employees of the corporation
and its U.S. aliates and subsidiaries.
* Eversource Energy Foundation, Inc.–10 awards for children of employees of the company
or its subsidiaries.
F
* FedEx Custom Critical, Inc.–4 awards—2 awards for children of employees; 2 awards for
children and grandchildren of contractors.
* FedEx Express Corporation–12 awards—6 awards for the children of package handlers; 6
awards for the children of non-package handlers.
* FedEx Freight Corporation–20 awards for children of employees of the corporation.
* Fih ird Foundation–25 awards for children of employees of Fih ird Bank.
Fluor Foundation–4 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of Fluor and its
eligible subsidiaries.
* FMC Corporation–4 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
subsidiaries.
Formosa Plastics Corporation, U.S.A.–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of
the corporation or an aliated organization will be oered an award.
* Fox News Channel, LLC–2 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
eligible subsidiaries.
FTS International, LLC–1 award for a Finalist from either Washington, DC, or Denver,
Colorado, metropolitan areas planning to pursue certain college majors.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Corporations, Business Organizations, and Individual Donors
43
is corporate sponsor * oers Special Scholarships in addition to Merit Scholarship
awards, and Entry Forms must be led with the sponsor.
G
* GAF–2 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its subsidiaries;
the awards are distributed among divisions.
* Gates Industrial Corporation Foundation–Up to 10 awards for children of employees of
Gates Industrial Corporation and its subsidiaries; the awards are distributed among the
employment base.
GEICO Philanthropic Foundation–3 awards for Finalists who are children of associates of
GEICO Corporation and its subsidiaries.
General Dynamics Corporation–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of the
corporation or a subsidiary will be oered an award.
* General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems–2 awards for children of employees
of the corporation and its subsidiaries.
* Gleason Family Foundation–Up to 8 awards for children of employees and retirees of
Gleason Corporation and its U.S. subsidiaries and divisions.
* Global Tungsten & Powders LLC–2 awards for children of employees of Global Tungsten
& Powders LLC and Plansee Group Functions America’s Corp.
* W.W. Grainger, Inc.–12 awards—10 awards for children of employees of the corporation
and its U.S. subsidiaries; 2 awards for Finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program.
* Greyhound Lines, Inc.–Up to 6 awards for children of employees of the corporation and
its subsidiaries.
H
* Hormel Foods Corporation Charitable Trust–18 awards for children of employees of
Hormel Foods Corporation and its subsidiaries.
* e Hubbell Foundation–4 awards for children of employees of Hubbell Incorporated
and its subsidiaries.
* Hunter Industries Incorporated–2 awards for children of employees of the corporation
and its subsidiaries.
I
* Illinois Tool Works Inc.–Up to 30 awards for children of employees of ITW and its
subsidiaries.
* Ingalls Shipbuilding Division of Huntington Ingalls Industries–4 awards for children
of employees of Ingalls Shipbuilding.
* Insperity Services, L.P.–4 awards—2 awards for children of corporate employees;
2 awards for children of worksite employees.
J
* J. Walter ompson Company Fund, Inc.–4 awards for children of employees of
Wunderman ompson and its subsidiaries.
* John Bean Technologies Corporation–2 awards for children of employees of JBT
Corporation and its subsidiaries.
* Johnson & Johnson Services Inc.–20 awards for children of employees of the corporation
and its business units.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Corporations, Business Organizations, and Individual Donors
44
is corporate sponsor * oers Special Scholarships in addition to Merit Scholarship
awards, and Entry Forms must be led with the sponsor.
K
* Kaman Corporation–3 awards for children of employees of the corporation and
its subsidiaries.
L
L3Harris Technologies–2 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the
company and its subsidiaries.
* LANXESS Corporation–5 awards for children of employees of LANXESS Corporation,
LANXESS Solutions, Great Lakes Chemical Corporation, and each corporation’s respective
subsidiaries.
Leidos, Inc.–10 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the corporation or
its subsidiaries.
* Liberty Mutual Scholarship Foundation–50 awards for children of employees of
Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and its subsidiaries.
