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The PSAT and Merit Scholarships: what you need to know

What is a “good” PSAT score? What is the point of the PSAT? What’s a National Merit Scholarship? If you’ve asked these questions recently, you’re not alone.

The College Board PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test), taken in October of sophomore or junior year, is more than just a warm-up for the SAT or the ACT. PSAT scores are not used in the college admissions process, they are used to award certain merit scholarships and identify National Merit Scholars (US citizens and residents only).

The PSAT, which is now digital, is typically a student’s first exposure to standardized testing and can be a good indicator of your potential SAT score and a touchstone to guide your preparation for taking the SAT or ACT during your junior and/or senior year. According to the College Board, the average PSAT score is about 920 (out of a total between 320–1520). Therefore, a score between 1210 and 1520 can land you in the top 10% of test takers.

This year the PSAT/NMSQT will be offered to Year 10 students in October. More information to follow.

Message | To the Leaving Class of 2025

All Year 11 students were asked to complete an update form for their counsellor and adviser: Updates and insights about me. This form was due on May 27, 2024. Thank you to the students who have already completed it. If you have not yet completed the form, we ask that you do so as soon as possible. This can be found in your Drive under University Applications Workspace, there is no need to share it as counsellors and advisors will be able to access this folder. Click here for the video.

Reminder | Applying to U.S. colleges and universities in the fall

Below, we list some of the priority items you should be working on this month:

• In Naviance, create a “College List”; prepare to finalize that list. Once you do, take note of all deadlines for applications and scholarships, number of required recommendations, testing policies, etc.

• Research financial aid at American institutions and your parents’ role in financing your tuition.

• Plan to visit a couple of schools based on your college research. If getting to the campuses isn’t possible, learn as much as you can online via virtual information sessions and virtual tours. Leave a strong “digital” trail behind —use your @ucc email.

• Read our How to write a successful common app personal statement (also in your Drive under “University Workspace”).

• Read our How to write a successful “Why us?” essay (also in your Drive under “University Workspace”).

• Approach two teachers (in person) you will be asked to write your letter of recommendation. Once they agree, complete this form for each of them: teacher letter of recommendation request form. The form was due on June 1, 2024. Thank you to the students who have already submitted it. If you have not yet completed the form, we ask that you do so as soon as possible.

University College London (UCL) new programmes for 2025 entry 

Business and Health BSc and MSci

What is it?

• Our BSc/MSci Business and Health merges the two essential fields of business and healthcare. Students undertaking this programme gain core skills in business and health, statistical techniques, economics, and perspectives on health.

• Students can specialize in either healthcare management or health science while continuing to build knowledge in business and management core areas. They can take the programme either as a Bachelor of Science or an Integrated Master’s degree.

• Students taking the integrated Master’s route (MSci) have the opportunity to spend an academic year either on an international study abroad programme gaining a global context and comparison of multiple health systems, or undertaking a work placement to further employability skills. 

Who is it for?

• Individuals looking to gain an innovative business and management degree with a deep dive into the health and healthcare space from a world top 10 university.

• Individuals keen to gain global perspectives through studying abroad, work experience and research skill development.

• Those looking for options to further specialize in healthcare management or health science.

•  Students who wish to go into a diverse range of health-related professions.

• Individuals keen to become senior management leaders of healthcare.

Where can students learn more?

• Online prospectus

• Global Business School for Health website

• Business and Health BSc/MSci Open Days

• Contact: undergraduategbsh@ucl.ac.uk

Art and Technology BA

What is it?  

• Our brand new Art and Technology BA is a course for the next generation of artists to create art connected to emerging and disruptive technologies. It is a practice-based, interdisciplinary programme focused on the interconnections between art, humanities and science. 

• Taught at our newest campus, UCL East, students on the programme will benefit from purpose-built facilities such as the new Slade Studio, whilst working with experts from the longstanding and renowned UCL Slade School of Fine Art.  

Who is it for?  

• Students looking to develop their practical and working knowledge of online and digital experiences and technologies through art practice. 

• Those who want to develop skills in areas including creative coding, AI, robotic technologies and gaming design. 

• There are no specific A Level subjects required for entry but at least two should be taken from UCL’s list of preferred subjects. A portfolio of work (up to twenty items) will be required. Please see the guidance on the programme page for more information.  

University of Edinburgh | College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine

Lesley Stokes and Geraldine Gianoppoulos from the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine at the University of Edinburgh, provide an overview of the interview process for their courses. 

Watch the recording here.