<p>OP, you definitely have options at some schools that award NMFs merit money. Check the [National</a> Merit Scholarships - College Confidential](<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/national-merit-scholarships/]National”>National Merit Scholarships - College Confidential Forums) forum right away. Start a new thread and ask what schools are possibilities. I believe that Alabama, Auburn and Arizona (State, I think–Barrett Honors College) would be on that list. You may yet get into one of the schools you’ve yet to hear from, but they may not offer you enough need-based aid.</p>
<p>If you take a gap year and then reapply, you won’t be able to take advantage of your NMF status. Don’t wait until you hear on April 1, look into this pronto. You can always decide later not to take one of the NMF options.</p>