Your PSAT Options in 2020-2021

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, most local schools canceled the PSAT, which is typically offered to all sophomores and juniors during a school day in the fall semester. The good news is that your student can still access the benefits of the PSAT, including the following:

• consideration for the National Merit Scholarship; and

• early preparation for the SAT or ACT.

Our expert tutors weighed in on common questions we receive from parents of students who missed their chance to take the PSAT this fall.  

How can I take the PSAT if my school isn’t offering it?

In response to school closures this fall, the College Board announced an additional PSAT date in January 2021. It’s possible that many public schools will elect to offer this test. If your school chooses not to administer the PSAT, your only option to take PSAT would be to find a testing site and register as a homeschooled student.  

How can I participate in the National Merit Scholarship Competition if I don’t take the PSAT? 

Every year, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) permits students who didn’t take the PSAT to participate in the scholarship competition by Alternate Entry. This year, students may participate in the competition by taking the SAT before June 2021 and sending their scores directly to NMSC. The deadline to request Alternate Entry is April 1, 2021.

If you’re planning to qualify for Alternate Entry, you’ll want to make an PSAT study plan. Start by taking an SAT or PSAT Practice Test and set up a free, 30-minute consultation with our team to design a custom tutoring plan. Our expert tutors are available for one-on-one support or small group classes to help you reach your goals.