<p>So last weekend I got the letter telling me I was one of the top 50k scorers in my state for PSAT/NMSQT competition. I have to report two colleges to which I would like to be referred by the NMSQT company (College Plans Reporting Service). But it says it’s optional, that I don’t have to report if I don’t want. I probably will end up reporting two colleges, but what if I change my mind and don’t want to go to these colleges later on? Do I have to use my scholarship money (that I may get) at one of these two colleges?</p>
<p>It’s a preliminary service and doesn’t lock you into scholarship money right now. If you become a National Merit Semi-Finalist next year in the fall then you can report a first choice college. Some colleges that offer unofficial National Merit scholarships such as the University of Oklahoma or University of Alabama will cover the full cost of attendance for being a National Merit Finalist and designating them as first choice. If you pick a college next year as first choice then you typically have until April 25 to change your mind and fax in a college choice change form to designate another first choice although some colleges that offer significant amounts of money want you to designate them as first choice in March or early April. </p>
<p>Overall, this service is just to demonstrate interest and get more mail from the colleges at this stage; it doesn’t force you to go to these colleges and use their scholarships.</p>