National Merit Scholarship Program

Eligibility

• Take the PSAT/NMSQT during the designated qualifying year, normally during the junior year of high school.
• Meet all National Merit Scholarship Program entry requirements.
• Earn a qualifying Selection Index score for the student's state or selection unit.
• Advance to Semifinalist standing.
• Complete all requirements necessary to advance from Semifinalist to Finalist.

Requirements

• Complete the National Merit Scholarship Application after being named a Semifinalist.
• Submit the required essay.
• Provide an official high school transcript or academic record.
• Receive an endorsement and recommendation from a high school official.
• Maintain an outstanding academic record.
• Provide any confirming test score or additional information required for the applicable competition year.

How to Apply

1. 1Enter the competition by taking the PSAT/NMSQT during the qualifying year.
2. 2High scorers are identified through the National Merit selection process.
3. 3Qualifying students are named Semifinalists during their senior year.
4. 4Semifinalists complete the National Merit Scholarship Application.
5. 5Students who satisfy all requirements advance to Finalist standing.
6. 6Finalists are considered for National Merit $2,500 Scholarships, corporate-sponsored awards, and college-sponsored scholarships.