1560 Sherman Ave., Ste. 200
Evanston, IL 60201-4897
URL: http://www.nationalmerit.org

National Achievement Scholarship Program

(Four Year College, University/Scholarship)

Purpose: Competition of African-American students for recognition and undergraduate scholarships. Students enter by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholar Qualifying Test and by meeting other participation requirements. Most of the awards are one-time scholarships of $2,500; others are renewable for four years, and valued between $500 and $2,000 or more. Contact high school counselor by fall of junior year. Those qualifying for recognition are notified through their high school. Participation requirements are available in the PSAT/NMSQT Student Bulletin and on the NMSC Web site at http://www.nationalmerit.org. Qualif.: Applicant must be: full-time student. High school students considered. Award available to U.S. citizens. Award available to the following races: African American.

Funds Avail.: Minimum no. of awards: 800. Minimum award amount: $500. Maximum award amount: $2500. No. and Amount Awarded Last Calendar Year: 800 scholarship(s), totalling $3,000,000. To Apply: Required: application form; transcript; autobiography; test scores; essay; reference(s). Contact: Director of Public Information.

National Merit Scholarship Program

(Four Year College, University/Scholarship)

Purpose: High school students enter by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholar Qualifying Test, and by meeting other participation requirements. Those eligible are contacted through high school. Selection based on test scores, academic abilities, essay, activities, and recommendations. Some awards are renewable. Contact counselor by fall of junior year for deadline. Participation requirements are available in the PAST/NMSQT Student Bulletin and on NMSE's Web site at http://www.nationalmerit.org. Qualif.: Applicant must be: full-time student. High school students considered. Award available to U.S. citizens.

Funds Avail.: Minimum no. of awards: 9600. Minimum award amount: $500. Maximum award amount: $10000. No. and Amount Awarded Last Calendar Year: 9900 scholarship(s), totalling $46,000,000. To Apply: Required: application form; transcript; autobiography; test scores; essay; reference(s). Contact: Director of Public Information.