national merit semifinalist essay deadline

National Merit Scholarship

About the scholarship.

National Merit Scholarship Program provides financial assistance for college to high school seniors who achieve outstanding scores on standardized tests.

• Essay Required : No
• Need-Based : No
• Merit-Based : Yes
• This program is open to students who are enrolled full-time in a secondary school, progressing normally toward graduation or completion of high school, and planning to enter college in the fall following high school graduation.
• Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident in the process of becoming a U.S. citizen and be taking the PSAT/NMSQT at the proper time in the high school program and no later than the third year in grades 9 through 12, regardless of grade classification or educational pattern.
• On the basis of the PSAT/NMSQT results, approximately 16,000 of the highest scorers are designated as semifinalists; they are apportioned among states based on the number of graduating seniors in each state, to ensure equitable geographical representation.
• Finalists for National Merit Scholarships must be graduating seniors who are selected from among the semifinalists on the basis of SAT scores, academic performance in all of grades 912, and recommendations by high school principals.
• Country : US

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA

Admit-a-bull // official admissions blog, next steps for national merit semifinalists.

By Daniel Goodson | Last Updated: Jul 15, 2022

If you’ve been named a National Merit Semifinalist, you passed the first hurdle to becoming a finalist. Only about 16,000 students earn the PSAT score required to enter the National Merit Finalist race, so you’re in great company.

But with all the next steps for National Merit Semifinalists , you may feel like earning a great PSAT score was the easy part. That’s why we put together a guide to help you organize all your next steps and (hopefully) make them a little more manageable.

Update: 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program Score Requirements

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused tremendous disruption in education, and the National Merit scholarship program was also impacted. As a result, standardized test scores typically required to become a finalist in the program have been waived for those students starting college in 2021:

“Due to the global pandemic and the resulting lack of available test administrations, SAT and ACT scores will not be required or considered for Finalist standing in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program.”

This testing update is a response to the current health crisis, and it is not anticipated to become a permanent program change. All other steps to become a National Merit Finalist will remain in place:

5. Ensure You Meet All Program Requirements

Before you even get started advancing toward finalist status, you must ensure you meet all the academic, residency, and enrollment requirements. To continue on in the competition to become a National Merit Finalist , you must:

• Be progressing normally toward high school graduation or completion as a traditional or homeschooled student
• Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, or have applied for permanent residency and intend to become a U.S. citizen as soon as possible
• Be enrolled in your last year of high school and plan to enroll full time in college in the fall after your senior year
• Be fully endorsed and recommended for Finalist standing for a National Merit Scholarship (by your high school principal or designated school official)

4. Display a Consistently Excellent Academic Record

This proof of academic accomplishment needs to extend all the way from grade 9 through your senior year. It also includes any college courses you took. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation needs to see exceptional academic performance over a long period, not just the past year.  

According to NMSC , your high school must “provide a complete record of high school courses you have taken, grades earned, and course work you will take in grade 12.” Your school is also obligated to tell the NMSC about “any noticeable decline in your academic performance during the current year.” If you’re currently enrolled in college, you must submit an official transcript of your record.

3. Complete the NMSC Application

Submit all the NMSC application requirements:

• Academic record
• Activity and leadership information
• School curriculum and grading information
• A personal essay
• Recommendation (from your high school principal or designated school official)
• Your first-choice college (see more below)

To submit these items, create an account with the NMSC .

2. Report Your First-Choice College

You don’t need to indicate a college choice to qualify as a National Merit Scholar Finalist. However, the National Merit Scholarship can only be used at colleges in the U.S. that hold accredited status with a regional accrediting commission on higher education. NMSC needs to know that you will attend a qualifying college, so they will request you name a first-choice college.

If you’re not sure where you’d like to attend, you can mark “undecided.” However, to qualify for a college-sponsored Merit Scholarship award, you must have named that school your first choice. These awards are not transferrable, unlike the National Merit Scholarship and most corporate-sponsored awards.

Don’t worry if you named a school as your first choice but you’re unsure. You can always log in to your application and change the school you selected.

1. Promptly Provide Anything NMSC Requests

The National Merit Scholarship Program is a competitive opportunity with big dollars at stake. National Merit Scholars at USF receive a scholarship that covers their full cost of attendance for fall and spring, study abroad scholarships, and many other exclusive opportunities.

With available benefits like those, it’s vital you hit all the deadlines and provide all the required documents as soon as possible. NSMC will tell you if you’ve been selected as a finalist in February of your senior year. Until then, continually monitor your email and NMSC account for anything you may be missing.

Download National Merit Semifinalist Next Steps Brochure

That’s a lot of information about the next steps for National Merit Semifinalists. For an easy reference guide with all your next steps, download our free brochure.

About Daniel Goodson

Daniel Goodson is a former Content Developer for USF’s Office of Innovative Education. He enjoys helping students and their families streamline the college application process by sharing new trends that impact outreach, applying, and admissions.

Previous Post

Summer Tips for High School Students Preparing for College

Why Is Attending College Orientation Important?

How to Become a National Merit Semifinalist

Basic Entry Requirements for National Merit Semifinalists

National Merit Semifinalists are students who have achieved exceptional scores on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). These students are recognized for their academic excellence and potential for future success. While specific entry requirements may vary by year and state, there are some general criteria that applicants must meet to be considered as National Merit Semifinalists. Here are the basic entry requirements:

1. PSAT/NMSQT Score: Students must take the PSAT/NMSQT during their junior year of high school. The selection process is based on the student's performance on this test, particularly the critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills sections.

