In October, the highest-ranking students in the 10th and 11th grades will have the opportunity to take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The PSAT/NMSQT is a standardized test administered by the College Board.  The PSAT/NMSQT measures the reading, math, and writing skills needed for college and career planning and is designed to mirror the SAT. Any student or the parent of a student in the 10th or 11th grade may request to take the exam. The request must be made prior to the September deadline for ordering the exam. Parents will be responsible for covering the expense.
​Students can prepare for this exam by reviewing the information in the PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide that will be sent home with students prior to the test administration. The College Board has partnered with Khan Academy to provide free SAT/PSAT online practice. The customized test preparation will offer skill-based videos and practice SAT/PSAT questions to support students who plan on taking the PSAT/NMSQT. After the test, a score report will be sent to each student, highlighting strengths and weaknesses related to college readiness. Once a student receives the score reports, they can connect their College Board and Khan Academy accounts to access free personalized learning plans based on test performance. 11th graders who score well may qualify for National Merit Recognition and Scholarships.

Home-School Students

A home‑schooled 11th-grade student may request to take the PSAT/NMSQT at his/her zoned high school. Parents should contact the Testing Coordinator at the zoned high school campus for registration requirements and applicable costs.

The deadline to register with the Testing Coordinator at the zoned high school is September 30th. Proof of residency is required at the time of registration. 

Galena Park ISD does not administer PSAT/NMSQT exams to students enrolled in an accredited virtual, charter or private school.

For additional questions, please contact the Director for Advanced Academics.