$2,500-$80,000
National Merit Scholarship
Merit scholarships ($2,500 single-payment plus corporate/college-sponsored awards) based on PSAT/NMSQT performance.
Award
$2,500-$80,000
Deadline
Oct 15, 2026
Renewable
Yes
Recipients
7,500
Who's eligible
U.S. high school juniors who take the PSAT/NMSQT, U.S. citizens or permanent residents intending to become citizens, plan to enroll full-time in college after high school graduation.
What you'll need to apply
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Source linkAbout this scholarship
The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and college scholarships, entered by taking the PSAT/NMSQT in 11th grade. Approximately 7,500 finalists earn scholarships through three sources: $2,500 National Merit Scholarships (single payment), corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarships, and college-sponsored Merit Scholarships (4-year, varies by school).
Renewal terms: Varies by award type — college-sponsored awards typically renewable for 4 years.