2. Eligibility Index: The PSAT/NMSQT score is converted into a Selection Index score, which is used to determine eligibility for National Merit Semifinalist status. The Selection Index is calculated by doubling the sum of the three section scores.

3. Cutoff Scores: Each year, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) determines cutoff scores for each state. These scores represent the minimum score required to qualify as a Semifinalist. Students who meet or exceed the cutoff score for their state are named Semifinalists.

4. Academic Standing: In addition to meeting the PSAT/NMSQT score requirements, students must also be enrolled as a high school student, have plans to graduate, and intend to attend college full-time. They must also be in good academic standing and meet any additional requirements set by their school or district.

5. Application Submission: Students who achieve Semifinalist status must complete an application provided by the NMSC. This application includes personal information, academic records, extracurricular activities, leadership positions, and an essay. It is important to submit the application by the specified deadline.

It's worth noting that becoming a National Merit Semifinalist is a significant accomplishment, but it is just the first step in the National Merit Scholarship competition. Semifinalists must meet additional requirements and advance to the Finalist stage to be eligible for scholarship consideration. Finalists are selected based on their academic record, extracurricular involvement, recommendations, and SAT scores.

It's important for students aspiring to become National Merit Semifinalists to familiarize themselves with the specific entry requirements and deadlines for their state and year. They should also work diligently to excel academically, prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT, and actively participate in meaningful extracurricular activities to enhance their chances of qualifying for this prestigious recognition.

National Merit Semifinalist Qualifying Scores

The National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes outstanding high school students in the United States and awards scholarships to students who excel academically. The program uses the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) as the initial screening tool to identify potential Semifinalists. The qualifying scores for National Merit Semifinalists vary from year to year and differ among states.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) determines the cutoff scores for each state based on a percentile ranking. The scores are not fixed numbers but rather the scores at which the top-performing students in each state are selected as Semifinalists. The NMSC sets the cutoff scores to ensure a consistent level of academic excellence across different states.

To become a National Merit Semifinalist, students must typically achieve a high Selection Index score on the PSAT/NMSQT. The Selection Index is calculated by doubling the sum of the three section scores: the Reading, Writing and Language, and Math sections. The maximum Selection Index score is 228.

The qualifying scores for National Merit Semifinalists can vary significantly between states. Some states, particularly those with highly competitive academic environments, have higher cutoff scores compared to others. Historically, states like California, New York, and Massachusetts have had higher cutoff scores due to the large pool of high-achieving students in these states.

It's important to note that the qualifying scores for National Merit Semifinalists are not released publicly by the NMSC. They are only disclosed to school officials, who then inform the students who have achieved Semifinalist status. The cutoff scores are typically announced in September of the student's senior year, around the same time when Semifinalists are notified.

The qualifying scores for National Merit Semifinalists are highly competitive, and only a small percentage of test-takers achieve this distinction. Achieving a high score on the PSAT/NMSQT is a significant accomplishment, and it opens doors to additional scholarship opportunities and recognition from colleges and universities.

It's important for students who aspire to become National Merit Semifinalists to strive for academic excellence, prepare thoroughly for the PSAT/NMSQT, and aim to achieve a high Selection Index score. Additionally, it's essential to stay informed about the specific cutoff scores for their state and year to have a clear understanding of the level of performance required for Semifinalist qualification.

What Are the Steps to Becoming a National Merit Semifinalist?

Becoming a National Merit Semifinalist is a prestigious achievement that recognizes high-achieving students in the United States. The selection process is based on a student's performance on the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) and involves several steps. Here is a detailed overview of the steps to becoming a National Merit Semifinalist:

1. Take the PSAT/NMSQT: The first step is to register for and take the PSAT/NMSQT, which is typically administered in October of the junior year of high school. It's important to check with your school or guidance counselor for the specific test date and registration information.

2. Achieve a High Selection Index Score: The PSAT/NMSQT assesses critical reading, writing and language, and math skills. Your scores from each section will be used to calculate a Selection Index score, which is the sum of the three section scores multiplied by 2. It's important to aim for a high Selection Index score, as it is a determining factor for National Merit Semifinalist qualification.

3. Meet Entry Requirements: To be eligible for National Merit Semifinalist consideration, you must meet the entry requirements set by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). These requirements include being enrolled as a high school student, planning to enroll full-time in a college or university, and being a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

4. Wait for Notification: In September of the student's senior year, the NMSC announces the cutoff scores for National Merit Semifinalists. These scores represent the performance level required to qualify as a Semifinalist in each state. The NMSC notifies school officials, who then inform the students who have achieved Semifinalist status.

5. Complete the Semifinalist Application: Students who are named National Merit Semifinalists must complete a detailed application, which includes information about their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and an essay. The application is typically submitted in October of the senior year.

6. Advance to Finalist Standing: After the Semifinalist application is reviewed and evaluated, a select number of students are chosen as National Merit Finalists. Finalists must demonstrate an outstanding academic record, receive strong recommendations from their school, and submit SAT or ACT scores that confirm their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT.

