<p>Son got his last week. Based on what I know about the scores, he will end up as a commended student, not semi-finalist. With that in mind, what kind of schools should he give to NM corp (they ask for two)? </p>
<p>He sent his first SAT scores to 3 state U's + Georgia Tech. Are there any schools out there that might give substantial merit aid based on NM commended status + being identified to NM Corp?</p>
<p>Good question mom2three--I have the same one! Son will likely be commended and did much better on the SATs. It seems like he should send the NM two schools that are matches/high matches, rather than reaches...is this the right way to look at it?</p>
<p>I'm not really sure what benefit the notification has. My D was a semifinalist, and the two colleges which she notified eventually waitlisted her.</p>
<p>There are numerous threads on this topic in the SAT-ACT-TESTS-TEST PREPARATION forum that might be of help.</p>
<p>It isn't a big deal which colleges you send them to; it won't make a difference.</p>
<p>I don't think any school gives more merit money to someone who is commended who names them vs a kid who doesn't. Unfortunately I think this is an outdated part of the process. With my first (in '96) we agonized, and thought the college mail (all of which came to the actual physical mailbox) reflected his choices. NOt by the time the last one sent in her card. Colleges buy the info from College Board that reflects what they want to target.<br>
They only college we heard from (Baylor) way back in the 90's who offered merit money based on commended status doesn't any longer.<br>
Relax, enjoy your great kid, and perhaps encourage a little prep before SATs.</p>