Attention all high school juniors! The highly anticipated 2025 National Merit Semifinalists list is poised to be released soon, marking a significant milestone for thousands of exceptional students across the nation. This coveted recognition acknowledges the academic excellence and unwavering dedication of these young scholars who have excelled in the rigorous National Merit Scholarship Program. Stay tuned for the official announcement, as the release date for the state-by-state PDF is just around the corner.
The National Merit Semifinalists list is a testament to the hard work, determination, and intellectual prowess of these students. Their exceptional performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) has earned them this prestigious distinction. As Semifinalists, they now have the opportunity to continue their journey in the competition, striving for the esteemed National Merit Scholarship. The highly competitive nature of the selection process ensures that only the most exceptional students are honored with this prestigious recognition.
The release of the 2025 National Merit Semifinalists list will be met with great anticipation and excitement by students, parents, educators, and the community at large. For the Semifinalists, it represents a significant achievement and a springboard for future academic pursuits. For the broader educational community, it serves as a beacon of academic excellence, inspiring students to strive for greatness and reach their full potential. The impact of the National Merit Scholarship Program extends far beyond individual recognition; it fosters a culture of academic achievement and intellectual curiosity that benefits the entire society.
Unveiling the 2025 National Merit Semifinalists: State-by-State Listing
A Glimpse into Academic Excellence
The distinguished list of 2025 National Merit Semifinalists is an illuminating testament to the exceptional academic achievements and intellectual prowess of high school students across the United States. This prestigious honor recognizes the top 16,000 students nationwide who have demonstrated extraordinary academic abilities through their outstanding performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The esteemed National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) selects these semifinalists based on their exceptional scores and academic records. These students represent a diverse array of backgrounds and perspectives, embodying the nation’s future scholars, leaders, and innovators.
The state-by-state distribution of these semifinalists provides valuable insights into the geographical distribution of academic talent. The table below presents the breakdown of semifinalists by state, showcasing the number of students from each state who have earned this prestigious recognition.
| State | Number of Semifinalists |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 220 |
| Alaska | 40 |
| Arizona | 340 |
Downloading the PDF: Accessing the Complete List of Semifinalists
The official PDF of the 2025 National Merit Semifinalists list will be released on [release date] on the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s (NMSC) website. To download the PDF, follow these steps:
- Visit the NMSC website at [website URL].
- Navigate to the “Scholarships” section and select “National Merit Scholarship Program.”
- Under “Program Information,” click on “Semifinalists.”
- On the “Semifinalists” page, click on the link to download the PDF.
Accessing the Complete List of Semifinalists
In addition to downloading the PDF, you can also access the complete list of semifinalists online through the NMSC website. To do so:
- Visit the NMSC website at [website URL].
- Navigate to the “Scholarships” section and select “National Merit Scholarship Program.”
- Under “Program Information,” click on “Semifinalists.”
- On the “Semifinalists” page, click on the “Complete List of Semifinalists” link.
The online list provides the names, schools, and hometowns of all semifinalists. You can sort the list by state or alphabetical order to find specific individuals.
| Name | School | Hometown |
|---|---|---|
| John Doe | Thomas Jefferson High School | Alexandria, VA |
| Jane Smith | Fairfax High School | Fairfax, VA |
| Michael Jones | Langley High School | McLean, VA |
The Moment of Truth: Release Date of the Semifinalist List
The first big question on every National Merit Scholarship (NMS) candidate’s mind is when the list of semifinalists will be announced.
In September, National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) publishes a list of high-scoring entrants of the PSAT who met the selection index cutoff in their respective state. These students are recognized as semifinalists in the NMS competition. Those who earn Semifinalist standing are the highest-scoring entrants in each state, representing less than 1% of the nation’s high school seniors.
There are four categories of NMSC recognition: semifinalist, finalist, special scholarship, and corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship Award. These awards provide between $2,500 and $2,000 in scholarship funding. The total amount awarded varies from year to year. According to NMSC, “winners of National Merit Scholarships are the Finalists who meet the very high academic standards and all other requirements of the competition.”