7. Apply for National Merit Scholarships: National Merit Finalists are eligible to apply for various scholarships offered through the National Merit Scholarship Program. These scholarships can be sponsored by corporations, colleges, or the NMSC itself. Finalists must submit additional information and meet specific deadlines to be considered for these scholarships.

It's important to note that the steps and deadlines may vary slightly each year, so it's crucial for students to stay informed by consulting their school, guidance counselors, and the official National Merit Scholarship Corporation website for the most up-to-date information.

Becoming a National Merit Semifinalist requires dedication, academic excellence, and strong performance on the PSAT/NMSQT. It's an accomplishment that can provide recognition, scholarship opportunities, and enhance college applications.

How Do You Get the PSAT Score You Need to Become a National Merit Semifinalist?

To become a National Merit Semifinalist, you need to achieve a high Selection Index score on the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). The Selection Index score is calculated based on your performance in the critical reading, writing and language, and math sections of the exam. Here are some strategies to help you get the PSAT score you need to become a National Merit Semifinalist:

1. Understand the Scoring System: Familiarize yourself with how the PSAT/NMSQT is scored. Each section is scored on a scale of 160 to 760, resulting in a total score ranging from 320 to 1520. The Selection Index score, which determines National Merit eligibility, is calculated by doubling the sum of the three section scores.

2. Start Early: Begin your preparation well in advance of the PSAT/NMSQT. This will give you enough time to cover all the necessary content and develop effective test-taking strategies.

3. Review Content: The PSAT/NMSQT assesses your knowledge in critical reading, writing and language, and math. Review the key concepts and skills tested in each section. Use study materials, textbooks, online resources, and practice tests to reinforce your understanding of these topics.

4. Take Practice Tests: Practice tests are invaluable in preparing for the PSAT/NMSQT. They familiarize you with the format, content, and timing of the exam. By taking multiple practice tests, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses and focus on areas that need improvement.

5. Analyze Your Mistakes: After taking practice tests, carefully review your answers, especially the ones you got wrong. Understand why you made mistakes and learn from them. This process helps you identify patterns of errors and develop strategies to avoid similar mistakes in the future.

6. Develop Test-Taking Strategies: The PSAT/NMSQT is a timed test, so it's crucial to manage your time effectively. Learn strategies such as skipping difficult questions and returning to them later, eliminating answer choices, and pacing yourself throughout each section.

7. Seek Additional Resources: Consider utilizing additional resources to enhance your preparation. Online tutorials, study guides, and prep courses can provide valuable insights and strategies specific to the PSAT/NMSQT.

8. Work on Speed and Accuracy: The PSAT/NMSQT is not only about knowing the content but also about being able to answer questions efficiently. Practice working under time constraints to improve both your speed and accuracy.

9. Utilize Official Materials: The College Board, which administers the PSAT/NMSQT, provides official practice materials that closely resemble the actual exam. These resources can give you a better understanding of the test structure and content.

10. Maintain a Study Schedule: Create a study plan that includes regular practice sessions and review. Consistency is key to improving your performance over time.

Remember that achieving the PSAT score you need for National Merit Semifinalist qualification requires dedication, hard work, and a strategic approach to your preparation. Set clear goals, stay motivated, and seek support from teachers, tutors, or peers if needed. With focused effort and effective study strategies, you can increase your chances of reaching the score necessary to become a National Merit Semifinalist.

Becoming a National Merit Semifinalist is a prestigious achievement that requires focused preparation and dedication. By understanding the basic entry requirements, studying diligently for the PSAT/NMSQT, and employing effective test-taking strategies, you can increase your chances of reaching the score needed to qualify. Remember to start early, utilize practice tests and official materials, analyze your mistakes, and seek additional resources if necessary. With perseverance and a strategic approach, you can position yourself for success and the opportunity to become a National Merit Semifinalist.

You Might Also Like

A Brief Introduction to College Scholarships

Do you know how to win college scholarship? Know detail information about college scholarship & how to get scholarship successfully? - Read our blog carefully

The Ultimate Guide to College Interviews

College interviews, although nerve wrecking, can be the best chance for you to impress the admissions officer. We give you tips on how to ace your interview.

The Perfect College Essay Structure

The Fundamentals of writing an Essay which includes the process of brainstorming, drafting, and finalizing.

Free Resources

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, national merit finalist - how to win the scholarship.

PSAT Info and Strategies

Many students take the PSAT in the fall of their junior year. What a lot of students may not notice is the full name of the test is PSAT/NMSQT, or Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Thus, the PSAT is not just good practice for your SATs. It's also the first step in becoming a National Merit Finalist and hopefully, earning a $2,500 scholarship from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).

In this article, we'll discuss what steps you need to take to become a National Merit Finalist and compete for a scholarship. We'll also give you advice on how to write a strong application and maximize your chances of becoming a National Merit Scholar.

Here's how the numbers break down:

Each year, about 1.6 million students take the PSAT. Of the juniors who take the exam, about 16,000 earn scores that qualify them as Semifinalists (that's around 1%). This group is narrowed down to 15,000, who become Finalists. Of this group, about 7,500 are awarded scholarships of $2,500 a year (that can be renewed each year you're in college).

This article will explain the three key steps you need to follow to win the National Merit scholarship, from meeting the entry requirements, to scoring well on the PSAT, to submitting a standout application.

Step 1: Meet the Entry Requirements

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) requires you to have a few qualifications to even be considered for the scholarship:

You must be enrolled as a high school student, progressing normally toward graduation.

