New Canaan High School will administer the PSAT/NMSQT to all 10th and 11th-grade students on Friday, October 9, 2026. This is a one-time, school-administered assessment, so students do not need to register or take any additional action to participate.
The PSAT/NMSQT is a digital assessment covering Reading, Writing, and Math. The test is shorter than the SAT, provides more time per question, and includes a built-in calculator. Students who earn a score of 480 in Reading and 500 in Math meet the state’s high school graduation standards in these core academic areas. The assessment can also qualify 11th-grade students for the National Merit Scholarship Program and other scholarships.
Important Testing Information
Students may bring their own devices. The school will have a limited number of devices available for students who need one.
The Bluebook app must be downloaded and used for the PSAT. NCHS will share additional information about downloading the app as the testing date approaches.
Bluebook will not work on personally owned Chromebooks. Students using a Chromebook will need to use a school-provided device.
Students already registered with the College Board for testing or other services will have the PSAT appear in their accounts.
Additional information is available through the College Board's Student Guide and Parent Guide.
Testing Day Schedule
NCHS will administer the PSAT/NMSQT on Friday, October 9th
10th & 11th Grade Students: Please report by 8:00 a.m. for PSAT Testing.
9th Grade Students: Community-Building Activity beginning at 8:00 a.m.
12th Grade Students: Individual College Activities, including work on applications, school visits, or use of resources such as the Writing Center or Career Center.
Please note that school counselors will not be available on the morning of October 9, as they will be working with 9th-grade students.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to help students prepare by making sure they are well-rested, eat a healthy breakfast, and have a fully charged laptop on testing day. While the PSAT is not a required school assessment, NCHS encourages students to view it as an opportunity to learn more about their academic strengths and areas for growth. Counselors will use the results to better understand students' academic needs and help inform future support..
For questions about the PSAT, please contact your student's school counselor.