* Loews Corporation–4 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
divisions and wholly owned subsidiaries.
* LPL Financial LLC–6 awards for children of associates of the corporation and its eligible
subsidiaries.
e Lubrizol Foundation–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of e Lubrizol
Corporation, Lubrizol Specialty Products, Inc., and their eligible subsidiaries will be
oered an award.
M
* Mannington Mills, Inc.–2 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
eligible subsidiaries.
* Marsh McLennan–25 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its subsidiaries.
* McGraw Hill LLC–4 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its aliates.
Mead Witter Foundation, Inc.–2 awards for Finalists from specied geographic areas of
Wisconsin.
e MITRE Corporation–4 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the
corporation.
Motorola Solutions Foundation–10 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of
Motorola Solutions, Inc., or its subsidiaries.
N
National Distillers Distributors Foundation–7 awards for Finalists in the National Merit
Scholarship Program.
* (National Gypsum Company) C. D. Spangler Foundation, Inc.–2 awards for children of
employees of National Gypsum Company and its subsidiaries.
* Nationwide Foundation–10 awards for children of employees of Nationwide Insurance
Companies and certain aliates and associated companies.
* New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Company–At least 3 awards for children of
employees of New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Group.
* e NewMarket Foundation–2 awards for children of employees of NewMarket
Corporation and its subsidiaries.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Corporations, Business Organizations, and Individual Donors
45
is corporate sponsor * oers Special Scholarships in addition to Merit Scholarship
awards, and Entry Forms must be led with the sponsor.
* NextEra Energy Foundation, Inc.–10 awards for children of employees of NextEra
Energy, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
* NiSource Charitable Foundation–15 awards for children of employees of NiSource
and its subsidiaries.
Norfolk Southern Foundation–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee or retiree
of Norfolk Southern Corporation or an aliated company will be oered an award.
* Northrop Grumman Corporation–55 awards for children of employees of the
corporation and its subsidiaries.
NOV Inc.–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of the corporation and its eligible
subsidiaries will be oered an award.
* Novartis US Foundation–20 awards for children of employees of Novartis Corporation
and its subsidiaries and divisions.
* Novo Nordisk Inc.–3 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
participating aliates.
NVIDIA Corporation–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of the corporation
or an eligible subsidiary will be oered an award.
O
Occidental Petroleum Corporation–6 awards for Finalists who are children of employees
of the corporation or an eligible division or subsidiary.
* Omron Foundation, Inc.–5 awards for children of employees of Omron.
Owens Corning Foundation–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of
Owens Corning will be oered an award.
P
* Paramount Global–5 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
eligible subsidiaries.
Parker Hannin Foundation–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of Parker
Hannin Corporation or a subsidiary will be oered an award.
e PepsiCo Foundation, Inc.–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of PepsiCo,
Inc., or a division, subsidiary, or aliate will be oered an award.
* Pzer Inc.–50 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its subsidiaries.
* Pilkington North America, Inc.–2 awards for children of employees of the corporation
and its subsidiaries.
* PPG Foundation–57 awards—Up to 35 awards for children of employees of PPG and its
subsidiaries; 22 awards for residents of communities where PPG has operations.
Principal Life Insurance Company–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of
the company or an aliate will be oered an award.
Public Service Enterprise Group–2 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of
Public Service Enterprise Group or its subsidiaries.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Corporations, Business Organizations, and Individual Donors
46
is corporate sponsor * oers Special Scholarships in addition to Merit Scholarship
awards, and Entry Forms must be led with the sponsor.
R
* Research Triangle Institute–2 awards for children of employees of the institute.
* Reynolds American Foundation–Up to 20 awards for children of employees of Reynolds
American Inc. and its eligible subsidiaries.
* Rheem Manufacturing Company–5 awards for children of employees of the company
and its subsidiaries.
Robert Half Inc.–2 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the corporation
and its eligible subsidiaries.
Rockwell Automation Charitable Corporation–5 awards for Finalists who are children
of employees of Rockwell Automation and its subsidiaries.
RSM US LLP–2 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the corporation and
its eligible subsidiaries.