You must plan to enroll full time in college starting the fall following high school graduation.

You must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident planning to become a U.S. citizen.

These requirements will be checked with a few questions at the beginning of the PSAT.

Step 2: Score in the Top 1% of the PSAT

Becoming a National Merit Finalist is competitive and requires a top score on the PSAT. Although it varies from state to state, most students must score above 1400 (out of 1520) to qualify as a Semifinalist, which means they can compete to move on to Finalist standing.

How can you achieve a top 1% score on the PSAT? Prepare with high-quality materials. Identify your weak points and work to improve them. If the Reading section confuses you, spend the majority of your time practicing those sections. If math isn't your thing, commit yourself to drilling PSAT Math problems. The National Merit competition uses a Selection Index that is based on your Reading, Math, and Writing test scores, so mastering all three sections is key.

Take control of your learning and study with practice questions and sample tests. This practice will also pay off later when you take the SATs in the spring of your junior year and fall of senior year.

Bonus: Aiming for a National Merit Scholarship? If you're not sure you can self-study your way to a qualifying PSAT score, you'll love our PSAT prep program, PrepScholar .

We designed our program to learn your strengths and weaknesses through advanced statistics and customize your prep to be as effective as possible for you. When you start with PrepScholar, you'll take a diagnostic that will determine your weaknesses in over forty PSAT skills. PrepScholar then creates a study program specifically customized for you .

To improve each skill, you'll take focused lessons dedicated to each skill, with over 20 practice questions per skill. This will train you for your specific area weaknesses, so your time is always spent most effectively to raise your score.

We also force you to focus on understanding your mistakes and learning from them. If you make the same mistake over and over again, we'll call you out on it.

There's no other prep system out there that does it this way, which is why we get better score results than any other program on the market.

Check it out today with a 5-day free trial:

For more info on prepping for the PSAT, check out our detailed guide to attaining National Merit Semifinalist status.

Step 3: Submit an Excellent Application

Complete the NMSC application requirements by fall of your senior year (usually early October). This application allows 15,000 of the 16,000 Semifinalists to move on to Finalist standing.

If you don't become a Finalist or don't qualify, you may still get word that you're a Commended Student or remain as a Semifinalist, which are great distinctions that will stand out on college applications. However, only Finalists are eligible for National Merit Scholarship awards.

The online NMSC application is the same as your college application in some ways and different in other ways.

Similarities

You must submit the following:

• Your academic record (transcript)
• SAT scores*
• Information about your activities and leadership roles
• A personal essay

*You have to take the SATs on approved dates, usually in the fall of your senior year, and make sure to send along your score report to NMSC. They need to receive your scores by December 31st of your senior year. While there is no strict cutoff for SAT scores, they must be competitive like your PSAT scores (usually around 1400 or above) so they know your PSAT wasn't a fluke.

Differences

• A recommendation from your high school principal or someone the principal designates as a school official
• Information about your school's curricula and grading system

Let's dig into each component to maximize your chance of building a strong application to win the National Merit Scholar title.

Academic Record and SAT Scores

The National Merit Corporation is first and foremost looking to award academic achievement. There is no strict cutoff, but a competitive GPA (3.5 and above) and high SAT scores (approximately 1400 and above) are recommended. Your academic record should also show that you challenged yourself with honors and AP classes. When you're a high school junior, there isn't much you can do about this, other than continue to excel in your classes.

Ready to go beyond just reading about the SAT? Then you'll love the free five-day trial for our SAT Complete Prep program . Designed and written by PrepScholar SAT experts , our SAT program customizes to your skill level in over 40 subskills so that you can focus your studying on what will get you the biggest score gains.

Click on the button below to try it out!

Extracurricular Activities and Community Service

The NMC is also looking at the skills and accomplishments shown in your application. Demonstrated leadership goes a long way--for example, leading in Student Council or other student organizations.

Your activities should reveal your passions and interests--it is usually better to show "depth over breadth." In other words, get deeply involved in a few activities you're passionate about rather than showing minor participation in every club, team, and organization your school has to offer. Almost all activities are valuable if they show your commitment, leadership potential, and ability to work with and help others.

Recommendations

Recommendations go a long way. Cultivate good relationships with your teachers, counselor , and principal and provide a "brag sheet" for them with the qualities and accomplishments you would like them to include in your recommendation.

Your brag sheet may include the following:

• What six adjectives best describe you?
• What do you consider your greatest accomplishment(s)?
• What are your strongest goals for the next five years?
• What is a meaningful experience you have had during high school?

These anecdotes will make writing a lot easier, and they'll thank you for this.

Make sure to ask for your recommendation at least three weeks in advance of the deadline, and follow up with your writer to make sure it'll be submitted on time. The earlier you notify them, the more ahead you'll be of your classmates, most of whom will need college application letters.

Personal Essay

The personal essay adds your voice to your application materials. Your essay is the place where you can share your unique story and perspective and make your application materials come to life.

Here is an example of a past National Merit essay question:

To help the reviewers get to know you, describe an experience you have had, a person who has influenced you, or an obstacle you have overcome. Explain why this is meaningful to you. Use your own words and limit your response to the space provided.

The space allows for about 500 - 600 words.

You should focus on two important components of the essay. First, the NMC wants to see that you can express yourself clearly and powerfully through writing . Make sure to proofread, edit, and revise for any spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, or weaknesses in syntax and diction.

