Every year, thousands of high school students across the United States compete for the National Merit Scholarship, a prestigious award that can help them unlock their future academic and professional goals. Whether you are a high school student or a parent or educator of a student, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about the National Merit Scholarship, including its history, eligibility criteria, the application process, benefits, and tips for success.

What is the National Merit Scholarship?

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) established the National Merit Scholarship in 1955 as an academic competition. The competition aims to identify and recognize academically talented high school students in the United States. Students who participate in the competition have the chance to win scholarship money as well as gain recognition from colleges and universities across the country.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the National Merit Scholarship, students must meet several criteria. First, they must be enrolled in a high school program that leads to a diploma or equivalent. Second, they must be a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States or a U.S. territory. Third, they must take the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) during their junior year of high school.

Application Process

The application process for the National Merit Scholarship Competition is relatively simple. As mentioned above, students who take the PSAT or NMSQT and meet the eligibility criteria will automatically be considered for the competition. However, there are a few additional steps that students must take if they want to advance to the next round of the competition.

In the fall of their senior year of high school, students who are deemed “semifinalists” based on their PSAT or NMSQT scores will be notified by the NMSC. To advance to the finalist round of the competition, semifinalists must submit a detailed application that includes academic records, extracurricular activities, leadership positions, and an essay. Semifinalists who do not submit a complete application will not be considered for the final round.

Benefits of the National Merit Scholarship

Winning the National Merit Scholarship can provide a number of benefits for students. First and foremost, the scholarship money can help offset the costs of college tuition, fees, and living expenses. The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the sponsor, but most scholarships are renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study.

Tips for Success

If you are interested in applying for the National Merit Scholarship, there are several things you can do to increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Take the PSAT/NMSQT seriously. The PSAT/NMSQT is the initial screening for the National Merit Scholarship competition, so it’s important to take it seriously. Make sure you study for the test and do your best on test day.
2. Get involved in extracurricular activities: The National Merit Scholarship application includes a section on extracurricular activities. Make sure you are involved in activities for which you are passionate.

3. Focus on academics: The National Merit Scholarship is an academic competition, so it’s important to maintain a strong GPA and take challenging courses in high school. Consider taking AP or honors classes in subjects that interest you.
4. Start preparing early: The PSAT/NMSQT is taken during the junior year of high school, but you can start preparing for it as early as freshman year. Consider taking practice tests, studying with classmates, or hiring a tutor.
5. Pay attention to deadlines: The National Merit Scholarship competition has strict deadlines for application submissions. Make sure you keep track of the deadlines and submit your application on time.

Conclusion

The National Merit Scholarship is a prestigious award that can help high school students unlock their future academic and professional goals. Whether you are a student, parent, or educator, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and tips for success. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of success and potentially win the National Merit Scholarship. Remember, the scholarship not only provides financial benefits but also