The National Merit Scholarship Corporation is an annual competition oriented around recognizing and honoring academically achieving US students. Wylie students Elena Grant(12), Areebah Mehvish(12), Emma Kossum(12), and Takumi Yasueda(12) have qualified for National Merit Semi-Finals and will continue to compete.
Each year 1.3 million eligible students enter the competition ready to put their intelligence to the test. Participants are selected based on PSAT/NMSQT scores, an assessment that is composed of 3 segments. Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. Sophomores take the PSAT and Seniors take the NMSQT. Of the 1.3 million participants only 15,000 seniors with the highest test scores qualify each year.
“I think the key is being organized, having a schedule, and having your priorities in mind,” Mehvish said.
For semifinalists to move onto finals, they must submit a detailed application that contains proof of a consistently high academic record, an endorsement from a school official, and a high SAT or ACT score. Testers will be notified of their placement early February in the mail or through the ACT Website.
The NMSC is a significant opportunity for students going to college. The scholars will be considered for some 7,600 scholarships valuing up to $30 million. All of NMSC’s donations go towards scholarships.
https://www.act.org/content/act/en-texas.html