Second, your essay reveals how you think about yourself , your accomplishments, and your goals. What do your experiences mean to you? What do they reveal about your identity? Spend some time brainstorming before you decide what aspects of your identity are most important to share with the NMC readers.

For example, did a group science fair project show you the power of collaboration in making new discoveries? Did a Student Council debate reveal the complexity of perspectives on a single issue? Did Lisa Simpson teach you the importance of sticking to your principles, even if your family may not always agree?

The topics are endless, and there is no best answer, but whatever you choose should reveal something significant about who you are . Once you have your first draft, ask a friend, family member, counselor, or English teacher for feedback on what worked and what didn't. It's a short essay, so make sure every sentence is there for a reason and important for telling your story.

In Conclusion

Staying motivated and committing yourself to all these goals will put you in the best position toward becoming a National Merit Finalist. Remember, only 15,000 students (< 1%) are chosen as Finalists, and of those, only about 7,500 students receive scholarships. On a percentage basis, it's even more competitive than getting into the Ivy League, so even with all your hard work, you'll still need a certain amount of luck!

NSMC notifies students if they have become finalists in February of their senior year. Scholarship notifications go out in March. By that time, most of your college applications will be done and submitted.

Now you just have to try to relax and wait for the decisions to come! If you complete all the steps mentioned above, you can be confident that you've done all you can – now hopefully the National Merit Scholarship Corporation will recognize all your hard work.

What's Next?

Want more tips on how to get a top PSAT score? Check out our guide on how to get a perfect PSAT score for all the info you need to know.

Are you striving for perfection on the SAT? Read our detailed guide by our resident SAT full scorer .

Aiming to get into a top-tier school? Check out our article: What's a good SAT score for the Ivy League?

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points? We have the industry's leading SAT prep program. Built by Harvard grads and SAT full scorers, the program learns your strengths and weaknesses through advanced statistics, then customizes your prep program to you so you get the most effective prep possible.

Check out our 5-day free trial today:

Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

Student and Parent Forum

Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com , allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. Ask questions; get answers.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

Merit Scholarship Opportunities

  Alert Content Goes Here

Additional Merit Scholarships

The blair community scholars scholarship application for current first years is now available., national merit scholarships.

Vanderbilt provides scholarship assistance for admitted and enrolled students who are named National Merit Finalists. Students must designate Vanderbilt as their first choice school with the National Merit Corporation by National Merit's final deadline and enroll as an entering freshman student to receive Vanderbilt's National Merit Scholarship. For those finalists who also receive one of Vanderbilt's merit scholarships, we guarantee an additional $2,000 in National Merit total scholarship dollars per year from all sources (with Vanderbilt supplementing any smaller corporate or one-time National Merit Corporation awards). Beginning with entering students for the fall 2023 class, those finalists who do not receive an additional merit scholarship from Vanderbilt will receive a total of up to $6,000 per year in National Merit scholarship dollars from all sources (with Vanderbilt supplementing any smaller corporate or one-time National Merit Corporation awards). For students entering Vanderbilt before fall 2023, the scholarship total is up to $5,000 per year.

Vanderbilt offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships in amounts starting from $8,000 per year. Candidates for these scholarships will be identified by the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships on the basis of academic achievement and fulfillment of any specific scholarships qualifications. Students wishing to ensure their consideration for these awards are encouraged to submit the Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship application by December 1, 2023.

These additional merit-based scholarships include the following:

• The Blair Community Scholars Program for Blair students who are committed to civic-minded service, fostering diversity in the arts, cultivating new audiences for the arts and strengthening public arts education (full cost of attendance and summer study stipend; eligible applicants must also demonstrate financial need)
• The Carell Family Scholarship for students who have held part-time employment during their high school years and demonstrate financial need (full tuition and fees),
• The Clark Scholars Program provides scholarship and programmatic assistance to meritorious engineering undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need ($15,000 per year plus assistance for summer immersive experiences),
• The Curb Leadership Scholarship for students who place creativity at the center of their lives and use their talents and leadership to transform their communities ($8,000),

Calculate for all schools

Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, national merit semifinalists.

I've heard that becoming a National Merit Semifinalist is a pretty big deal. What kind of benefits do Semifinalists get, and what steps do they need to take to become Finalists?

Becoming a National Merit Semifinalist is indeed a significant achievement, as it places you in the top 1% of PSAT test-takers in your state. There are several benefits to being a Semifinalist, and with careful preparation, you can advance to become a Finalist, which could lead to lucrative scholarship opportunities and increase your chances of getting into top colleges.

Here are some benefits that come with being a National Merit Semifinalist:

1. Recognition: Being a Semifinalist is an impressive academic accomplishment that can make your college application stand out.

2. Scholarships: Some colleges and corporations offer scholarships for Semifinalists and Finalists.

3. Increased college admissions chances: Many top colleges view National Merit Semifinalists favorably, as it reflects strong academic performance.

To advance to the Finalist stage, Semifinalists need to take the following steps:

1. Apply for Finalist standing: The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) will provide you with an application, which you must submit before the specified deadline. This includes information about your academic record, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and honors received.

2. Take the SAT: You need to take the SAT and achieve a score that confirms your high score on the PSAT/NMSQT. The NMSC will communicate the required score range. Make sure you take the SAT no later than the first semester of your senior year, as they consider the SAT scores from the dates specified by NMSC.

