Are International Students Eligible for the National Merit Scholarship Program?

The National Merit Scholarship Program is a well-known merit-based scholarship in the United States, but there is a common misconception about its eligibility criteria, especially for international students. Many erroneously believe that international students can apply. However, the program is strictly designed for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. This article will clarify the eligibility requirements for the National Merit Scholarship and provide information on alternative scholarships available for international students.

Eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program

The National Merit Scholarship Program is not open to international students. The program is designed to recognize and reward exceptional academic performance among U.S. high school students who possess the potential for success in rigorous academic pursuits. The key eligibility criteria include:

Taking the PSAT/NMSQT during their junior year of high school Maintaining a high academic record Being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

Qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship requires not only participating in the PSAT but also meeting specific eligibility requirements set by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).

ALTERNATIVE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

While international students are not eligible for the National Merit Scholarship Program, there are numerous other opportunities available. Private institutions and schools in the United States often have their own merit, need-based, or means-tested scholarship programs. Here are a few well-known schools in Dubai that offer scholarships to international students:

GIIS Dubai: This school offers scholarships based on academic excellence as well as extracurricular achievements. Their website provides detailed information on available scholarships and the application process. Al Noor International Schools: Al Noor offers a variety of scholarships to international students, including those who excel academically and in extracurricular activities. The American School in Dubai (ASD): ASD provides scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or extracurricular achievements. Obtaining these scholarships often requires a specific application process.

Additionally, there are several online platforms and databases that host information on scholarships for international students. These resources include:

International Education Organization (IEO): This is a go-to resource for scholarships and educational opportunities for international students. The IEO website provides comprehensive information and guidance on how to apply for scholarships. Scholarship Search Engines: Websites like , Cognizant Scholarships, and Fastweb aggregate information from various sources and make it easier to find the right scholarship that suits individual needs and circumstances.

It's important for international students to conduct thorough research and secure as much information as possible to increase their chances of finding a suitable scholarship. By tapping into these resources, international students can find scholarships that cater to their unique circumstances and contribute significantly to their education without incurring heavy financial burdens.

Conclusion

Although international students are not eligible for the National Merit Scholarship Program, there are numerous alternative scholarship opportunities available. By exploring the specific programs of schools or utilizing online databases and platforms dedicated to international scholarships, international students can find financial support for their education.