Two Tips for Teens That Miss the PSAT/NMSQT in 10th Grade

The purpose of taking the PSAT/NMSQT in 10th is only to get a bit of practice
about how to take a bubble test in a public school setting. Even in 11th
grade, the purpose is still “just for practice” unless your child scores in
the 95th percentile or above. So when you miss the PSAT/NMSQT, don’t sweat the
small stuff.

Here are two simple tips if you have missed the PSAT/NMSQT in 10th grade.

1. Take the sample SAT and ACT at home with cookies.

The SAT score is similar to the score on the PSAT/NMSQT, so this can help you
guide the process. That will tell you if the PSAT/NMSQT is even important at all.
If your child scores VERY high on the SAT test, then it WILL be important
to take the PSAT/NMSQT in 11th grade to get the chance at the National Merit
Scholarship. On the other hand, if your child does NOT do well on the
SAT test, then the PSAT/NMSQT in 11th grade is only being used for a second
practice situation. And if that sample ACT at home is much higher than the
sample SAT at home, you know to study for that test instead.

This article will give you more information, a sample of each test, and a
chart to help you compare the scores:

Eat Cookies to Get a Better SAT Score

2. Find a group test experience.

You can find another “fill in the bubble with groups of teens” options that
would be good for practice. Call your public library, and see if they offer
SAT or ACT tests? Often the Kaplan and Peterson’s companies will go to
public libraries and other locations for publicity purposes. They will
provide a timed test without any explanation, and then hope that when you
return to receive your score, they will talk you into buying their test
prep programs. You can use that environment as a practice for the test
environment for free, if you can find this option.

Don’t buy their test prep program! It’s WAY cheaper at home! This article
explains how:

How to Ace the SAT or ACT: Get the best possible SAT or ACT score with
the least possible stress

Remember, don’t sweat the small stuff. Move forward in faith believing in
ultimate success. Lots of kids get into college and get great scholarships,
even when their parent forgot the PSAT/NMSQT. It’s not the end of the world.

Taking the PSAT/NMSQT, SAT, and ACT during 10th and 11th grade is a small step
along the path of finding a college. For more assistance getting into
college, finding scholarships, and avoiding debt, read about the

College Launch Solution

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