Homeschooled & Away Students Taking the PSAT/NMSQT
If your child is homeschooled or attending a school that doesn’t offer the PSAT/NMSQT, you might be wondering how they can still participate in this important test. The good news is that homeschooled and “away” students can absolutely take the PSAT/NMSQT. With the right steps and a little planning, your student can gain access to the same college readiness opportunities as their peers in traditional schools.
This article breaks down the key information you need to ensure your child is registered, prepared, and eligible to take the PSAT/NMSQT.
What Is the PSAT/NMSQT?
The PSAT/NMSQT stands for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. It is typically offered in October each year and is an important tool for students preparing for the SAT. Additionally, it serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program for 11th-grade students.
Can Homeschooled Students Take the PSAT/NMSQT?
Yes. Students who are homeschooled are eligible to take the PSAT/NMSQT. However, they are responsible for finding a school or district offering the test and arranging to test there. They must register through a participating school because homeschoolers cannot register directly through the College Board.
Can Away Students Take the PSAT/NMSQT?
Away students—those who attend a different school than the one offering the test—may also take the PSAT/NMSQT at another school, provided that school is open to external test-takers. The process for registration and preparation is similar to that for homeschooled students.
How to Register as a Homeschooled or Away Student
The registration process is simple, but time-sensitive. Here’s what parents and students should do:
1. Find a Participating School
At least four weeks before the test date, contact local high schools or school districts to ask if they allow outside students to take the PSAT/NMSQT at their test center.
2. Provide Required Information
When contacting the school, be ready to share the student’s name, date of birth, current grade level, gender, and homeschool status. The school may also require the student’s homeschool code, which varies by state.
3. Discuss Accommodations (If Applicable)
If your child has College Board-approved testing accommodations, such as extended time or the use of assistive technology, provide the school with their SSD (Services for Students with Disabilities) number. This ensures that their accommodations are properly administered on test day.
4. Confirm Test Date and Payment
Make sure to confirm the exact date and time of the test. You may also need to pay a testing fee, which is set by the hosting school and not the College Board.
What to Expect on Test Day
1. Bring Valid Identification
Students must bring acceptable photo ID, such as a school-issued ID or government-issued ID.
2. Receive Sign-In Credentials
Students will be given credentials to log into the Bluebook™ app, the platform used for digital testing.
3. Device Requirements
Ask the host school if your child needs to bring a personal laptop or if the school will provide one. If bringing their own, ensure it meets the technical requirements for the Bluebook™ app.
4. Be On Time
Arrive early on test day to complete check-in smoothly. Schools may not allow students who arrive late to test.
Preparing for the PSAT/NMSQT
Students can prepare for the test by downloading the Bluebook™ app and taking practice tests. This is especially important for homeschooled or away students, as they typically don’t participate in school-led readiness activities.
Studying for the PSAT/NMSQT should include:
- Reviewing math and reading fundamentals
- Practicing with official practice tests
- Getting familiar with the digital testing tools
How to Get PSAT/NMSQT Scores
Scores are usually available online about 4 to 6 weeks after the test date. Students age 13 or older can create a College Board account to access their scores. Students under 13 may need to request score reports through their school or by contacting customer support.
Additionally, students who provided a mobile number during registration may receive score access instructions via text and can view scores using the official College Board app.
National Merit Scholarship Consideration
For 11th-grade students, the PSAT/NMSQT is more than just a practice test—it’s the gateway to the National Merit Scholarship Program. Homeschooled and away students are fully eligible, as long as they test in their junior year and meet the qualifying score for their state.
Students do not need to take any additional steps beyond taking the PSAT/NMSQT in their junior year with the appropriate school code.
Final Tips for Parents
- Begin looking for a host school in early September or even August.
- Ensure all documents and accommodations are arranged well in advance.
- Follow up with the school to confirm your child is officially registered.
- Practice using the Bluebook™ app to avoid technical issues on test day.
- Keep a copy of your child’s testing information for score access and scholarship consideration.
By following these steps, homeschooled and away students can successfully participate in the PSAT/NMSQT and take full advantage of the opportunities it offers. If you’re planning for your child to qualify for scholarships or simply want them to gain testing experience, the PSAT/NMSQT is an important milestone not to miss.