Request for National merit status (which is rejected)

S was national merit semifinalist, but did not make it to finalist because of grades. Just got request from Kenyon for NM status. Not questioning whether he should respond, just not sure what to make of this. Any insight, maybe from veteran parents or current students?

I don’t think Kenyon, placing so little emphasis on test scores, would care enough about your son’s National Merit Status to inquire about it for admissions. They do, however, offer National Merit Scholarships and are likely inquiring for the Scholarship Committee. I would take this as a good sign that your son got in. I would tell them as it might mean they have a chance at other scholarships now that he won’t receive a national merit one.