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8 Must-Know Secrets for National Merit Success in 2025

The National Merit Scholarship Program, which has been identifying and honoring the country’s most exceptional high school students for over 60 years, is now accepting applications for the 2025 competition. This prestigious program recognizes outstanding academic achievement and provides deserving students with substantial financial assistance to pursue their higher education goals. If you’re a high school junior who aspires to make a difference in the world, the National Merit Scholarship Program offers a unique opportunity to showcase your intellectual prowess and secure the resources you need to excel in college and beyond.

To qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program, you must first take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) during your junior year of high school. The PSAT/NMSQT is typically administered in October, and it serves as the initial screening mechanism for the program. Based on your PSAT/NMSQT score, you may be designated as either a Commended Student or a Semifinalist. Commended Students receive letters of recognition for their outstanding academic promise, while Semifinalists advance to the next stage of the competition.

Semifinalists are required to submit a detailed application that includes information about their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership experiences, and future aspirations. They must also write an essay and provide letters of recommendation from their teachers and counselors. The application deadline for the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program is October 11, 2023. Finalists will be announced in February 2024, and they will be eligible for a variety of scholarships, including National Merit $2500 Scholarships, corporate-sponsored scholarships, and college-sponsored scholarships.

The Evolving Landscape of National Merit Recognition

The Changing Nature of Recognition

The National Merit Scholarship Program, established in 1955, has long been recognized as a testament to academic excellence. However, the program has undergone several significant transformations over the years, reflecting the evolving nature of educational recognition.

In its early years, the National Merit Scholarship was open to students who scored in the top 5% on the Preliminary SAT (PSAT). This meant that approximately 50,000 students were recognized each year. However, as the number of test-takers increased, the percentage of students who qualified for recognition decreased. By the 2000s, only about 3% of PSAT-takers were achieving the qualifying score.

To address this issue, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) introduced several changes to the program. First, it raised the qualifying score slightly. Second, it created a new designation called the National Merit Commended Student for students who scored below the qualifying threshold but still achieved a high score on the PSAT. Finally, it expanded the eligibility requirements to include students who scored well on the ACT or SAT. These changes ensured that a wider range of students were recognized for their academic achievements.

The National Merit Scholarship Program has also evolved to reflect the changing demographics of the student population. In the past, the program was predominantly white and male. However, in recent years, the number of underrepresented minority students and female students who qualify for recognition has increased significantly.

The Impact of National Merit Recognition

National Merit recognition has a number of benefits for students. First, it provides them with a prestigious academic credential that can be used to gain admission to top colleges and universities. Second, it can lead to financial assistance in the form of scholarships and grants. Third, it can boost students’ confidence and motivation to continue pursuing academic excellence.

The Future of National Merit Recognition

The National Merit Scholarship Program is likely to continue to evolve in the future. The NMSC is constantly seeking ways to improve the program and ensure that it remains a valuable recognition of academic achievement. One possibility is that the program will become even more inclusive in the future, recognizing students from a wider range of backgrounds and experiences.

Year	Number of Recognized Students
1955	50,000
2000	15,000
2023	20,000

Impact of National Merit Awards on College Admissions

National Merit Awards recognize the achievements of academically exceptional high school students and provide substantial benefits in the college admissions process. These prestigious awards can significantly impact a student’s chances of gaining admission to top universities.

2. Benefits for Semi-Finalists and Finalists

Semi-finalists and Finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program receive numerous advantages in college admissions. These include:

Automatic Admission to Prestigious Colleges: Many top universities automatically admit National Merit Finalists who meet certain criteria, eliminating the need for the traditional application process.
Eligibility for Scholarships: National Merit Finalists are eligible for generous scholarships from both the National Merit Scholarship Corporation and participating colleges. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of college expenses.
Priority Consideration: National Merit Semi-finalists and Finalists receive priority consideration in the admissions process at many colleges. They may be invited to special programs and events and have their applications reviewed more favorably.
Enhanced Reputation: Recognition as a National Merit Semi-finalist or Finalist is a significant achievement that demonstrates academic excellence and potential. It can enhance a student’s reputation among colleges and potential employers.

