Differences between National Merit Commended Scholar, Semifinalist, and Finalist?

Hi everyone! I'm a little bit confused about the levels in the National Merit program. Can someone explain the differences between being a Commended Scholar, Semifinalist, and Finalist? How do these distinctions impact college applications and scholarship opportunities?

Hello! I'd be happy to clarify the differences between a National Merit Commended Scholar, Semifinalist, and Finalist.

1. Commended Scholar: Students who earn this designation have placed in the top 50,000 scorers on the PSAT (out of about 1.5 million test-takers). This recognition doesn't come with any monetary awards; however, it can still strengthen a student's application and show colleges a high level of academic achievement.

2. Semifinalist: Semifinalists are part of the top 16,000 scorers on the PSAT. To become a Semifinalist, a student must meet region-specific score cutoffs. Although Semifinalists don't automatically qualify for scholarships, being named a Semifinalist can open doors to additional scholarship opportunities from colleges and other sources.

3. Finalist: To become a Finalist, Semifinalists must submit an application that includes a strong academic record, an essay, a recommendation, and a high SAT score to confirm their PSAT performance. From the 16,000 Semifinalists, about 15,000 become Finalists. Finalists can compete for National Merit Scholarships worth $2,500 and may also be eligible for corporate-sponsored and college-sponsored scholarships.

While all three distinctions may positively affect a college application by showcasing a student's strong test-taking abilities, the benefits increase as one moves up through the levels. The main difference is Semifinalists and Finalists may be offered additional scholarships or have access to special programs at certain colleges. For some universities, being a Semifinalist or Finalist may also improve your chances of admission, as these schools often seek high-achieving students who have earned such distinctions.

Remember, though, that being a National Merit Commended Scholar, Semifinalist, or Finalist is just one aspect of a college application. A well-rounded application should also include strong grades, extracurricular achievements, and well-written essays, in addition to these distinctions. Good luck with your college journey!