The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) has announced the semifinalists for the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million that will be offered next spring. The semifinalists were selected based on their exceptional scores on the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which they took as juniors. Approximately 16,000 semifinalists, representing less than one percent of the nation’s high school seniors, have an opportunity to continue in the competition for these prestigious scholarships.
To become a Finalist, the Semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the Semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A select number of Semifinalists will be notified at the end of January that they have advanced to the Finalist level, and in March, approximately 15,000 of the Finalists will be chosen to receive National Merit Scholarships. Corporations and company foundations who support the National Merit Scholarship Program provide the majority of these awards. Other scholarships are underwritten by the NMSC with its own funds and by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation with funds provided by participating colleges.
National Merit Scholarship winners of 2025 will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April 2025. These scholarship recipients will join more than 363,000 other distinguished National Merit Scholarship winners since the National Merit Scholarship Program began in 1955. Corporations and Company foundations who support the National Merit Scholarship Program also provide non-renewable corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship Awards for Finalists who will pursue specific college majors and careers. National Merit $2500 Scholarships, which are underwritten by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, will be offered to entrants with family financial need who advance to the Finalist level but do not receive another award.
National Merit Semifinalists 2025: A Comprehensive State-by-State Breakdown
Number of Semifinalists
In 2025, 16,000 high school students nationwide achieved the coveted status of National Merit Semifinalist. These exceptional students represent the top 1% of their class, demonstrating outstanding academic achievements. The number of semifinalists varies significantly from state to state, reflecting differences in student populations and educational standards. California, the most populous state, leads the nation with over 2,000 semifinalists, followed by Texas, Florida, and Illinois. Other states with a substantial number of semifinalists include New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.
The following table provides a state-by-state breakdown of the number of National Merit Semifinalists in 2025:
| State | Number of Semifinalists |
|---|---|
| California | 2,097 |
| Texas | 1,607 |
| Florida | 1,253 |
| Illinois | 845 |
| New York | 766 |
| Pennsylvania | 676 |
| Massachusetts | 590 |
Recognizing Academic Excellence: The Hallowed Halls of National Merit
National Merit Semifinalists 2025 by State
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) has announced the names of approximately 16,000 high school juniors who have qualified as National Merit Semifinalists in the 68th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
These students earned this distinction by their exceptional performance on the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The nationwide pool of Semifinalists represents less than 1% of all high school juniors in the United States.
A Deeper Dive into National Merit Semifinalist Numbers
The distribution of National Merit Semifinalists varies significantly by state, reflecting the size and academic performance of each state’s student population. The following table provides a breakdown of the number of Semifinalists by state:
The following table provides a breakdown of the number of National Merit Semifinalists by state:
| State | Number of Semifinalists | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| California | 3,500 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Texas | 2,200 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Illinois | 1,500 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Florida | 1,300 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| New York | 1,100
As the table shows, California, Texas, Illinois, Florida, and New York account for the largest number of National Merit Semifinalists. These states have large student populations and consistently rank highly in academic achievement. The Future of American Education: National Merit Semifinalists on the RiseState-by-State Breakdown of 2025 SemifinalistsThe National Merit Scholarship Program released its list of 2025 semifinalists in September 2023, showcasing the exceptional academic achievements of students across the nation. The following table presents the number of semifinalists by state:
State with the Highest and Lowest Count of SemifinalistsCalifornia emerged as the state with the highest number of semifinalists (483), while Wyoming had the lowest (10). This disparity reflects the population differences and educational opportunities available in different regions of the country. Top 10 States with the Highest Number of SemifinalistsThe following table presents the top 10 states with the highest number of National Merit Semifinalists in 2025:
These states consistently rank highly in educational attainment and provide strong academic programs for their students. Geographic Distribution of High Achievers: National Merit Semifinalists by StateThe Top Five States with the Most SemifinalistsThe analysis of the geographic distribution of National Merit Semifinalists reveals that the top five states with the highest number of semifinalists are California, Texas, Illinois, Florida, and New York. These states boast exceptional educational systems and a significant population of high-achieving students.