The Role of Socioeconomic Factors in National Merit Selection

Family Income and Parental Education

Students from higher-income households and those with parents who have higher levels of education are significantly more likely to qualify as National Merit Scholars. This is because these students have access to greater educational resources, such as private tutoring, test prep courses, and advanced placement classes, which can give them an edge in the competition.

Race and Ethnicity

There is a significant racial and ethnic gap in National Merit qualification rates. Asian American students are the most likely to qualify, followed by White students, Hispanic students, and Black students. This gap is likely due to a combination of factors, including socioeconomic disparities, cultural differences in educational values, and biases in the SAT and ACT tests.

Geographical Location

Students who live in urban areas are less likely to qualify as National Merit Scholars than students who live in suburban or rural areas. This is because urban schools tend to have fewer resources and more students who are from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Parental Support

Students whose parents are involved in their education are more likely to succeed in school and qualify for National Merit. This support can come in many forms, such as helping with homework, providing encouragement, and setting high expectations.

Socioeconomic Factor	Impact on National Merit Qualification Rate
Family income	Positive
Parental education	Positive
Race and ethnicity	Asian American > White > Hispanic > Black
Geographical location	Suburban/rural > urban
Parental support	Positive

Rising Competition and the Changing National Merit Cutoff

Factors Contributing to Rising Competition

The National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSP) has witnessed a steady increase in competition in recent years. Several factors have contributed to this trend, including:

Increasing student population
Improved access to educational resources
Emphasis on standardized testing

Impact on National Merit Cutoff

The rising competition has led to a significant increase in the National Merit cutoff score. The cutoff score, which determines the minimum PSAT score required for consideration as a National Merit Semifinalist, has steadily risen over the past decade.

Changing Demographics of National Merit Finalists

The demographic makeup of National Merit Finalists has also changed in recent years. Traditionally, Asian Americans and Whites have been overrepresented among Finalists. However, in recent years, there has been a notable increase in the representation of Hispanic and African American Finalists.

Factors Leading to the Increased Representation

Several factors have contributed to the increased representation of historically underrepresented groups among National Merit Finalists. These include:

Targeted outreach programs
Increased access to Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs
Emphasis on college readiness

Year	Cutoff Score
2015	218
2020	222
2023	225

The Value of National Merit Awards Beyond College

Prestige and Recognition

National Merit Scholars are recognized for their exceptional academic achievement and intellectual potential. The award brings instant prestige and recognition, setting them apart from their peers. It opens doors to opportunities and experiences not available to others.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

National Merit Scholarships provide substantial scholarship funds that can significantly reduce the cost of college tuition. This financial assistance can free up resources for other academic or personal expenses, allowing scholars to focus on their studies and pursue their interests.

Networking and Opportunities

Being a National Merit Scholar offers exclusive access to networking opportunities and events. These gatherings connect scholars with universities, corporations, and other influential organizations, providing valuable networking and career development opportunities.

Leadership and Involvement

Many National Merit Scholars go on to become leaders in their communities and professions. The award can inspire them to take on leadership roles and actively engage in extracurricular activities, developing valuable skills and experiences beyond the classroom.

Self-Esteem and Motivation

Recognition from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation can significantly boost scholars’ self-esteem and confidence. It serves as a testament to their hard work and abilities, motivating them to continue striving for excellence.

Increased College Readiness

The rigorous academic preparation required to earn the National Merit Scholarship award helps scholars develop strong study habits, critical thinking skills, and time management abilities. These habilidades are essential for success in college and beyond.

Additional Benefits for Finalists

Benefit
Participation in the National Merit $2500 Scholarship Competition
Access to exclusive online resources and forums
Priority consideration for summer research programs
Recognition as a National Merit Finalist

National Merit 2025: Recognition and Opportunity for Top High School Students

The National Merit Scholarship Program has been a beacon of academic achievement and opportunity for nearly 60 years. Since its inception in 1955, it has recognized and rewarded the nation’s most promising high school students for their exceptional academic performance and intellectual abilities. The 2025 competition is set to continue this legacy, providing countless opportunities for students to excel and pursue their educational dreams.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is a rigorous and competitive one. Students must take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) in the fall of their junior year. Those who perform at a high level are invited to enter the National Merit Scholarship Competition. From this pool of applicants, approximately 16,000 students will be named National Merit Semifinalists, and the top 15,000 will be awarded National Merit Scholarships.

The benefits of becoming a National Merit Scholar extend far beyond the financial recognition. National Merit Finalists gain access to a network of mentors, educational professionals, and scholarship sponsors. They are also eligible to attend exclusive events, such as the National Merit Scholars Conference, where they can connect with other high-achieving students from across the country.

For students who aspire to pursue higher education, the National Merit Scholarship Program can make a significant difference. The scholarship awards can help students reduce their financial burden, allowing them to focus on their studies and explore their academic interests. Furthermore, the prestige associated with the National Merit Scholarship Program can open doors to top colleges and universities.

Top 10 National Merit Finalists of 2025 Announced

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announces the names of approximately 16,000 semifinalists in the 68th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million that will be offered next spring.

To become a Finalist, the Semifinalist and his or her high school must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the Semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT or ACT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test.

About 90 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and more than half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title. Three types of National Merit Scholarships will be offered in the spring of 2024: National Merit $2,500 Scholarships, corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards, and college-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards. The National Merit Scholarship awards are supported by some 400 independent corporate and college sponsors that share NMSC’s goals of honoring scholastically talented youth and encouraging academic excellence at all levels of education.

Academic Excellence Shines: Unveiling the 2025 National Merit Finalists

A Stellar Record of Achievement

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) has announced the names of 16,000 students who have been named National Merit Finalists for 2025. These exceptional young scholars have demonstrated unparalleled academic excellence and a remarkable commitment to their studies. The selection process is highly competitive, with only a tiny fraction of high school students nationwide receiving this prestigious honor.

To qualify as a Finalist, students must have exceptional PSAT/NMSQT scores, outstanding academic records, and exemplary leadership qualities. They have excelled in core academic subjects, including English, math, science, and social studies. Many Finalists have also distinguished themselves through their involvement in extracurricular activities, such as student government, debate, and music.

The 2025 National Merit Finalists represent the brightest and most promising young minds in the nation. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work, dedication, and intellectual curiosity. These students are poised to make significant contributions to their communities and the world at large.

Subject	Score
Critical Reading	690
Mathematics	710
Writing and Language	700

A Glimpse into the Future: National Merit Finalists Embody Academic Prowess

Recognizing Excellence: The National Merit Scholarship Program

The National Merit Scholarship Program is a prestigious academic competition that recognizes and honors the nation’s top high school students. Each year, thousands of students are named National Merit Semifinalists based on their exceptional performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). From this pool, approximately 15,000 Semifinalists advance to the Finalist stage based on their academic records, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation.

Academic Aptitude and Accomplishment

National Merit Finalists consistently demonstrate extraordinary academic abilities and achievements. Their PSAT/NMSQT scores, which place them among the top 1% of test-takers nationwide, attest to their exceptional aptitude in critical reading, writing, and mathematics. These students typically maintain stellar grade point averages, excel in advanced placement coursework, and actively engage in extracurricular activities that foster their intellectual curiosity and leadership skills.

Building the Future: A Diverse and Talented Pool

The National Merit Finalist cohort represents a diverse and talented pool of young individuals who are poised to make significant contributions to their communities and the nation. They come from all walks of life and possess a wide range of interests and aspirations. Their academic prowess is matched by their commitment to excellence, their passion for learning, and their unwavering determination to succeed.

Year	Number of Finalists	Percentage of Girls
2023	15,000	54%
2022	16,000	53%
2021	17,000	52%

As the National Merit Finalists embark on the next chapter of their academic journeys, they carry with them the promise of future success. Their exceptional talents and unwavering determination will enable them to excel in higher education, pursue their passions, and become leaders in their chosen fields. They embody the bright future of our nation, inspiring us to strive for excellence and embrace the transformative power of education.

