The National Merit Scholarship Program is a multi-stage competition that spans nearly two years, from taking the PSAT/NMSQT to the final scholarship announcements. Understanding the key deadlines and milestones can help students stay on track and maximize their chances of becoming a National Merit Scholar.
This guide provides a detailed timeline of the process, from taking the PSAT to receiving National Merit Scholarships.
Year 1: Junior Year (PSAT and Semifinalist Qualification)
October: Take the PSAT/NMSQT
- The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is administered nationwide in mid-October.
- This is the only way to enter the National Merit Scholarship competition (unless you qualify through alternate entry).
- Your Selection Index Score (based on your PSAT score) determines your eligibility for National Merit recognition.
Tip: To be competitive, aim for a Selection Index score above your state’s cutoff. Scores vary, but a 220+ is generally strong in most states.
Year 2: Senior Year (Recognition and Scholarships)
September: Semifinalists Announced
- Around 16,000 students qualify as National Merit Semifinalists, placing in the top 1% of test-takers in their state.
- Cutoff scores are determined by state and fluctuate each year.
- Semifinalists receive a certificate and must submit an application to advance to Finalist status.
What to Do Now:
- If you’re a Semifinalist, start working on your Finalist application (due in October).
- Make sure your academic record, extracurriculars, and leadership activities are strong.
October: Finalist Application Deadline
- Semifinalists must submit an application that includes:
✅ High school transcript (showing continued academic excellence).
✅ SAT or ACT scores (confirming PSAT performance).
✅ A personal essay.
✅ A recommendation letter from a school official.
Tip: Treat this like a college application—strong essays and recommendations matter!
February: Finalists Announced
- Around 15,000 Semifinalists advance to Finalist status.
- Every Finalist is eligible for National Merit Scholarships (but not guaranteed one).
Next Steps:
- If you’re a Finalist, update your college preferences in your National Merit account.
- Some universities offer full-tuition or full-ride scholarships to National Merit Finalists—research these opportunities!
March–June: National Merit Scholarships Awarded
- Around 7,500 Finalists receive one of three types of National Merit Scholarships:
- National Merit $2,500 Scholarships – Awarded by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).
- Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships – Given by businesses to employees’ children or students in certain career fields.
- College-Sponsored Scholarships – Universities offer scholarships to National Merit Finalists who select their school as their first choice.
Key Deadline: You must update your first-choice college selection by May 31 to qualify for school-sponsored scholarships.
July: Scholarship Winners Officially Recognized
- The NMSC announces all scholarship recipients publicly.
- Winners receive award notifications, and schools are informed of scholarship recipients.
Congratulations! If you’ve made it this far, you’re officially a National Merit Scholar!
National Merit Scholarship Timeline Overview
| Month | Milestone | Action Needed |
| October (Junior Year) | Take the PSAT/NMSQT | Study ahead of time, aim for a high score |
| December | PSAT scores released | Check your Selection Index Score |
| September (Senior Year) | Semifinalists announced | Semifinalists begin Finalist applications |
| October | Finalist application deadline | Submit transcript, essay, SAT/ACT scores |
| February | Finalists announced | Ensure you’ve designated a first-choice college |
| March–June | Scholarships awarded | Keep track of NMSC and college-sponsored scholarships |
| July | Public recognition of Scholars | Celebrate your achievement! |
Final Thoughts
The National Merit Scholarship Program follows a strict timeline, and staying ahead of deadlines is crucial to securing scholarships. By planning ahead, submitting strong applications, and researching college-sponsored opportunities, you can make the most of this prestigious academic competition.