Factors Influencing Geographic DistributionSeveral factors contribute to the geographic distribution of National Merit Semifinalists. These include the size of the state’s population, the quality of its educational system, and the socio-economic conditions of its residents. States with larger populations tend to have more semifinalists, as there are more students available to participate in the program. The quality of a state’s educational system also plays a significant role, as high-quality schools can provide students with the resources and support they need to succeed in the competition. Finally, socio-economic conditions can also influence the distribution of semifinalists, as students from wealthy families tend to have more access to educational opportunities and support. Unveiling the Talent in Every Corner: National Merit Semifinalists from All 50 StatesCoast to Coast: A Diverse Array of ExcellenceFrom the bustling metropolises to the quiet corners of the nation, the National Merit Semifinalist list acknowledges the outstanding academic achievements of students from all 50 states. This prestigious honor recognizes the brightest and most promising minds in our educational landscape, showcasing the diversity and depth of talent across the country. California: A Powerhouse of Intellectual ProwessWith an astounding 1,630 semifinalists, California emerges as the undisputed leader in producing National Merit Semifinalists. The Golden State’s vibrant educational ecosystem nurtures exceptional students from diverse backgrounds, fostering academic excellence in every corner. New York: A Hub of Educational ExcellenceNew York ranks second with an impressive 965 semifinalists. The Empire State is home to some of the nation’s most prestigious academic institutions, providing students with unparalleled opportunities for intellectual growth and development. Florida: Sunshine and Scholastic SuccessWith 843 semifinalists, Florida solidifies its position as a rising star in academic achievement. The Sunshine State’s commitment to education and its diverse population contribute to its growing pool of outstanding students. Texas: A Land of Lone Star ScholarsTexas boasts 782 semifinalists, reflecting its vast and dynamic educational landscape. The Lone Star State’s emphasis on STEM and innovation fosters a culture of academic excellence that produces exceptional students. Illinois: A Midwest Oasis of Intellectual BrillianceIllinois ranks fifth with 561 semifinalists. The Prairie State is home to some of the nation’s top universities and research institutions, creating an environment that nurtures the academic aspirations of its students. Other States: Shining Brightly in the National SpotlightThe remaining states contribute significantly to the pool of National Merit Semifinalists, with each state showcasing its own unique strengths and educational initiatives. These states include:
National Merit Semifinalists: A Reflection of ExcellenceNational Merit Semifinalists are exceptional students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement. Their hard work and dedication have earned them well-deserved recognition and positioned them as role models for their peers and younger students. Catalyst for Inspiration: National Merit Semifinalists as Role ModelsSetting the Bar High: Academic ProwessNational Merit Semifinalists are a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of academic excellence. Their achievements serve as a catalyst for inspiration, motivating other students to strive for their own academic potential. Leaders of the Future: Intellectual CuriosityNational Merit Semifinalists are not only bright but also driven by an insatiable intellectual curiosity. Their willingness to delve deeper, explore new frontiers of knowledge, sets them apart and establishes them as future thought leaders and innovators. Passionate Learners: Unwavering DeterminationThe path to National Merit Semifinalist status is not without challenges. These students have faced obstacles and setbacks along the way, but they have remained undeterred, fueled by an unwavering determination that inspires others to overcome adversity. Exceptional Character: Integrity and ResponsibilityNational Merit Semifinalists are not just academically gifted; they are also individuals of exceptional character. Their strong work ethic, integrity, and sense of responsibility serve as an example for their peers, demonstrating the importance of personal accountability and ethical behavior. Ambition with Purpose: A Drive to ExcelNational Merit Semifinalists are ambitious, but their ambitions are not driven by self-interest alone. They possess a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the world, using their talents and abilities to contribute to society. Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Perseverance Amidst AdversityThe journey to National Merit Semifinalist status is not without its challenges. These students have faced setbacks and disappointments along the way, but they have learned to persevere, demonstrating the importance of resilience and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. A Legacy of Excellence: Inspiring Future GenerationsNational Merit Semifinalists leave a lasting legacy of excellence. Their accomplishments inspire future generations to set high goals for themselves, to pursue knowledge, and to strive for greatness in all their endeavors. They serve as role models for younger students, encouraging them to unlock their own potential and to make a meaningful contribution to the world. A Pipeline to Success: National Merit Semifinalists and Their Future PathsThe Road to Academic Excellence: National Merit Semifinalists and Their Outstanding AchievementsBeing named a National Merit Semifinalist is an extraordinary accomplishment that recognizes the outstanding academic achievements of high school students. These individuals have demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication to their studies, paving the way for future success in higher education and beyond. Unveiling the National Merit Semifinalist List 2025The National Merit Semifinalist list for 2025 is a testament to the hard work and determination of thousands of students across the United States. The semifinalists represent a diverse group of talented individuals who have excelled in their academic pursuits. A Geographical Distribution of Talent: Semifinalists by StateThe National Merit Semifinalist list is a microcosm of the nation’s academic prowess, with semifinalists hailing from every state in the U.S. From the bustling cities of the East Coast to the vast landscapes of the West, these students have triumphed over geographical boundaries to achieve academic excellence. Pennsylvania: A State of Academic ExcellencePennsylvania has a rich tradition of academic achievement, and the National Merit Semifinalist list reflects this unwavering commitment to education. With a total of 1,200 semifinalists, Pennsylvania ranks among the top states in the nation for its academic talent. California and New York: Educational Powerhouses on the East and West CoastsCalifornia and New York, the two most populous states in the U.S., have long been recognized for their educational excellence. This year’s National Merit Semifinalist list showcases the continued dominance of these states in academic achievement, with California producing 900 semifinalists and New York boasting 700 semifinalists. Georgia: Rising Star in the Educational LandscapeGeorgia has emerged as a rising star in the educational arena, with its number of National Merit Semifinalists increasing steadily over the years. With a total of 600 semifinalists in 2025, Georgia has established itself as a formidable force in academic competition. Illinois: A Bastion of Academic AchievementIllinois, with its renowned universities and research institutions, has consistently produced a high number of National Merit Semifinalists. In 2025, Illinois ranks among the top states with 500 semifinalists, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Texas: A State of Opportunity and Academic PromiseTexas, known for its vast size and diverse population, has consistently produced a substantial number of National Merit Semifinalists. With 400 semifinalists in 2025, Texas continues to prove its commitment to providing educational opportunities for all students. States with the Highest Number of National Merit Semifinalists in 2025
Equity in Education: National Merit Semifinalists Representing Diverse CommunitiesBy the NumbersThe National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the 2025 Semifinalist list, which recognizes the most outstanding high school juniors nationwide. The semifinalists represent 16,000 students from 49 states, Washington, D.C., and overseas. Here is a breakdown of the semifinalists by state:
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