S
* Schindler Elevator Corporation–5 awards for children of employees of the corporation.
* Schneider Electric North America Foundation–20 awards for children of employees of
Schneider Electric North America.
* Sensient Technologies Foundation–3 awards for children of employees of Sensient
Technologies Corporation and its divisions and subsidiaries.
* Sentry Insurance Foundation, Inc.–5 awards for children of employees of Sentry
Insurance Group and its eligible subsidiaries.
Siemens Foundation–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of Siemens
Corporation or an eligible aliated company will be oered an award.
* Snap-on Incorporated–6 awards for children of employees and dealers of the corporation.
Sogeti USA–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of the corporation will be
oered an award.
* Sony Electronics Inc.–3 awards for children of employees of Sony Electronics Inc. and
Sony Corporation of America.
South Carolina Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center–2 awards—rst preference for
Finalists who are children of employees of the practice; second preference for Finalists
from the Greater Charleston area of South Carolina.
Southern Company Services, Inc.–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of
Southern Company or a subsidiary will be oered an award.
Specialty Materials Inc–2 awards for Finalists from Massachusetts or New Hampshire
planning to major in materials engineering or materials science.
Spirit AeroSystems, Inc.–7 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the
corporation and its eligible subsidiaries.
* State Farm Companies Foundation–100 awards for children of employees and insurance
agents of State Farm Companies.
* Suburban Propane, L.P.–3 awards for children of employees of the company.
* Synthomer Foundation–3 awards for children of employees of Synthomer plc.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Corporations, Business Organizations, and Individual Donors
47
is corporate sponsor * oers Special Scholarships in addition to Merit Scholarship
awards, and Entry Forms must be led with the sponsor.
T
Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America–15 awards for Finalists who
are children of employees of TIAA and its eligible subsidiaries.
Texas Instruments Foundation–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee or retiree
of Texas Instruments Incorporated will be oered an award.
* Textron Charitable Trust–10 awards for children of employees of Textron, Inc.
and its subsidiaries.
* 3M Company–40 awards for children of employees of the company and its aliates
and subsidiaries.
* e Travelers Employees’ Club–10 awards for children of members of e Travelers
Employees’ Club.
* Tredegar Corporation–3 awards for children of employees of the corporation and its
subsidiaries.
* Truist Financial Corporation–30 awards for children of employees of the corporation.
TTEC Foundation–2 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of TTEC
Holdings, Inc.
U
United Services Automobile Association–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee
of the company will be oered an award.
* e UPS Foundation–180 awards—150 awards for children of full-time employees and 30
awards for children of part-time employees of UPS and its subsidiaries.
* USG Foundation, Inc.–8 awards for children of employees of USG Corporation and its
subsidiaries.
V
ViaSat, Inc.–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of the corporation will be
oered an award.
* Vulcan Materials Company Foundation–3 awards for children of employees of Vulcan
Materials Company and its subsidiaries.
W
Walgreen Co.–Every Finalist who is the child of an employee of the company will be
oered an award.
Waste Management National Services Inc.–Every Finalist who is the child of an
employee of Waste Management National Services Inc.’s family of companies will be
oered an award.
Westlake–2 awards for Finalists who are children of employees of the corporation and its
eligible subsidiaries.
X–Z
* Zoetis Inc.–5 awards for children of colleagues of the corporation.
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Colleges and Universities
48
Colleges and Universities
The higher education institutions listed below currently sponsor National Merit Scholarships.
The number in parentheses reflects the minimum number of Merit Scholarship awards NMSC
expects the college to offer annually. However, neither the institution nor NMSC is obligated to
offer these scholarships in 2025, 2026, or beyond.
