National Merit Selection Index calculator
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Enter your PSAT/NMSQT Reading and Writing and Math section scores (each 160 to 760) to calculate your National Merit Selection Index. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation uses this index, not your total score, to decide Commended and Semifinalist recognition:
It ranges from 48 to 228.
Example
With 700 in Reading and Writing and 680 in Math: . The total PSAT score is 1380, but the Selection Index is 208.
Why Reading and Writing counts double
Reading and Writing is multiplied by 2, so 10 extra points in Reading and Writing add 2 to your index, while 10 extra points in Math add 1. If you're close to a cutoff, Reading and Writing improvements are worth twice as much. Grammar and punctuation questions are often the quickest gains: see SAT grammar rules.
Cutoffs
About 50,000 high scorers are recognised each year: roughly 34,000 as Commended Students and 16,000 as Semifinalists. The Commended cutoff is national and changes every year; Semifinalist cutoffs are set state by state. Check NMSC's website for the current figures rather than estimates, and read our guide to the National Merit Scholarship.
Preparing
The PSAT/NMSQT has the same structure as the Digital SAT, so SAT practice works for both. Start with a free adaptive practice test and follow our PSAT preparation guide.
Who can enter
Entry is through the PSAT/NMSQT taken in the year NMSC specifies, usually grade 11 (the third year of a four-year high school programme). There are also requirements about enrolment and plans for college, and citizenship or residency. NMSC's official student guide for your year sets out the full rules.
After Semifinalist
Semifinalists can go on to become Finalists by submitting an application that includes their academic record, an endorsement from the school and a confirming SAT or ACT score, among other requirements. Finalists are then considered for National Merit Scholarships. Commended Students are recognised but don't continue in the competition for these scholarships.
Frequently asked questions
Can I raise my index quickly?
Reading and Writing counts double, so improving it helps most. Grammar and transitions questions are rule-based and often the quickest to improve.
What are PSAT/NMSQT section scores out of?
Each section is scored from 160 to 760, so the total runs from 320 to 1520.
Is the Selection Index the same as my PSAT score?
No. Your total PSAT/NMSQT score runs from 320 to 1520; the Selection Index runs from 48 to 228 and weights Reading and Writing twice.
How is the National Merit Selection Index calculated?
Double your Reading and Writing section score, add your Math section score, and divide by 10.
What Selection Index do I need?
Cutoffs change each year and Semifinalist cutoffs vary by state. Check the National Merit Scholarship Corporation's website.
Does my PSAT 10 score count?
No. Entry to the National Merit Scholarship Program is through the PSAT/NMSQT taken in the specified year, usually grade 11.
Sources
- Guide to the National Merit Scholarship Program. National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
- Program Recognition. National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
Keep reading
The National Merit Scholarship and the PSAT/NMSQT: how qualifying works
Who can enter, how the Selection Index is calculated, what Commended and Semifinalist mean, and how to prepare.
How to prepare for the PSAT: a 6-week plan
What's on the PSAT, a 6-week study plan, the quickest wins and free practice tests.
PSAT vs SAT: the differences, and how to practise for both
Same sections, timing and adaptive modules; a 320–1520 scale; and why SAT practice tests are good PSAT practice.
Free Digital SAT practice tests
A full-length, timed, adaptive practice test and section tests, free with no sign-up.