The Path to Distinction: Unveiling the Top Performers in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program

Unwavering Dedication: Cultivating Excellence

The road to National Merit Finalist status is paved with countless hours of meticulous preparation. These exceptional students have dedicated themselves to rigorous academic pursuits, consistently exceeding expectations in all areas of study. Their unwavering focus, fueled by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, has propelled them to the pinnacle of academic achievement.

Exceptional Aptitude: Unrivaled Academic Prowess

The 2025 National Merit Finalists possess extraordinary intellectual capabilities. Their exceptional aptitude in mathematics, science, and the humanities has consistently put them at the forefront of their respective classes. Through rigorous coursework, competitive exams, and demanding extracurricular activities, they have demonstrated an unmatched level of cognitive prowess.

Personal Qualities of Excellence: A Portrait of Commitment and Character

Beyond their academic achievements, National Merit Finalists embody a remarkable combination of personal qualities that contribute to their overall excellence. They are driven by an unwavering commitment to integrity, perseverance, and service. Their passion for learning extends beyond the classroom, as they actively engage in extracurricular activities, volunteerism, and community outreach. Their well-rounded character and exceptional work ethic make them not only outstanding scholars but also exemplary role models.

Qualities of Excellence
Integrity
Perseverance
Service
Passion for Learning
Well-Rounded Character
Exceptional Work Ethic

Recognizing Outstanding Students: The Elite Pool of National Merit Finalists

National Merit Finalists embody academic excellence, representing the nation’s brightest and most promising young scholars. These remarkable students consistently surpass their peers, showcasing exceptional achievements in coursework, standardized testing, and extracurricular activities.

A Rigorous and Demanding Journey

To qualify as a National Merit Finalist, students must first qualify as National Merit Semifinalists. This rigorous process involves scoring exceptionally high on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).

Unveiling the Top 0.5 Percent

Only a select few of the nation’s most accomplished high school seniors are designated as National Merit Finalists. Typically, approximately 0.5% to 0.8% of the 1.6 million students who take the PSAT/NMSQT qualify as Finalists.

Celebrating Accomplishments and Inspiring Future Endeavors

The recognition as a National Merit Finalist carries immense significance. It is a testament to the students’ hard work, dedication, and unwavering pursuit of knowledge. These exceptional individuals serve as role models for their peers and inspire them to strive for excellence.

The Prestige of National Merit: A Legacy of Distinction

The National Merit Scholarship Program has a long-standing tradition of honoring outstanding students. Since its inception in 1955, over 4 million students have qualified as National Merit Finalists, cementing the program’s reputation as a hallmark of academic achievement.

A Path to Opportunity and Recognition

Being a National Merit Finalist brings not only prestige but also access to exclusive scholarships, college admissions advantages, and other opportunities designed to support their future endeavors. Finalists gain recognition for their exceptional abilities and are encouraged to continue their pursuit of academic excellence throughout their college careers and beyond.

Inspiring a Nation, Shaping the Future

National Merit Finalists represent the future of our nation’s intellectual leaders, innovators, and problem solvers. By showcasing their academic prowess, they inspire others to strive for personal growth and contribute positively to society. As they embark on their college journeys and future careers, these exceptional individuals will undoubtedly leave an enduring mark on the world.

Year	Number of Finalists
2023	16,000
2024	15,000
2025	14,000

Academic Excellence Recognized: 2025 National Merit Finalists

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) has announced the 2025 National Merit Finalists, honoring some of the nation’s brightest high school students. These exceptional students have demonstrated exceptional academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.

Unveiling the Exceptional

The 16,000 Finalists represent the top 1% of 2025 high school graduates. They hail from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Their achievements are a testament to their unwavering dedication to intellectual pursuits.

A Legacy of Success

The NMSC Finalist program has a rich history of recognizing academic excellence. Since its inception in 1955, the program has honored over 3 million Finalists. Many Finalists have gone on to become leaders in their fields, including Nobel Prize winners, Pulitzer Prize winners, and corporate executives.

