On Wed., Oct. 16 students in grades 10 and 11, along with countless other students across the country took the PSAT, or the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test. Freshmen also took a similar test although it was a “practice PSAT,” not generated by the College Board. The PSAT, similar in format to the SAT, tests students on critical reading, math problem-solving and writing skills. Unlike the official SAT, the PSAT has fewer sections and does not include an essay portion.

According to the College Board website, the PSAT is “a standardized test that provides firsthand practice for the SAT.” It also gives students a chance to enter National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s scholarship programs and gain access to college planning tools.

While the PSAT does not count for college admission like the SAT, it is still an important test. Juniors who receive high scores on the exam could qualify for a National Merit Semi-Finalist designation. Students who have among the highest scores in Maryland on the PSAT are selected for this honor in the fall of their senior year. Of the 1.5 million or so students nationwide who take the test, 16,000 will advance to semi-finalist standing.

Eight WJ seniors were selected as semi-finalists this year.

Once chosen as National Merit Semi-finalists, students can apply to be a National Merit Finalist and possibly earn some scholarships.

In addition, there are awards for Hispanic and African American students, who achieve specially designated high scores. African American students can qualify to be National Achievement Semi-Finalists and then finalists, while Hispanic students with high scores can be honored through the National Hispanic Recognition Program.