3. Send SAT scores to NMSC: When you take the SAT, you also need to send your scores to the NMSC by entering their code (0085) on the SAT application form.

4. Maintain a strong academic record: The NMSC will look at your cumulative high school GPA through the end of your junior year. It is essential to keep up your grades to maintain your status as a strong candidate.

5. High school endorsement: Your high school principal or other designated school official will need to provide a written recommendation for you.

6. Write an essay: As part of the application, you will need to submit an essay that highlights your achievements, goals, and personal qualities.

After you complete these steps, the NMSC will notify you in February if you have been selected as a Finalist. If you advance to Finalist standing, you may be eligible for National Merit scholarships, as well as scholarships from colleges and corporations. Overall, being a National Merit Semifinalist and potentially a Finalist can be a significant boost to your college application and provide valuable financial support.

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

• Entertainment
• KSAT Insider
• Newsletters

4 San Antonio high school seniors win 2024 corporate-sponsored National Merit Scholarship awards

Scholars were selected from students who advanced to the finalist level.

Julie Moreno , Executive Producer/Digital Content

SAN ANTONIO – The National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced Wednesday that four San Antonio seniors have won corporate-sponsored National Merit Scholarship awards.

The scholars were selected from students who advanced to the Finalist level in the National Merit Scholarship competition.

Recommended Videos

Corporate sponsors provide the scholarships for finalists who are either children of their employees, residents of the community they serve, or who plan to pursue related college majors or careers. The awards could be a single payment or an annual stipend between $1,000 and $10,000 that is renewable for up to four years of college.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is based on scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Less than 1% of the nation’s seniors are chosen as semifinalists. To be considered for a scholarship, semifinalists then must fulfill requirements that include a detailed application and essay, an outstanding academic record, an endorsement by a high school official and a qualifying SAT or ACT score.

There are currently over 15,000 National Merit Finalists. At the end of the 2024 competition, 6,870 finalists will be selected to receive National Merit Scholarships totaling $26 million.

San Antonio area’s corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship winners:

• Trajan P. Falk of Smithson Valley High School was awarded a scholarship from USAA. He’s planning a career in mechanical engineering.
• Henry H. Guo of Basis San Antonio - Shavano Campus was awarded a scholarship from USAA. He’s planning a career in computer engineering.
• Orry D. Huang of Louis D. Brandeis High School was awarded a scholarship from USAA. He’s planning a career in computer science.
• Eric J. Zou of Basis San Antonio - Shavano Campus was awarded an Honorary Merit Scholarship. The honorary scholarship signifies that the scholar’s educational plans or other awards preclude receipt of a monetary scholarship. Zou plans a career in electrical engineering.

Copyright 2024 by KSAT - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Julie moreno.

Julie Moreno has worked in local television news for more than 25 years. She came to KSAT as a news producer in 2000. After producing thousands of newscasts, she transitioned to the digital team in 2015. She writes on a wide variety of topics from breaking news to trending stories and manages KSAT’s daily digital content strategy.

Member Login

Forgot username or password?

Are you a new user, what is id.me • video tutorials for id.me.

• Youth & Education

Youth Scholarships

The VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generation. If you are a democracy-loving high school student interested in a $35,000 college scholarship or a patriotic middle school student interested in winning $5,000, these scholarships may be for you.

Voice of Democracy

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, nearly 25,000 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. 

The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000. Before submitting your essay, download the  2024-2025 entry form here  and find your sponsoring  local VFW Post  as applications must be turned in by  midnight, Oct. 31 . 

The 2024-25 theme is:  "Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision?"

About the 2023-2024 winner ...

Sophia Lin, a high school junior at BASIS Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona, was named the 2023-2024 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Sophia's speech on the theme, "What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?" won her a $35,000 college scholarship. Sophia was sponsored by Scottsdale VFW Post 3513. Watch as Sophia delivered her speech during the VFW's Parade of Winners award  ceremony or read it here .

Want to catch up on everything that happened this year? You can watch the full Parade of Winners ceremony which was streamed live on Facebook, or see this year's complete list of winners .

Patriot's Pen

Each year, nearly 68,800 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of nearly $1 million in state and national awards. Each first place state winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000! 

The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. Before submitting your essay,  download the 2024-2025 entry form here  and find your sponsoring local VFW Post  as applications must be turned in by  midnight, Oct. 31 . 

The 2024-25 theme is:  "My Voice in America's Democracy?"

Bryant Day, an eighth grade student from Ashland, Ohio, was named the 2023-2024 Patriot's Pen first place winner. His essay on the theme, "How Are You Inspired by America?" won the national first place $5,000 award. Bryant was sponsored by VFW Post 9943 and its Auxiliary in Mansfield, Ohio.

Watch as Bryant delivered his winning essay during the VFW's Parade of Winners streamed live on Facebook, or read  his essay here.  See the complete list of 2024 national winners .

Youth Scholarships Additional Resources

2023-2024 VOD Winners

Voice of democracy entry form, voice of democracy national scholarship listing, 2023-2024 patriot's pen winners, patriot's pen entry form, patriot's pen national scholarship listing, sponsor a youth scholarship.

Los Alamos Reporter

The news from los alamos & beyond, ped: eight new mexico seniors (seven from lahs) receive corporate-sponsored national merit scholarship.

