The 2026-27 National Merit Semifinalists!

Photo Credits: Vestavia Hills City Schools

Every year, over 1.3 million high school juniors compete for the National Merit Scholarship, with only 16,000 students nationwide qualifying as semifinalists. Of those 16,000 students, 234 qualified in Alabama, including 15 from Vestavia Hills High School. 

So how do you become a semifinalist in the first place? Well, it’s not easy. Students have to take the PSAT/NMSQT, a shorter, slightly easier version of the SAT. Although students in other grades may take the test, only junior-year scores will be used to compete for the National Merit Scholarship. 

To become a semifinalist, students must meet a qualifying score for their state. Each state has their own threshold score, meaning students must perform very well compared to other students in the same state.

I spoke with VHHS semifinalist Alan Sheng to tell us a little bit more about his experience. 

According to Alan, preparing for the PSAT comes down to “learning strategies” and is “not something you have to be talented at”. He also studied for other standardized tests, such as the ACT, which he said helped him indirectly prepare for the PSAT. 

For students preparing to take the PSAT, Alan’s experience shows that success isn’t necessarily about natural ability. It’s about getting familiar with the test, and developing effective strategies that can make all the difference. 

However, becoming a semifinalist is only the beginning of the process. Semifinalists must submit additional materials, including an ACT or SAT score, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation in order to advance as a finalist. 

With 15 students named semifinalists this year, the recognition demonstrates the hard work and dedication the students put into their academics. Their achievement not only reflects their performance on a single test, but also the preparation, persistence, and commitment that led them to this point. As they continue through the selection process, these students carry with them a distinction earned through years of academic dedication.