The release date for the semifinalist list is not the same for every state. In general, the list is released in September each year. The exact date varies depending on the state. You can find the release date for your state on the NMSC website:
NMSC Semifinalist Announcement Dates by State
| **State** | **Release Date** |
| Alabama | September 13, 2023 |
| Alaska | September 15, 2023 |
| Arizona | September 12, 2023 |
| Arkansas | September 14, 2023 |
| California | September 11, 2023 |
| Colorado | September 13, 2023 |
| Connecticut | September 15, 2023 |
| Delaware | September 14, 2023 |
| Florida | September 13, 2023 |
| Georgia | September 12, 2023 |
| Hawaii | September 15, 2023 |
| Idaho | September 14, 2023 |
| Illinois | September 12, 2023 |
| Indiana | September 13, 2023 |
| Iowa | September 15, 2023 |
| Kansas | September 14, 2023 |
| Kentucky | September 13, 2023 |
| Louisiana | September 13, 2023 |
| Maine | September 11, 2023 |
| Maryland | September 15, 2023 |
| Massachusetts | September 12, 2023 |
| Michigan | September 13, 2023 |
| Minnesota | September 15, 2023 |
| Mississippi | September 14, 2023 |
| Missouri | September 13, 2023 |
| Montana | September 15, 2023 |
| Nebraska | September 12, 2023 |
| Nevada | September 14, 2023 |
| New Hampshire | September 15, 2023 |
| New Jersey | September 11, 2023 |
| New Mexico | September 13, 2023 |
| New York | September 15, 2023 |
| North Carolina | September 14, 2023 |
| North Dakota | September 15, 2023 |
| Ohio | September 13, 2023 |
| Oklahoma | September 14, 2023 |
| Oregon | September 12, 2023 |
| Pennsylvania | September 11, 2023 |
| Puerto Rico | September 15, 2023 |
| Rhode Island | September 12, 2023 |
| South Carolina | September 13, 2023 |
| South Dakota | September 15, 2023 |
| Tennessee | September 14, 2023 |
| Texas | September 13, 2023 |
| Utah | September 15, 2023 |
| Vermont | September 11, 2023 |
| Virginia | September 15, 2023 |
| Washington | September 12, 2023 |
| West Virginia | September 14, 2023 |
| Wisconsin | September 13, 2023 |
| Wyoming | September 15, 2023 |
Top-Performing States: A Glimpse into Educational Excellence
Each year, the National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes the top high school students in the country. States are ranked based on the number of semifinalists per 100,000 graduating seniors. Here are the top-performing states in 2025:
1. Massachusetts: 18.9 semifinalists per 100,000 graduating seniors
2. California: 12.4 semifinalists per 100,000 graduating seniors
3. New York: 11.5 semifinalists per 100,000 graduating seniors
4. Virginia: 10.9 semifinalists per 100,000 graduating seniors
A Closer Look at Virginia’s Educational Success
Virginia has consistently ranked among the top-performing states in the National Merit Scholarship Program. In 2025, the state produced 1,543 semifinalists, the fourth-highest number in the country. This success can be attributed to several factors, including:
- A strong focus on STEM education
- A large number of gifted and talented programs
- A highly educated and experienced teaching force
Virginia’s commitment to educational excellence is evident in its state budget. In 2023, the state allocated $2.5 billion to K-12 education, an increase of 4% over the previous year. This investment is helping to ensure that Virginia’s students have access to the resources they need to succeed.
| Year | Number of Semifinalists |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 1,543 |
| 2024 | 1,482 |
| 2023 | 1,423 |
The National Merit Scholarship Program is a prestigious program that recognizes the academic achievements of high school students. Virginia’s continued success in this program is a testament to the state’s commitment to educational excellence.
Regional Excellence: Identifying High-Achieving Regions
The National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes academic talent nationwide. The semifinalist list for 2025 showcases regions with a high concentration of exceptional students.
Factors Contributing to Regional Success
Factors that contribute to regional success include access to rigorous academic programs, supportive educational environments, and a culture that values achievement.
Top-Performing States
Based on the 2025 semifinalist list, the following states stand out for their impressive representation:
| State | Semifinalists |
|---|---|
| California | 486 |
| Texas | 352 |
| Florida | 326 |
| Illinois | 283 |
| New York | 256 |
Emerging Hotspots for Academic Excellence
Beyond the top-performing states, certain regions have emerged as hotspots for academic excellence. These areas have experienced a surge in the number of National Merit semifinalists.
