USC National Merit Scholarship: $1 Million in Scholarships for High-Achieving Students

Introduction

The USC National Merit Scholarship Program is a prestigious merit-based scholarship program awarded to top students who have excelled in academics and standardized testing. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the scholarship, including eligibility requirements, application process, award amounts, and benefits.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the USC National Merit Scholarship, students must:

• Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or international student with a valid visa
• Be enrolled in or have graduated from an accredited high school in the United States
• Have taken the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT) and scored in the top 1% of all participants
• Be admitted to USC as a full-time, first-year undergraduate student

Application Process

Students who meet the eligibility requirements must submit the following materials to the USC Office of Admissions:

• Application for admission to USC
• Official high school transcript
• Official PSAT score report
• National Merit Scholarship Enrollment Form

The deadline for submitting all application materials is December 1.

Award Amounts

USC awards two types of National Merit Scholarships:

• National Merit Finalist Scholarship: $15,000 per year for up to four years
• National Merit Semifinalist Scholarship: $5,000 per year for up to four years

Benefits

In addition to the financial award, recipients of the USC National Merit Scholarship receive the following benefits:

• Guaranteed admission to USC's Honors College
• Access to exclusive scholarship opportunities and programs
• Mentorship from faculty and staff members
• Priority registration for classes
• Housing in University Village, USC's residential community for scholarship recipients

How to Increase Your Chances of Winning

• Take the PSAT early: Register for the PSAT in October of your sophomore year to increase your chances of scoring in the top 1%.
• Study for the PSAT: Use official PSAT study materials and take practice tests to improve your scores.
• Get involved in extracurricular activities: Demonstrate your leadership, service, and commitment to your community through extracurricular activities.
• Maintain a strong GPA: Take challenging courses and earn high grades to demonstrate your academic excellence.
• Write a strong scholarship essay: The scholarship essay is your opportunity to showcase your unique qualities and why you deserve the scholarship.

Step-by-Step Approach to Applying

1. Take the PSAT: Register for the PSAT in October of your sophomore year.
2. Submit your application to USC: Apply to USC by the December 1 deadline.
3. Submit the National Merit Scholarship Enrollment Form: Download the form from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation website and submit it to the USC Office of Admissions.
4. Wait for notification: USC will notify National Merit Scholarship recipients in the spring of their senior year.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a National Merit Finalist and a National Merit Semifinalist?

National Merit Finalists have scored higher on the PSAT and have met additional academic and extracurricular requirements. National Merit Semifinalists have scored in the top 1% but have not yet met all the requirements for Finalist status.

2. How many students receive USC National Merit Scholarships each year?

USC awards approximately 100 National Merit Scholarships each year.

3. What is the average GPA of USC National Merit Scholars?

The average GPA of USC National Merit Scholars is 4.0 unweighted.

4. What is the acceptance rate for USC National Merit Scholars?

The acceptance rate for USC National Merit Scholars is significantly higher than the overall acceptance rate for the university.

5. Do USC National Merit Scholars receive any other scholarships?

Yes, USC National Merit Scholars may qualify for additional scholarships and financial aid from the university.

6. What are some effective strategies for winning a USC National Merit Scholarship?

• Take the PSAT early and study diligently.
• Maintain a strong GPA and take challenging courses.
• Get involved in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your leadership and commitment to your community.
• Write a strong scholarship essay that showcases your unique qualities.