National Merit Scholarship Program: What It Is and How to Qualify

If you’re a high-achieving high school student looking for ways to earn scholarships and boost your college applications, the National Merit Scholarship Program is one opportunity you shouldn’t overlook. Recognizing top performers on the PSAT/NMSQT, this prestigious program awards millions of dollars in scholarships each year and opens doors to elite colleges and universities.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover what the National Merit Scholarship Program is, how to qualify, what scores you need, and the benefits that come with being a National Merit Semifinalist or Finalist.

What Is the National Merit Scholarship Program?

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition run by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). It’s designed to recognize and reward outstanding students based on their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT, typically taken in 11th grade.

Each year, about 1.5 million students enter the competition, and only around 7,500 earn a scholarship. While the numbers are competitive, the rewards are significant — from $2,500 National Merit Scholarships to full rides offered by participating colleges.

Why Is the Program Important?

Being named a National Merit Semifinalist or Finalist is not only prestigious but can also lead to:

  • College scholarships and financial aid
  • Admission advantages at selective schools
  • Recognition by top universities and employers
  • Additional scholarship offers from corporate and institutional sponsors

For students planning to attend college, this program can ease the financial burden and enhance your application profile.

How Do You Qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program?

The first and most important step is taking the PSAT/NMSQT in 11th grade. While students may take the PSAT earlier in 9th or 10th grade, only your junior year score counts toward National Merit qualification.

Steps to Enter:

  1. Take the PSAT/NMSQT in your junior year of high school.
  2. Meet eligibility requirements (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, enrolled in high school and planning to attend college full-time after graduation).
  3. Score in the top 1% of your state (Selection Index cutoff varies by state).
  4. If selected as a Semifinalist, submit a detailed scholarship application, including your SAT scores, transcripts, and a recommendation letter.

Understanding the PSAT/NMSQT Score and Selection Index

Your eligibility for the National Merit program depends on your Selection Index, which is calculated from your PSAT/NMSQT score. The index is the sum of your Reading, Writing, and Math scores, multiplied by 2.

Each state has its own cutoff score, which changes slightly each year. Typically, Selection Index cutoffs range from 207 to 223, depending on the competitiveness of your state.

Example:
If you scored:

  • Reading and Writing: 34
  • Math: 33
    Your total score = (34 + 34 + 33) × 2 = 202 (This would not meet most state cutoffs)

To be competitive, aim for a PSAT score of 1400 or higher.

Semifinalist vs. Finalist: What’s the Difference?

Semifinalist: If your score meets your state’s cutoff, you’ll be named a Semifinalist. About 16,000 students achieve this level.

Finalist: From there, you must submit a formal application and meet additional criteria. Roughly 15,000 students advance to become Finalists.

Scholarship Winner: Finally, about 7,500 students are selected to receive National Merit Scholarships.

Types of National Merit Scholarships

There are three types of scholarships awarded through the program:

  1. National Merit $2,500 Scholarships
    • One-time award funded by NMSC
    • Awarded solely based on academic excellence
  2. Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships
    • For children of employees or students in certain career fields or locations
    • Can be one-time or renewable
  3. College-Sponsored Scholarships
    • Offered by participating colleges to Finalists who choose to enroll
    • Some schools offer full tuition or even full-ride scholarships

Which Colleges Offer National Merit Scholarships?

Dozens of colleges offer generous packages to National Merit Finalists, including:

  • University of Alabama
  • University of Oklahoma
  • Texas A&M University
  • University of Arizona
  • Florida State University
  • Baylor University
  • University of Central Florida

Some institutions even offer honors college admission, priority registration, or housing perks to Finalists.

Benefits Beyond Money

Even if you don’t win a scholarship, being named a Semifinalist or Finalist offers:

  • A strong boost to your college applications
  • Enhanced recruitment interest from colleges
  • Possible merit-based aid even at colleges that don’t officially sponsor the program
  • Valuable recognition for resumes, internships, and scholarships

Tips to Qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program

  1. Take the PSAT/NMSQT seriously – this is not just a practice test.
  2. Start studying early – use official PSAT and SAT prep materials.
  3. Aim for perfection in Reading and Writing – since your Selection Index heavily weights verbal sections.
  4. Take the SAT early – preferably by December of your junior year.
  5. Submit your application on time if you become a Semifinalist.

Is the National Merit Program Worth It?

Yes — 100%. For students willing to put in the effort, the National Merit Scholarship Program offers life-changing opportunities. From financial aid to elite recognition, it’s one of the few scholarships awarded solely on academic performance.

By taking the PSAT/NMSQT in your junior year and striving for top scores, you’re not just preparing for the SAT — you’re opening doors to scholarships, college success, and a brighter future.

Want to Prepare Like a National Merit Finalist?

Explore our free PSAT and SAT prep guides, practice tests, and study plans designed to help you reach elite scores. Start your journey toward National Merit recognition today.