<p>On my applications, I accidentally wrote I was a National Merit Semifinalist when I am really only 'Commended.' It truly was an honest mistake- I confused the terminology. Do you think this is a big deal (i.e. I should contact the colleges and correct it) or I should just leave well enough alone and if they make any inquiries I can explain my mistake? How do they even know if you're a semifinalist anyway? Will they check and get mad about something so small? Thanks in advance.</p>
<p>This isn't trivial in that it suggests you are exagerating your credentials. It's not merely a typo or check off of a box. It also has implications for scholarships. I suggest you take measures to correct this "mistake"</p>
<p>Yes, especially for scholarship reasoning, you should correct this. I know it was an accident, but it's a larger mistake on your part than adding a few hours to your comm service total or something. I would email my admissions counselors and let them know to change it, or send a new version of your resume or whatever.</p>