<p>For national merit scholarship finalists, if they designate USC as their first choice, will the half tuition scholarship (called NATIONAL MERIT FINALIST PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARSHIPS) be automatic or does it require separate application and/or interview? Thanks!</p>
<p>NMF Presidential Scholarships are automatic (since USC receives info from NM re: 1st choice designees). Make sure to mention NMF status on application, too, because I’m sure it helps make candidate stand out.</p>
<p>I read somewhere that “if you are accepted” the half scholarship is automatic. Implied that they look closely at NMF to make sure that they want you at half scholarship before they accept you. Don’t know if that is true or not.</p>
<p>My understanding is you have to be accepted to USC and designate USC as FIRST CHOICE on the National Merit scholarship form. National Merit Finalist standing does not guarantee admission.</p>
<p>On Saturday I attended a USC Admissions/workshop/reception in Atlanta. This topic was discussed. The student has to be accepted, name SC as the first choice university (this can be done even in late April) and enroll. </p>
<p>Not mentioned in this thread is an extra $1,000 per year given by the NMS Foundation to the student for tuition assistance.</p>
<p>In addition, a student may apply for other merit scholarships, local scholarships and university financial aid. A student at SC may have the half tuition scholarship, an alumni scholarship and still qualify of financial aid. Each student’s financial situation is different.</p>