MeritCue

For parents

Reading and Writing counts twice.

The Selection Index is twice the Reading and Writing section score, plus the Math section score, divided by 10. A gain of 10 points in Reading and Writing raises the index by 2. The same gain in Math raises it by 1.

Read why strong math students stall on National Merit.

Take the free check to see the strongest and weakest Reading and Writing skills. The check is twelve questions and takes about 15 minutes.

That index is how recognition starts.

National Merit Scholarship Corporation uses the Selection Index as the first screen. The program recognizes Commended Students, Semifinalists, and Finalists. Only Finalists are considered for National Merit Scholarships.

Every Finalist is considered for a one-time National Merit Scholarship of $2,500, and not every Finalist receives one. Corporate-sponsored and college-sponsored awards vary by sponsor.

Score levels vary by year and state.

Selection Index

Not yetEnter both section scores.

This is the National Merit number. It is not a score guarantee and not a state cutoff predictor.

The junior-year test is the one that counts, and a student gets one shot.

The PSAT/NMSQT is given in October. Schools choose the day.

The school chooses the day in October. A student gets one valid score for that window.

You see the week without nagging.

A short note arrives by email with the minutes, the days, and the pattern behind most misses.

Example. This is not a real student.

Subject

Your weekly MeritCue note

Hello. Your student practiced 48 minutes across 5 of 7 days. Two words still need work: mitigate and preclude. Most misses came from choosing a word that is close in meaning but too strong. Your student's practice: https://www.meritcue.com/parent/child/example

Current streak: 2 days in a row.

  • Saturday, October 1012 minutes, 6 questions
  • Friday, October 910 minutes, 6 questions
  • Thursday, October 8Not yet
  • Words in Context80 percent
  • Evidence50 percent

Most misses came from choosing a word that is close in meaning but too strong.

A full year usually costs less than a season of private tutoring.

Season pack$69

$12.99 a month

The season pack is $69 for one year from the purchase date, or $12.99 a month. Six short questions a day, about 10 minutes, then the student stops.

Every day adapts after your student has some practice history. MeritCue spots the skills that need work and gives them extra practice on those skills, while still covering the whole test.

Start for a parent

Not a fit? Full refund within 7 days.

You can also try today's sample before you pay.

See the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for official rules. MeritCue does not promise a score or an award.