PED NEWS RELEASE The National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced today that eight New Mexico seniors have won corporate-sponsored National Merit Scholarship awards. They are among approximately 770 distinguished high school seniors to receive the honor.   “I applaud both Batelle and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for their celebration of academic excellence,” said  Public Education Secretary Arsenio Romero . “Their commitment to nurturing talent and fostering student success exemplifies the essence of corporate responsibility.”  Selected as winners of the National Merit Battelle Scholarship are: 

Scholars were selected from students who advanced to the finalist level in the National Merit Scholarship competition and met criteria of their scholarship sponsors. Corporate sponsors provide National Merit Scholarships for finalists who are children of their employees, who are residents of communities the company serves, or who plan to pursue college majors or careers the sponsor wishes to encourage.  High school juniors entered the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program when they took the 2022 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. In September 2023, more than 16,000 semifinalists were designated on a state-representational basis in numbers proportional to each state’s percentage of the national total of graduating high school seniors. Semifinalists were the highest-scoring program entrants in each state and represented less than one percent of the nation’s seniors.  To be considered for a National Merit Scholarship, semifinalists had to fulfill requirements to advance to finalist standing. Each semifinalist was asked to complete a detailed scholarship application, which included writing an essay and providing information about extracurricular activities, awards, and leadership positions. Semifinalists also had to have an outstanding academic record, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, and earn SAT® or ACT® scores that confirmed their qualifying test performance. From the semifinalist group, over 15,000 met finalist requirements.  By the conclusion of the 2024 competition, more than 6,870 finalists will have been selected to receive National Merit Scholarships totaling nearly $26 million.    

Share this:

Discover more from los alamos reporter.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Wilmette Student Awarded National Merit Scholarship Sponsored By S&P

W ILMETTE, IL — A senior at New Trier High School earned a corporate-sponsored National Merit Scholarship, becoming one of the first group of students to be awarded money for college from the Evanston-based nonprofit.

Emily Boyd, of Wilmette, was among the first group of winners to be announced as part of the 69th annual National Merit scholarship program.

Boyd's scholarship was paid for by S&P Global, a New York-based financial company, which sets aside money for college scholarships for children of some of its more than 40,000 employees.

About 94 corporations and business organizations finance the corporate-sponsored awards, contributing a total of more than $870 million over the nearly seven decades of National Merit scholarships.

The awards range from $1,000 to $10,000 per year, with some renewable annually for four years of undergraduate study and others offering one-time payments of $2,500 to $5,000 for use at accredited U.S. colleges or universities.

More than 16,000 seniors were designated National Merit semifinalists on a state-representational basis last fall. Each state's number of semifinalists is proportional its percentage of graduating high schooler nationwide.

Three dozen students from New Trier Township High School's class of 2024 qualified as semifinalists, up from 19 the prior year.

Semifinalists were the highest-scoring program entrants in each state and represented less than one percent of the nation’s seniors.

To be considered for a National Merit Scholarship, semifinalists first had to meet the requirements for advancing to become a finalist standing. They needed to fill out an application with an essay and information about their extracurricular activities, awards, and leadership positions.

They also needed to have an outstanding academic record, collect a recommendation from a high school official and earn qualifying standardized test scores.

More than 6,870 finalists will be awarded nearly $26 million worth of National Merit Scholarships by the end of this year's competition.

Winners are picked from finalist candidates with the strongest combination of academic skills and achievements, extracurricular accomplishments and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

In addition to the corporate-sponsored awards, about 160 colleges and universities will sponsor scholarships for about 3,800 students, and another 2,500 students will receive $2,500 cash from the nonprofit's own funds.

The article Wilmette Student Awarded National Merit Scholarship Sponsored By S&P appeared first on Wilmette-Kenilworth Patch .

ISU trio headed abroad after selection for prestigious Fulbright awards

Posted 8 hours ago

AMES, Iowa – Two Iowa State University students and one recent graduate will travel abroad after they were selected for the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student Program.

The Fulbright awards, announced this month, give grants to participants who wish to pursue graduate studies, conduct research or teach English abroad. The three awardees accepted into the program this year with ISU connections are:

Summer Awad , a graduate student from Knoxville, Tennessee, earning a master’s of fine arts in English, will be an English teaching assistant in Morocco.

McKenna Flood , a senior from Cedar Rapids majoring in English and psychology, will be an English teaching assistant in Timor-Leste.

Katelyn Moje , a native of Pilger, Nebraska, who graduated from Iowa State in 2022 with a degree in mechanical engineering, will conduct graduate work in Finland regarding how food loss and waste contributes to climate change.

Participants meet, work, live with and learn from the people of the host country, facilitating cultural exchange through direct interaction in the classroom, field and home. Grant lengths and dates vary by award but generally cover a period of 9-10 months.

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program expands perspectives through academic and professional advancement and cross-cultural dialogue, according to the program’s website.

In partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers opportunities in all academic disciplines to passionate and accomplished graduating college seniors, graduate students and young professionals.

Recipients are selected in an open, merit-based competition that considers leadership potential, academic and/or professional achievement, and record of service. The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government.

The program is administered at Iowa State through the Nationally Competitive Awards office. ISU students work with an ISU committee to write an essay and complete an application, which is then reviewed by a Fulbright selection committee. Applications approved by the campus group then move onto a national screening committee composed of scholars in the United States to determine which candidates become semifinalists. Semifinalists are reviewed by commissions in each host country for final selection.