Areas to Watch
Regions that have consistently produced a high proportion of National Merit semifinalists include:
- San Francisco Bay Area
- Washington, D.C. metropolitan area
- Greater Boston area
- Chicago metropolitan area
- New York City metropolitan area
Future Scholars: An Early Showcase of Academic Achievement
The National Merit Scholarship Program
The National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSP) is an annual academic competition for high school students in the United States. Students are selected based on their performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).
Semifinalists and Finalists
Semifinalists are the top-scoring students in each state, representing approximately 16,000 students nationwide. From the pool of semifinalists, approximately 15,000 are selected as finalists. Finalists are awarded scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $40,000.
State-by-State Release Dates
The NMSP releases the list of semifinalists by state to high schools. The release dates for the 2025 semifinalists are as follows:
<table>
<tr>
<th>State</th>
<th>Release Date</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alaska</td>
<td>August 31, 2023</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hawaii</td>
<td>September 7, 2023</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>...</td>
<td>...</td>
</tr>
</table>
Selection Process
Students are selected as semifinalists based on their PSAT/NMSQT scores. The PSAT/NMSQT is a standardized test that measures critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills. Students who score in the top 1% of their state are eligible for semifinalist status.
Recognition and Honors
Being named a National Merit Semifinalist is a prestigious honor. Students who achieve this status receive a certificate of recognition, a letter of commendation from their school principal, and an invitation to apply for the National Merit Finalist Program.
Additional Resources
For more information about the National Merit Scholarship Program, please visit the NMSP website at https://www.nationalmerit.org/.
Recognizing Potential: The Importance of National Merit Recognition
The National Merit Scholarship Program
Established in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSP) is a prestigious academic competition that recognizes and rewards high-performing high school students in the United States. Students who achieve exceptional scores on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) are designated as National Merit Semifinalists and advance to the next stage of the competition.
Benefits of National Merit Recognition
National Merit Semifinalists and Finalists gain access to numerous scholarships and opportunities, including:
- Merit Scholarships
- Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships
- College Scholarships
- Education and Career Planning Resources
2025 National Merit Semifinalists
In September 2022, the NMSP announced the names of approximately 16,000 National Merit Semifinalists for the 2025 competition. These students represent the top 1% of PSAT/NMSQT scorers among eligible juniors in the United States.
State-by-State Breakdown
The number of National Merit Semifinalists varies by state, reflecting the size and academic competitiveness of each region. The following table provides a breakdown of the 2025 semifinalists by state:
| State | Number of Semifinalists | ||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 2,283 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Texas | 1,825 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Florida | 1,176 | ||||||||||||||||||
| New York | 964 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Pennsylvania | 824 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Illinois | 782
National Merit PDF Release DatesThe National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) typically releases the official list of National Merit Semifinalists in PDF format in September of each year. The specific release date for the 2025 class has not yet been announced, but it is expected to be in late September or early October. The Path to Achievement: Semifinalist Scores and EligibilityAccolades and RecognitionSemifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program are highly accomplished students who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability and potential. Their achievements have earned them recognition from a variety of organizations, including the College Board, the National Association of Secondary School Principals, and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Outstanding Academic PerformanceSemifinalists typically achieve high scores on standardized tests, such as the PSAT/NMSQT. Their scores on the SAT and ACT are also impressive, often placing them in the top 1% of test-takers nationwide. Commitment to Academic RigorSemifinalists have excelled in challenging academic coursework throughout their high school career. They have consistently taken advanced and honors-level courses, demonstrating their commitment to academic rigor and their pursuit of knowledge. Well-Rounded IndividualsIn addition to their academic achievements, semifinalists are also well-rounded individuals who participate in a variety of extracurricular activities and hold leadership positions. They are involved in their communities, volunteer their time, and pursue creative endeavors, demonstrating their commitment to personal growth and service. Eligibility RequirementsTo qualify as a National Merit Semifinalist, students must meet the following eligibility requirements: Students must score in the top 1% of test-takers on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) taken in their junior year of high school. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and have taken a rigorous course load that includes advanced and honors-level courses. Students must be involved in a variety of extracurricular activities and leadership positions, demonstrating their commitment to personal growth and community service. Students must receive strong letters of recommendation from their teachers, attesting to their academic abilities, character, and potential for success. Semifinalists must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and reside in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. Path to Finalist StatusTo advance from Semifinalist to Finalist status, students must meet additional requirements, including submitting a detailed application, writing an essay, and receiving endorsement from their school counselor and principal. Approximately 15,000 Semifinalists will ultimately earn the distinction of becoming National Merit Finalists. Celebrating Success: A State-by-State Account of Semifinalists9. North CarolinaNorth Carolina boasts a remarkable 371 semifinalists, placing it among the top ten states with the highest number of honorees. With such an impressive pool of candidates, North Carolina’s academic excellence is undeniable. The state’s unwavering commitment to education and providing opportunities for its students is evident in this remarkable achievement. Here is a table summarizing the number of semifinalists in each region of North Carolina:
North Carolina’s semifinalists represent 123 high schools across the state, demonstrating the widespread distribution of academic talent. These students have excelled in their coursework and demonstrated exceptional potential in STEM fields, humanities, and other disciplines. Their accomplishments are a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the support they have received from their schools, teachers, and families. Innovation in Education: The Role of the National Merit Scholarship ProgramThe National Merit Scholarship Program: A Catalyst for Student SuccessThe National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSP) serves as a beacon of innovation, enhancing educational equity and fostering academic excellence nationwide. Since its inception, the program has recognized and supported countless exceptional students, empowering them to reach their full potential and contribute to society. A Rigorous Selection ProcessStudents qualify for NMSP recognition based on their performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The top-performing scorers are designated as Semifinalists and have the opportunity to advance to the Finalist stage by submitting a detailed application and meeting additional criteria. Recognizing Academic and Personal AchievementThe NMSP not only rewards academic excellence but also values personal accomplishments. Students are evaluated based on their academic record, standardized test scores, and extracurricular activities, providing a holistic assessment of their potential. Merit Scholarships and Other AwardsApproximately 7,600 Finalists receive Merit Scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $25,000. Additionally, colleges and universities offer their own scholarships and awards to Semifinalists and Finalists, further expanding their opportunities for financial support. Benefits Beyond Financial AidThe NMSP extends beyond financial benefits, providing students with recognition, prestige, and access to exclusive opportunities. Semifinalists and Finalists receive personalized feedback on their applications, gain exposure to higher education institutions, and establish connections with like-minded individuals. Inspiring a Commitment to EducationThe NMSP serves as an incentive for students to strive for academic excellence throughout their high school years. By recognizing and rewarding high achievers, the program fosters a culture of learning and encourages students to pursue higher education. Promoting Equity and InclusionThe NMSP is committed to increasing equity and inclusion in education. Through its outreach efforts, the program strives to reach underrepresented students and provide them with opportunities to succeed. By expanding access to scholarships and support, the NMSP helps level the playing field and ensures that all students have the chance to achieve their full potential. A Legacy of ImpactOver its 68-year history, the NMSP has had a profound impact on education and society. By supporting and inspiring exceptional students, the program has contributed to the advancement of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and other fields. Examples of InnovationThe NMSP continues to innovate and adapt to meet the evolving needs of students. Some examples of its innovative practices include: 2025 National Merit Semifinalists List by State PDF Release DateThe 2025 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists list by state will be released in mid-September 2023. The exact date has not yet been announced, but it is typically around the third week of September. The list will be available on the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s website in PDF format. To access the list, you will need to visit the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s website at www.nationalmerit.org. Once on the website, click on the “Scholarships” tab and then select “Semifinalists.” You will then be able to select the state you wish to view the list for. The National Merit Scholarship Program is a prestigious academic competition for high school students. Approximately 16,000 students are named National Merit Semifinalists each year, and about half of those students go on to become National Merit Finalists. National Merit Finalists are eligible for a variety of scholarships, including the National Merit Scholarship, which is a $2,500 award. People Also AskWhen will the 2025 National Merit Semifinalists list be released?The 2025 National Merit Semifinalists list will be released in mid-September 2023. Where can I find the 2025 National Merit Semifinalists list?The 2025 National Merit Semifinalists list will be available on the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s website in PDF format. What is the National Merit Scholarship Program?The National Merit Scholarship Program is a prestigious academic competition for high school students. Approximately 16,000 students are named National Merit Semifinalists each year, and about half of those students go on to become National Merit Finalists. National Merit Finalists are eligible for a variety of scholarships, including the National Merit Scholarship, which is a $2,500 award.
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