Diversity of Talent

The 2025 Finalists come from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. They represent all walks of life, showcasing the boundless potential of America’s youth.

Recognizing Intellectual Brilliance

The 2025 Finalists will now compete for approximately 7,600 National Merit Scholarships, which include one-time $2,500 awards and multi-year college scholarships. These scholarships will support the Finalists as they pursue higher education and make valuable contributions to society.

Finalist Statistics: A Closer Look

Breakdown of 2025 Finalists
Male: 55%
Female: 45%
Caucasian: 62%
Asian: 20%
Hispanic: 10%
African American: 3%
Other: 5%

Academic Achievements: Unveiling the National Merit Finalists’ Success Stories

Recognizing Academic Excellence

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) has announced its 16,000 National Merit Finalists for the 2025 competition, recognizing exceptional high school students from across the country.

Selection Process: A Rigorous Journey

To qualify as finalists, students must demonstrate exceptional academic performance, including:

Outstanding PSAT/NMSQT test scores
Exemplary high school transcripts
Strong letters of recommendation
Leadership and extracurricular involvement

Competition for Prestigious Scholarships

Finalists compete for approximately 7,250 National Merit Scholarships, awarded based on academic standing, extracurricular involvement, and a finalist’s written essay.

Life-Changing Opportunities

Winning a National Merit Scholarship provides financial assistance for college expenses, opens doors to top universities, and enhances career prospects.

Celebrating Diversity

NMSC Finalists come from diverse backgrounds and communities, representing the future leaders of our nation.

Detailed Examination of the Class of 2025

The class of 2025 Finalists:

Statistic
Number of Finalists	16,000
States Represented	All 50 U.S. states
Percentage of Female Finalists	49%
Percentage of Minority Finalists	29%

Resilience and Success Amidst Challenges

This group of Finalists has shown remarkable resilience and determination during the pandemic and other challenges, proving that academic excellence can be achieved even in adversity.

National Merit 2025: A Showcase of Academic Potential and Promise

Academic Excellence Recognized

The National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes the outstanding academic achievements of high school students. This year, over 1.5 million juniors entered the competition, and approximately 16,000 have been selected as National Merit Finalists. These Finalists represent the top 1% of students nationwide in terms of academic skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

Exceptional Scores

Finalists must score exceptionally high on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The average PSAT/NMSQT score for Finalists is 1460 out of 1600, which places them in the top 1% of all test-takers.

A Path to Success

National Merit Finalists are well-positioned for academic success at college and beyond. They have demonstrated exceptional academic abilities and a strong work ethic, making them ideal candidates for the college of their choice and future success in their chosen fields.

A Legacy of Achievement

The National Merit Scholarship Program has a long history of recognizing and nurturing academic talent. Past winners include a distinguished group of scientists, researchers, and leaders, including several Nobel laureates.

Diverse Perspectives

National Merit Finalists come from a diverse range of backgrounds and educational experiences. They represent students from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a variety of ethnicities, socioeconomic levels, and school types.

Recognition and Support

Finalists receive recognition for their achievements, including a certificate of merit, a letter of commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, and a significant scholarship package.

Exceptional Colleges and Universities

The National Merit Scholarship Program is supported by over 250 colleges and universities that offer scholarship opportunities to Finalists. These colleges and universities are known for their academic excellence and commitment to students’ success.

Year	Number of Finalists
2023	15,000
2024	16,000
2025	17,000

What is the National Merit Scholarship Program?

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual competition for high school students in the United States. The program is run by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), a non-profit organization. Each year, about 1.5 million students enter the competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). Of those students, about 16,000 are named National Merit Semifinalists. These students are then invited to complete a detailed application, which includes essays, letters of recommendation, and a transcript. About 15,000 of the Semifinalists are then named National Merit Finalists. These students are eligible for a variety of scholarships, including the National Merit Scholarship, which is worth $2,500 per year for four years.

Benefits of Being a National Merit Finalist

There are many benefits to being a National Merit Finalist. In addition to being eligible for scholarships, Finalists are also recognized for their academic achievements. They are invited to participate in special events, such as the National Merit Scholarship Program Recognition Ceremony, and they are listed in the National Merit Scholarship Directory. Finalists are also given priority consideration for admission to many colleges and universities.

