The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), in conjunction with the UO, awards merit scholarships to selected academically talented high school seniors for undergraduate studies at the University of Oregon.

Award Information

Prospective first-year students named College-Sponsored Finalists and who list the University of Oregon as their "first choice" on the NMSC Scholarship Application are eligible for an $8,000 National Merit Scholarship. The award provides $2,000 per year, renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study.

Eligibility Requirements

High school juniors from U.S. schools who take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) are eligible for the Merit Scholarship Competition.

How to Apply

• Semifinalists selected by NMSC must complete a detailed scholarship application, with instructions sent directly to them through their high schools.
• Apply for admission to the University of Oregon by January 15.

Selection Criteria

Semifinalists compete to become Finalists by completing the NMSC scholarship application, demonstrating strong academic performance, and meeting all other requirements outlined by NMSC.

Scholarship Renewal

Maintain a 3.25 UO GPA in order to remain eligible for up to four years of undergraduate study.

Award Notification

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation begins notifying finalists of their awards in early April.