In a celebration of academic excellence, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) has announced this year's cohort of National Merit Semifinalists. These students represent the cream of the crop in the world of scholarly achievement.
Congratulations to our EIGHT honorees from Bixby High School:
Maxwell Dill
Hussein Elsaie
James Judd
Macy Mose
Aristotle Orisini
Barbara Oviedo Rojas
Brady Sloat
Nathaniel Willcox
What Does it Mean to be a National Merit Semifinalist?
To be named a National Merit Semifinalist is a significant accolade for high school students across the United States. It is the first step in a rigorous and competitive scholarship program that can lead to substantial financial rewards for college. Approximately 16,000 students from across the nation are selected as semifinalists each year, marking them as among the top one percent of high school seniors in the country.
How Do Students Qualify?
Students qualify for this prestigious recognition through their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) taken during their junior year of high school. The PSAT/NMSQT serves as the initial screening test, and students must achieve exceptional scores to be considered. Typically, those who attain a Selection Index score in the top percentile of test-takers in their state are named as semifinalists.
The Competitive Road Ahead
Being named a semifinalist is only the beginning of the journey for these talented students. Next, they will need to submit a detailed application, which includes their academic record, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and a compelling essay. Additionally, they must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school and secure a recommendation from their school principal.
From the pool of semifinalists, approximately 15,000 will advance to the finalist level. Finalists have the opportunity to compete for National Merit Scholarships, which can be used to fund their higher education. These scholarships are sponsored by colleges, universities, corporations, and the NMSC itself, and they reward students for their exceptional achievements.
An Honorable Achievement
Becoming a National Merit Semifinalist is a testament to a student's dedication to academics and their commitment to excellence. It opens doors to valuable scholarship opportunities and recognition in the world of education.
The announcement of National Merit Semifinalists is a proud moment for schools, families, and communities across the nation as we celebrate the achievements of these exceptional students and look forward to the possibilities that lie ahead in their academic journeys.
Learn Well. Live with Honor. Go Spartans!