http://www.fldoe.org/news/2013/2013_09_12.asp
Tallahassee, Fla., Sept. 12, 2013 – Hundreds of high school students throughout Florida joined approximately 16,000 students nationwide as semifinalists for the 2014 National Merit Scholarship Program. National Merit Scholarship Corporation officials recognize high school seniors with the highest scores on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test who meet published program participation requirements. Semifinalists are now eligible to compete for one of 8,000 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $35 million.
«It’s great to see so many Florida scholars recognized for their hard work,» said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. «These students have gone above and beyond in the classroom and have proven they are both college and career ready.»
To be considered for a Merit Scholarship Award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to become a finalist. The semifinalist and his or her school must submit a detailed scholarship application that includes the student’s academic record throughout high school, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, and honors and awards received. The student must also be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay and earn an SAT score that confirms the earlier performance on the qualifying test. Finalists are selected based on exceptional skills, accomplishments and potential for success in rigorous college studies.
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation is a not-for-profit organization established in 1955 to conduct the National Merit Scholarship Program. The scholarships honor the nation’s scholastic champions and encourage the pursuit of academic excellence.
