Merit Scholarships

Everett Public Schools celebrates students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement. One of the most prestigious academic recognition programs for high school students in the United States is the National Merit Scholarship Program. This page provides an overview of the process, important timelines, and how students may qualify.

National Merit Scholarship Program

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition that recognizes and honors high school students for outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). The program identifies students with strong academic potential and provides opportunities for scholarships, recognition, and national distinction.

Each year, approximately 1.5 million students enter the competition by taking the PSAT/NMSQT during their junior year. Students enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall of their junior year.

The PSAT/NMSQT serves as the qualifying test for National Merit recognition.
Students must take the exam during their 11th grade year.
Scores are used to determine eligibility for recognition in the National Merit program.

Everett Public Schools high schools provide opportunities for eligible students to take the PSAT/NMSQT each fall.

LEARN MORE National Merit Scholarship Program Flyer

CONTACT INFORMATION

College and Career Readiness

425-385-4075

Levels of Recognition

Students who perform at the highest levels on the PSAT/NMSQT may receive recognition at several stages.

Commended Students

Students who score among the top performers nationwide but do not qualify as semifinalists receive Letters of Commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

Semifinalists

Approximately 16,000 students nationwide are named National Merit Semifinalists. These students represent the highest scorers in each state.

Finalists

Semifinalists who complete additional application requirements and demonstrate strong academic performance may advance to become National Merit Finalists.

Requirements typically include:

A detailed scholarship application
Academic records and coursework
An essay
A recommendation from a school official
Confirmation of PSAT performance with a qualifying SAT or ACT score

National Merit Scholars

Finalists are considered for National Merit Scholarships, which may be awarded by:

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation
Colleges and universities
Corporate sponsors

Timeline

Although exact dates may vary slightly each year, the process typically follows this schedule:

October (Junior Year)
Students take the PSAT/NMSQT.

September (Senior Year)
High-scoring students are notified if they are National Merit Semifinalists or Commended Students.

Fall of Senior Year
Semifinalists submit scholarship applications.

February (Senior Year)
Finalists are announced.

Spring (Senior Year)
National Merit Scholarship winners are announced.