On Wednesday, October 19, the Collegeboard PSAT will be optional (students can choose to take or not take Collegeboard PSAT) for all high school students, grades 9-11. This test measures critical reading, math, problem-solving, and writing skills. It provides students practice for the SATs and gives feedback regarding important academic skills. As you know, SATs are an important college entrance assessment and part of standards that colleges consider when accepting students. Given the importance of this assessment, we at SLAS are committed to providing students with multiple opportunities to prepare for the SATs. In addition, we know from research that students who take the Collegeboard PSAT typically achieve higher scores on the SAT.

By taking the Collegeboard PSAT/NMSQT^® your child will have access to resources that will help prepare him/her for the future. Two resources that will be a benefit to all students are

1. A list of personalized careers and potential college majors based on the preferences indicated on the Collegeboard PSAT/NMSQT^®; and access to MyRoad™, the College Board’s interactive college and career planning website.

Additionally, students in grade 11 who perform well on the Collegeboard PSAT/NMSQT may earn “commended status”. The College Board shares the names of students who earn this distinction with colleges and universities. Students who perform exceptionally well on the PSAT/NMSQT qualify for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship.  These scholarships are based solely on a student’s performance on the Collegeboard PSAT in their junior year.

Please note that 10^th graders are not eligible for the National Merit Qualifying Scholarships. Only 11^th grade students may be identified as National Merit Scholars based on the Collegeboard PSAT/NMSQT^®.

Your student’s Score Report for the Collegeboard PSAT/NMSQT^® will arrive here at school in January for distribution.

If you would like additional information about the Collegeboard PSAT/NMSQT^® and how it will be administered at our school, please contact . If you would like additional information from The College Board, you may sign up for a newsletter at http://www.collegeboard.com/parents/.