The larger group will be referred to colleges . Participants Referred to Colleges Each year, up to 3,500 Achievement Program participants are brought to the attention of about 1,500 four-year U.S. colleges and universities. In late September, a roster of these students names, high schools, and tentative college major and career choices is sent to higher education officials to enhance the admission and financial aid opportunities of these academically promising students. At least 1,500 top performing participants in each year's Achievement Program are designated Semifinalists. To ensure that able Black American students throughout the nation will be included in the pool, Semifinalists are named on a regional representational basis.
Semifinalists are the highest-scoring program participants in each region.
To advance to Finalist standing in the competition, a Semifinalist must meet all published requirements and submit a completed, detailed Achievement Scholarship Application. Some sections of the application, which is sent to the school by NMSC, must be completed by school officials. In late January, more than 1,200 Semifinalists are notified that they qualify as Finalists. Scholars are chosen on the basis of their academic and extracurricular accomplishments, talents, and scholastic potential.