Has anybody been in the position to choose between AES and National Merit Scholarship? What did you end up choosing and how did it work out for you? DD19 has the test scores and grades to qualify for the highest AES award and she is also on track to become NMF, but at this point she wants to explore other options and not quite ready to commit to UTD. From what I understand, she is not guaranteed to get AES even if she qualifies? What about National Merit Scholarship? Is it pretty much guaranteed for autoadmits? Any input is greatly appreciated!
My son was offered the highest AES when he applied to UTD, when he becaome a finalist for NM he accepted that scholarship. I can think of no reason why someone would pick AES over NM at UTD. UTD guarantees their NM scholarship. Just go ahead and apply, it’s nice to have and early acceptance you don’t have to commit.
Thank you!
@3scoutsmom since UTD has removed the table with AES, I am just curious to know what the highest level of AES is. Please share if you can recall. Thanks!
I met with an admissions rep last week and they are being very cagey. There are now “officially” no levels any more. But if you look at the reports on Reddit it looks like they are using the same levels. My take on this is that they have more higher stats kids applying and want some wiggle room. I’m also sensing that they are looking at “riggor” over GPA and rank. I think we all know that in some schools it’s not that hard to make top 10% but in others you’d need 12+ APs and a near perfect GPA.
I believe the highest level is still full tuition for 8 semesters and $3K stipend a semester. It doesn’t look like National Merit has changed at all and that makes UTD a full ride +/- $100 depending on books and meal plan.
@3scoutsmom thanks. When things are “subjective” and not transparent, it is hard to compare 
Someone on Reddit recently posted this archive link about the AES level https://web.archive.org/web/20170705122358/http://aes.utdallas.edu:80/prospective-freshmen/awards