PSAT (cont...) (BACK
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High school students qualify
for the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking
the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualification
Test. At Rambam, students take the PSAT test twice
- once as a sophomore
and once again as a junior. Only the score on the
test taken during the junior year is taken into account
for National Merit Scholarship qualification. The
next PSAT test date for sophomores and juniors is
on October 13, 2004 at Rambam.
PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index scores
(the sum of critical reading, math and writing skills
scores) screen over
a million entrants and are used to
designate those who receive National Merit Program
recognition. Each year, Merit Scholarship winners
are chosen from the group of finalists on the
basis of their abilities, skills and accomplishments.
It includes the finalist's academic record, scores
on the PSAT/NMSQT and SAT, the student's
essay, demonstrated leadership and school recommendation.
Approximately
10,000 awards will have a combined value of more
than $46 million.
Since only a select few earn these awards, it's important
to understand the primary
purpose of the PSAT. This
test is to acquaint
students with the SAT, a critical element in the
college admissions
process. Experience has shown that familiarity with
an exam provides a level
of comfort conducive to success. As well, it is a good
gauge of areas of
weakness on which to focus for the later exam.
Good luck to all!
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