PSAT/NMSQT: Important Information for Parents of Sophomores and Juniors

On Wednesday, Oct. 12, Katy ISD sophomores and juniors will have the opportunity to take the PSAT/NMSQT(National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) at their home campus. Taking the PSAT can encourage a student to start thinking seriously about college and career goals, and the education needed to reach those goals. Registration opens Sept. 6, and information will be distributed to students at their home campus.

Sophomores must register and pay the PSAT/NMSQT exam fee of $14 by Sept. 16 to participate. Homeschooled students may register through their zoned high school, and also pay the exam fee by Sept. 16. Every Katy ISD junior is automatically registered to participate, with their exam fees paid by the district.

Taking the PSAT provides the following advantages to students:

It measures the reading, math, and writing skills needed for college (and for success in most jobs and careers in today’s world). After the test, a score report will tell students how their skills measure up. Students can use it to find their “skill gaps” and make plans to fill these gaps.
The Student Search Service gives PSAT/NMSQT test takers the option to voluntarily place their names and addresses in a pool of college-bound students interested in receiving admission and financial aid information from certified colleges, universities and scholarship agencies.
Students who take the PSAT typically score higher on the SAT than those who do not take the PSAT.
It provides practice for the SAT Reasoning Test.
It allows students to predict their SAT scores in time to work on specific skills that may raise their scores.
Juniors who score well may qualify for National Merit Recognition and Scholarships.
Sophomores who score well are invited to participate in the district National Merit Review Program.
It provides valuable information to parents and students on student potential for advanced academics in high school.

PSAT/NMSQT test takers receive a free personalized PSAT/NMSQT college planning kit online. Using a unique access code on the score report, students have access to an online PSAT/NMSQT Score Report, a customized SAT study plan, personalized lists of college majors and careers, a personalized list of colleges, and access to MyRoad—an interactive majors, college and career exploration program.

Students can prepare for this exam by reviewing the information on the PSAT/NMSQT prep booklet available on each high school campus.

Katy ISD provides all students the academic opportunities needed to prepare them for college and beyond. Participation in the PSAT is an important part of preparing for college.

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