How do Low PSAT/NMSQT scores, but high SATs affect admission?

Applying to College
1

<p>My PSAT score was about an 1860 overall, which is pretty sad. I was young, and I didn’t really have any idea what I was doing. I took the SAT for the first time this June after looking over some practice tests and I got a 2300. Will my low PSAT scores hurt my admission to an LAC other than just missing out on National Merit? </p>

<p>One other question; are Presidential scholars chosen from NMSQT or SAT scores?</p>

<p>I really shouldn’t have let my teachers convince me to take that test. Terrible idea.</p>

2

<p>PSAT scores are never sent to colleges unless one’s h.s. includes them on transcripts, something I haven’t heard of occurring, but theoretically could occur.</p>

<p>The only PSAT that counts for anything is one’s junior year score since it is what can qualify you for National Merit, National Achievement (for black students) or National Hispanic scholarships. Getting any of those awards could help with admission/merit aid at many colleges, but not at places like HPYS, which get such an overabundance of applicants with those honors that the admissions officers aren’t impressed by such achievements.</p>

<p>Presidential scholars are chosen from those who take the SAT/ACT.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, it’s wise for students to take the PSAT early – freshman and soph year so that when junior year comes, the students are familiar with the test and can reach their optimum the year that it counts.</p>

3

<p>My high school includes the PSAT, NRT, and FCAT (Florida) scores from 8th grade and beyond on the transcript. Its ridiculous, but i’m going to request that they are removed.</p>

4

<p>Colleges do not consider PSAT scores when evaluating applications.</p>

5

<p>There’s a good chance that the OP got such high SAT scores because of the practice of taking the PSAT.</p>

6

<p>Whew, firefly, i’m relieved. Thanks for the info.</p>

<p>I wouldn’t say that at all Northstarmom, I can firmly say that I attribute my score in CR (I got an 800) to my love of reading and to my incredible AP Lang teacher. My Math score (760) was mostly the result of the timing I learned from the practice tests I took. The PSAT was worthless, and I barely remember it. I can’t believe that the collegeboard uses it as their NMSQT.</p>