The Future of Scholarship: National Merit Finalists Lead the Way

National Merit Finalists are a group of exceptional students who are well-prepared for success in college and beyond. They are leaders in their schools and communities, and they are committed to making a difference in the world. The National Merit Scholarship Program is a valuable investment in these students, and it is helping to ensure that they will have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Recognizing Exceptional Students

The National Merit Scholarship Program has been recognizing exceptional students for over 60 years. The program has a long history of identifying and supporting students who have the potential to become leaders in their fields. National Merit Finalists are a testament to the power of education, and they are an inspiration to all students who are striving to achieve their dreams.

Investing in the Future

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an investment in the future of our country. The program helps to ensure that our brightest students have the opportunity to succeed in college and beyond. National Merit Finalists are the leaders of tomorrow, and they will play a vital role in shaping the world.

Building a Stronger Nation

The National Merit Scholarship Program is helping to build a stronger nation. By investing in our students, we are investing in our future. National Merit Finalists are the future leaders of our country, and they will make a positive impact on the world.

Recognizing Exceptional Students: The 2025 National Merit Finalists Poised for Success

Academic Excellence and Promise on Display

From a competitive pool of 1.5 million entrants, only 16,000 students have been named National Merit Finalists for 2025. These exceptional scholars have demonstrated remarkable academic talent and potential, making them worthy of this prestigious honor.

A Rigorous Selection Process

To earn the distinction of finalist, students must excel on a national qualifying test, achieve outstanding academic records, and receive strong recommendations from their school officials.

The Future of Innovation and Leadership

National Merit Finalists represent the future of innovation and leadership in various fields. They have the potential to make significant contributions to science, technology, engineering, and other disciplines that will shape our society.

Scholarships and Recognition

As a National Merit Finalist, students become eligible for a range of scholarships, including those from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, colleges, and corporations. This financial support allows them to pursue their higher education goals with greater ease.

A Legacy of Academic Achievement

The National Merit Scholarship Program has a long-standing tradition of supporting exceptional students. Since its inception in 1955, over 4 million students have been recognized for their academic achievements, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions to society.

Global Recognition

The National Merit Finalist honor is not only recognized in the United States but also globally. It serves as a testament to the students’ determination, perseverance, and the high quality of American education.

Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

The 2025 National Merit Finalists come from diverse backgrounds, representing a broad spectrum of socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic groups. The program is committed to ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed.

A Source of Inspiration

The National Merit Finalists serve as an inspiration to younger students, demonstrating the power of hard work, dedication, and academic excellence. Their achievements motivate others to strive for their full potential.

Historical and Statistical Context

The table below provides historical data on the number of National Merit Finalists since 2000, along with the percentage of finalists who went on to win National Merit Scholarships.

Year	Number of Finalists	Percentage of Finalists Awarded Scholarships
2000	14,815	20%
2010	16,200	22%
2020	15,000	23%
2023	16,000	25%

National Merit Finalists 2025: A Remarkable Achievement

This year, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of over 16,000 high school students who have been selected as National Merit Finalists for 2025. These exceptional students represent the top 1% of high school juniors in the nation based on their outstanding academic records, extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and standardized test scores.

To reach the status of National Merit Finalist, students must first take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) during their junior year of high school. Those who score among the highest receive a Letter of Commendation, indicating that they have met the initial screening criteria. Finalists are then selected from the pool of Commended Students based on their academic performance, extracurricular activities, and leadership qualities.

Becoming a National Merit Finalist is an extraordinary honor that recognizes these students’ exceptional academic achievement. Finalists are eligible for various college scholarships, including the prestigious National Merit $2,500 Scholarship, Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships, and College-Sponsored Scholarships. They also receive a Certificate of Merit to commemorate their accomplishment.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is a highly competitive and rigorous one, and students who reach the level of Finalist have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence. These young leaders will undoubtedly continue to make significant contributions to their communities and society as a whole.