Established in 1955, National Merit scholarship Corporation (NMSC) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance. NMSC is exempt from taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and contributions to NMSC are tax deductible by the donor. NMSC conducts the National Merit®Scholarship Program and the National Achievement® Scholarship Program–annual competitions for recognition and college undergraduate scholarships.

NMSC’s goals have remained constant since its inception:

  • to identify and honor academically talented U.S. high school students;
  • to stimulate increased support for their education; and
  • to provide efficient and effective scholarship program management for organizations that wish to sponsor college undergraduate scholarships.

Through these endeavors, NMSC, which is committed to maintaining the highest standards, has earned a reputation for quality and integrity.

Since its founding, NMSC has recognized 3 million students and provided over 335,000 scholarships worth more than $1.3 billion. The honors awarded by NMSC to exceptionally able students are viewed as definitive marks of excellence. Recipients of Merit Scholarship® awards, Achievement Scholarship® awards, and corporate-sponsored Special Scholarships have increased the nation’s respect for intellectual accomplishments and have contributed significantly to its talent pool of future leaders.

Contact National Merit Scholarship Corporation

National Merit Scholarship Corporation

1560 Sherman Avenue
Suite 200
Evanston, Illinois 60201-4897
Main Telephone: (847) 866-5100
Main Fax: (847) 866-5113

Contacts for current and prospective sponsors:

Frequently Asked Questions

The links below will take you to questions often asked about NMSC programs. If your question is not answered here or in our other Web pages, please contact us, and one of our staff members will be happy to assist you.

Forms for Semifinalists

Semifinalists in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship program

Semifinalists in the 2010 National Achievement Scholarship program

Other scholarships you may want to know