A National Merit Scholar is a student who has been recognized for their exceptional academic achievement on the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual competition that awards scholarships to high school students based on their performance on this test. Students who score in the top 1% are designated as National Merit Semifinalists, and those who advance to become Finalists are eligible for scholarship awards from various sources, including colleges, corporations, and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Being named a National Merit Scholar is a prestigious honor and can open up many opportunities for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals.