Frequently Asked Questions

Scholarships Awarded

1. What proportion of Finalists win a scholarship?
2. When and how are Finalists notified that they have won a scholarship?
3. What kinds of scholarships are awarded?
4. How can a student be considered for a Special Scholarship?
5. Where may scholarships be used?
6. Is there a list of scholarship sponsors?

What proportion of Finalists win a scholarship?

A little over half the Finalists receive a scholarship.

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When and how are Finalists notified that they have won a scholarship?

On a rolling basis, beginning in late February and ending in June, Scholars are notified at their home addresses. Their high school principals are also notified.

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What kinds of scholarships are awarded?

In the National Merit^® Scholarship Program, three types of Merit Scholarship^® awards are offered to Finalists, and Special Scholarships are awarded to other outstanding students who meet their sponsor's criteria. In the National Achievement^® Scholarship Program, two types of scholarships are offered.

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How can a student be considered for a Special Scholarship?

A Special Scholarship is a corporate-sponsored award. To be considered for a Special Scholarship, students must meet the sponsor's criteria and entry requirements of the National Merit^® Scholarship Program. They also must submit the sponsor's entry form. Additional information can be found under the National Merit^® Scholarship Program.

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Where may scholarships be used?

NMSC scholarship payments must be used exclusively for undergraduate education at a college or university in the United States that holds accredited status with a regional accrediting commission on higher education. NMSC Scholarships are not payable for attendance at service academies, virtual universities, or institutions that are limited in purpose or training.

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Is there a list of scholarship sponsors?

Scholarship sponsors are listed in the PSAT/NMSQT^® Official Student Guide, which is updated annually and sent to high schools each fall for distribution to students.

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Page last updated September, 2007

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