What is National Merit and Why Does it Matter?

TLDR: 

• National Merit Scholarships are based on PSAT/NMSQT results plus an application.
• Top 1% of PSAT scorers from each state are invited to apply for Finalist status.
• Many scholarships, commendations, and recognition opportunities are available along the way—even if students don’t become Finalists or Scholars.
• Preparing early for the PSAT/NMSQT is critical. Revolution Prep Academic Advisors help families navigate the process with clarity and confidence.

What is the National Merit Scholarship?

The National Merit Scholarship is one of the most prestigious honors a high school student can earn—opening doors to scholarships, recognition, and stronger college applications.

But how does it actually work?

The competition is run by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) each year for 11th graders. Winners are determined in part by performance on the PSAT/NMSQT (the “pre-SAT” your student takes in October of junior year).

Beyond the prestige, participation can unlock:

• Financial scholarships from NMSC, corporations, and colleges

• Application boosts through recognition at each achievement stage

• Long-term opportunities that follow students into the admissions process

How do students qualify for the National Merit Scholarship?

To qualify for the National Merit Scholarship, students must:

•  Be enrolled in a U.S. high school (or eligible international school)
• Take the PSAT/NMSQT in junior year (or equivalent abroad)
• Plan to attend a four-year college/university
• Earn a top Selection Index score in their state
• Submit a strong application including:
  • Principal’s recommendation
  • Academic transcript
  • Personal essay
  • Activities résumé

Even Commended status (not just winning) strengthens a student’s college application.

What PSAT score qualifies for the National Merit Scholarship?

Here’s where it gets tricky: there’s no fixed cutoff score.

Qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship is not It’s not as easy as achieving a specific score, as the qualifying scores change each year.

The NMSC calculates a Selection Index (range: 48–228) based on a student’s PSAT score (range: 320–1520). Then, scores are compared against all other students in the same state.

Achievement Levels:

• Commended Students (~210+ SI): About two-thirds of high scorers earn this recognition. Eligible for Special Scholarships.

• Semifinalists (Top 1% in state): Notified in September of senior year. Only Semifinalists can apply to become Finalists. Colleges are also notified, often unlocking automatic merit aid.

• Finalists: About 95% of Semifinalists advance to Finalist status. Fully eligible for National Merit Scholarships.

• National Merit Scholars: About half of Finalists ultimately win scholarships. Awards are announced May of senior year—18 months after the PSAT.

What’s next?

The college and scholarship process is complicated, but you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Revolution Prep’s Academic Advisors and Test Experts:

• Help families choose the right practice tests

• Decode PSAT/NMSQT score reports

• Create a roadmap for National Merit success and beyond

Schedule your free consultation today to give your child the best chance at success in October.