SOPHOMORE YEAR

October
National Merit Scholarship eligibility is determined by PSAT scores, and typically, students take it during their junior years. If your school signs up sophomores for the PSAT, this is the month for it. Think of it as a practice run, since next year is when it will count. So, while you should approach it seriously, don't freak out.

Take the PSAT, but first, repeat after us: It's just for practice.
Start investigating the college admissions process so you're prepared come junior and senior years.

Learn about the PSAT
What Colleges Want