It's a highly competitive process, and ISU students spend up to eight weeks in the summer crafting their applications, said John Milstead, coordinator of nationally competitive awards. Milstead praised the high quality of this year’s ISU Fulbright applicants. In addition to the three selected for awards, two others were named alternates, which are candidates who can be promoted to finalist status if additional funding becomes available or another finalist decides not to pursue the award. That means five of the six semifinalists from Iowa State either received a grant offer or were named alternates.

“That shows the quality of the applicants. The quality of work each one proposed to do, whether that’s graduate study or English teaching, it’s one of the best applicant pools I’ve worked with,” Milstead said.

ISU students and recent alumni interested in applying for the program can find more information at  https://www.nationalawards.iastate.edu/fulbright . Applications are open and the campus deadline is Sept. 6.

John Milstead, Nationally Competitive Awards, 515-294-0172,  [email protected]

Fred Love, News Service, 515-294-0704, [email protected]

Two Iowa State University students and one recent graduate will travel abroad after they were selected for the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student Program. The Fulbright awards give grants to participants who wish to pursue graduate studies, conduct research or teach English abroad. In partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers opportunities in all academic disciplines to passionate and accomplished graduating college seniors, graduate students and young professionals.

“That shows the quality of the applicants. The quality of work each one proposed to do, whether that’s graduate study or English teaching, it’s one of the best applicant pools I’ve worked with.”

John Milstead, coordinator of nationally competitive awards

Iowa State's Fulbright alternates

Two ISU students were selected to be alternates, or candidates who can be promoted to finalist status if additional funding becomes available.

Abigail Shey , philosophy major from Cedar Rapids, Research/Study, Mozambique

Arilyn Tegtmeier-Oatman,  global resource systems major from Holtwood, Pennsylvania; English teaching assistant; Cote d’Ivoire

Find more Iowa State University news and research stories at  news.iastate.edu .

• Anniston/Gadsden

National Merit Scholarships: First round of Alabama honorees announced

• Published: Apr. 24, 2024, 10:00 a.m.

A group of Alabama students are among the 770 honored with corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarships. .shock - stock.adobe.com

• Leada Gore | [email protected]

A group of Alabama students are among the 770 honored with corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarships.

The scholarships are financed by 94 corporations, company foundations and business organizations and are awarded to finalists who are children of their employees, who are residents of the communities they serve or who plan to pursue college majors or careers the sponsor is encouraging. . Most of the awards are renewable for up to four years of college undergraduate study and provide annual stipends that range from $1,000 to $10,000 per year while others provide a single payment between $2,500 and $5,000 per year.

This is the first announcement in a series of National Merit Scholarship awards.

Here are Alabama’s recipients:

Madison McCullars – Oak Mountain High School, National Merit Southern Company Scholarship

William Sickles – Austin High School, National Merit 3M Scholarship

Emory Wagnon – Florence High School, National Merit United Services Automobile Association Scholarship

Kirthan Holcomb – Homeschool (Huntsville), National Merit Siemens Scholarship

Jenna Rutherford – Lee High School, National Merit Leidos Inc. Scholarship

Aaron Peck, Brooks High School, National Merit Boeing Scholarship

Andrew Crocker – Bob Jones High School, National Merit Leidos Inc. Scholarship

Abhishek Emani – James Clemens High School, National Merit Bentley Systems Scholarship

Neil Sethi – James Clemens High School, National Merit Northrop Grumman Scholarship

Zoe Widman – Bob Jones High School, National Merit Aerojet Rocketdyne Foundation Scholarship

Grayson Hydinger – Mountain Brook High School, National Merit Ascension Scholarship

Jessica Ma – Vestavia Hills High School, National Merit Southern Company Scholarship

Edward Pang – Vestavia Hills High School, National Merit Hubbell Foundation Scholarship

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — Travel and Tourism Industry — The History of Moscow City

The History of Moscow City

• Categories: Russia Travel and Tourism Industry

About this sample

Words: 614 |

Published: Feb 12, 2019

Words: 614 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof. Kifaru

Verified writer

• Expert in: Geography & Travel

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

13 pages / 6011 words

1 pages / 657 words

4 pages / 2143 words

6 pages / 3010 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Travel and Tourism Industry

The ethics in the hospitality industry play a pivotal role in shaping the reputation and success of businesses within this sector. Ethics encompass the principles and values that guide behavior, decision-making, and interactions [...]

Traveling is an enriching experience that allows individuals to explore new cultures, meet people from different backgrounds, and broaden their perspectives. In the summer of 2019, I had the opportunity to embark on an amazing [...]

Travelling is a topic that has been debated for centuries, with some arguing that it is a waste of time and money, while others believe that it is an essential part of life. In this essay, I will argue that travelling is not [...]

Traveling has always been a significant part of my life. From a young age, I have been fortunate enough to explore different cultures, experience new traditions, and immerse myself in the beauty of our world. My passion for [...]

When planning a business trip all aspects and decisions rely heavily on the budget set by the company for the trip. Once Sandfords have confirmed the location careful consideration should be used to choose the travel method and [...]

Tourism is an action of worldwide imperativeness and importance as it is a major force in the economy (Cooper et al. 2008). Tourism has undeniably developed as one of the most significant economic and social phenomena of the [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free