National Merit Scholarship Program
To be eligible for competition a student must:
- Be enrolled full time as a high school student.
- Be a citizen of the United States or be a permanent resident or be in the process of becoming a U.S. citizen.
- Take the PSAT SAT test at the proper time and no later than the third year in grades 9 - 12.
Different types of scholarships are offered to those students who meet certain participation requirements.
Students qualify for this scholarship by receiving a high PSAT Selection Index score. The 15,000 top Commended Scholars nationally go on to compete as National Merit Semifinalists. They may become Finalists by confirming their PSAT score with a comparable SAT I score. In addition, they must have a record of academic excellence throughout high school, endorsement and recommendation by the high school principal, activities and contributions to the school and community. Approximately 90% of each year's Semifinalists qualify as Finalists.