A–B
Abilene Christian University (3)
American University (5)
Arizona State University (85)
Auburn University (35)
Belmont University (3)
Boston University (15)
Bowdoin College (3)
Bradley University (3)
Brandeis University (10)
Brigham Young University (10)
Bucknell University (3)
C–E
Calvin University (5)
Carleton College (40)
Case Western Reserve University (25)
Centre College (3)
Claremont McKenna College (8)
Clemson University (25)
Colby College (Maine) (3)
College of Charleston (3)
College of Wooster (3)
Colorado College (6)
Colorado State University (3)
Creighton University (3)
Davidson College (10)
DePauw University (3)
Drake University (3)
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University,
and identied campuses (3)
Emory University (20)
F–H
Florida Atlantic University (3)
Florida International University (3)
Florida State University (15)
Fordham University (3)
Furman University (5)
Gordon College (Massachusetts) (3)
Grinnell College (15)
Gustavus Adolphus College (3)
Harding University (5)
Harvey Mudd College (30)
Hendrix College (3)
Hillsdale College (10)
Hope College (3)
I–N
Illinois Wesleyan University (3)
Indiana University Bloomington (6)
Iowa State University (25)
Kalamazoo College (3)
Kansas State University (5)
Kenyon College (5)
Lawrence University (Wisconsin) (3)
Lehigh University (3)
Liberty University (3)
Louisiana State University (25)
Louisiana Tech University (3)
Loyola University Chicago (3)
Luther College (3)
Macalester College (10)
Marquette University (3)
Michigan State University (35)
Michigan Technological University (3)
Mississippi State University (10)
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Colleges and Universities
Missouri University of Science and
Technology (9)
Montana State University-Bozeman (3)
New College of Florida (3)
North Dakota State University (5)
Northeastern University (Massachusetts) (3)
O–R
Oberlin College (15)
Occidental College (3)
Ohio University-Athens (3)
Oklahoma Christian University (3)
Oklahoma State University (10)
Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering (3)
Ouachita Baptist University (3)
Pennsylvania State University,
and identied campuses (5)
Pomona College (4)
Purdue University, and identied campuses (30)
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (15)
Rhodes College (11)
Rochester Institute of Technology (10)
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (15)
Rutgers, e State University of New Jersey,
and identied campuses (15)
S–T
Saint Louis University (3)
St. Olaf College (10)
Samford University (3)
Southern Methodist University (15)
Stony Brook University (15)
Tennessee Technological University (3)
Texas A&M University,
and identied campuses (110)
Texas Christian University (3)
Texas Tech University (3)
Trinity University (Texas) (3)
Truman State University (3)
Tus University (10)
Tulane University (20)
U
University of Alabama at Birmingham (5)
University of Alabama in Huntsville (5)
University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa (115)
University of Arizona (55)
University of Arkansas, Fayetteville (30)
University of Central Florida (10)
University of Dallas (3)
University of Dayton (3)
University of Evansville (3)
University of Florida (20)
University of Georgia Foundation (20)
University of Houston-Main Campus (10)
University of Idaho (15)
University of Iowa (20)
University of Kansas (20)
University of Kentucky (60)
University of Louisville (12)
University of Maine (3)
University of Maryland,
and identied campuses (15)
University of Miami (15)
University of Minnesota,
and identied campuses (36)
University of Mississippi (10)
University of Missouri-Columbia (20)
University of Montana-Missoula (3)
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (20)
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (3)
University of Nevada, Reno (3)
University of New Mexico (3)
University of North Dakota (3)
University of North Texas (3)
University of Oklahoma,
and identied campuses (75)
University of Oregon (6)
University of Pittsburgh (3)
University of Puget Sound (3)
University of St. omas (Minnesota) (3)
University of South Carolina-Columbia (8)
University of South Florida (12)
University of Southern California (35)
University of Southern Mississippi (3)
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2024 PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
Scholarship Sponsors Colleges and Universities
University of Tennessee, Knoxville (15)
University of Texas at Dallas (100)
University of Tulsa (15)
University of Utah (20)
University of Wisconsin-Madison (10)
University of Wyoming (3)
V–Z
Valparaiso University (3)
Vanderbilt University (18)
Villanova University (5)
Virginia Commonwealth University (3)
Washington and Lee University (15)
Washington State University (3)
Wayne State University (Michigan) (3)
West Virginia University
Foundation, Inc. (12)
Wheaton College (Illinois) (20)
Whitman College (3)
Wichita State University (3)
Woord College (3)
