Missed the PSAT? – What to Do If You Missed PSAT Test Day

For a variety of reasons, students sometimes miss PSAT test day. If this happens to your child, there are a few options to consider.

What to do if your child missed PSAT test day

• Remember that the PSAT serves primarily as practice for the SAT. If your child missed PSAT test day, he or she can still practice for the SAT by taking PSAT and SAT practice tests and by enrolling in an SAT prep program.

• The PSAT provides students with an opportunity to register for the Student Search Service, which enables colleges to send registered students information about their schools. However, your child will have a second chance to register for the Student Search Service when he or she takes the SAT for the first time.

• If your child missed the PSAT due to illness, emergency, or other extenuating circumstances, but would still like to be eligible for the National Merit Scholarship Program, contact the National Merit Scholarship Corporation via mail to inquire about alternate testing. Do this as soon as possible after the missed PSAT test. In order for the request to be considered, it must be postmarked by March 1. For more information, visit the National Merit Scholarship Corporation website.

Related Topics

• For general information about the PSAT Test, visit our PSAT Test page.
• Wondering how PSAT scores are calculated? Visit our PSAT Scores page to find out.
• Visit our National Merit Scholarship Qualifications page to find out about the National Merit Scholarship Program.