National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC)

About National Merit Scholarship Corporation

Established in 1955, National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance. NMSC is exempt from taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and contributions to NMSC are tax deductible by the donor. NMSC conducts the National Merit^® Scholarship Program, an annual academic competition for recognition and college undergraduate scholarships. Additionally, from 1965 to 2015, NMSC conducted the National Achievement^® Scholarship Program, an academic competition for Black American high school students. (See the National Achievement Scholarship Program page for information about the program and its history.)

NMSC’s goals have remained constant since its inception:

• to identify and honor academically talented U.S. high school students
• to stimulate increased support for their education
• to provide efficient and effective program management for organizations who wish to sponsor college undergraduate scholarships

Through these endeavors, NMSC, which is committed to maintaining the highest standards, has earned a reputation for quality and integrity.

Since its founding, NMSC has recognized over 3 million students and provided more than 414,000 scholarships worth over $1.6 billion. The honors awarded by NMSC to exceptionally able students are viewed as definitive marks of excellence. Recipients of Merit Scholarship^® awards, Achievement Scholarship^® awards, and corporate-sponsored Special Scholarships have increased the nation’s respect for intellectual accomplishments and have contributed significantly to its talent pool of future leaders.

Contact National Merit Scholarship Corporation

National Merit Scholarship Corporation
1560 Sherman Avenue
Suite 200
Evanston IL 60201-4897
Phone: (847) 866-5100
Fax: (847) 866-5115

Contacts for current and prospective sponsors:

• Corporate Contact
• College Contact