Students who are looking for ways to avoid the stress and late night study binges as they prepare for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) are in luck. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) provides a solution for the panic: the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).

The PSAT provides first-hand practice for students who are planning on taking the SAT test.

“I was really worried about my score because I didn’t know how to study for a test that covers so many topics,” Sarah McComb, ’04, said. “I wished I had known I could take a practice test.”

The PSAT measures the student’s scores in verbal reasoning, critical reading, math problem solving, and writing skills. It gives test takers an idea which subjects may need more attention or additional study. The test is offered every fall on campus and costs $10.

“It would help to know which subjects I should be studying,” Josh Wright, ’05, said. “That way I’d know I was prepared!”

High scores on the SATs can make it possible for students to obtain financial aid.

“We encourage sophomores and juniors to take the PSAT,” Jon Endicott, vice principal, said. “If they score high enough, they can qualify for college scholarships.”

The annual PSAT will be offered on campus, Oct. 21 from 8?11 AM. Pre-registration is required to take the test. Students can sign up in the high school office until Oct. 20. For more information on the PSAT, go to www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/psat/about.html. Students can also contact Endicott at 299-1695, ext. 126.

Students in other high schools should contact their administration or student announcements to find out when and where their PSAT is offered.

Students can also register online for the SAT at www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/sat/reg.html. The web site also offers services like study aids, questions/answers and a practice test.