roylikeswaffles

I was browsing the forums to see what sort of things I could do to help pay for USC's tuition if I did get accepted and I want to clarify whether getting NMSF + choosing USC as my first choice would guarantee me 1/2 tuition or if I would have to get NMF to get the scholarship. Thank you!

Nester

You do have to progress to NSF for the scholarship, but if you are a NMSF with decent grades, take the SAT's, don't knock over a liquor store, and fill out the NSF form on time, you should be fine.

roylikeswaffles

Being considered for NMF isn't automatic if you are a NMSF? I would have to fill out a form?

Thanks btw

Puzzled88

It's a pretty simple process. You fill out a form, write a short essay, order the College Board to send your SAT score, and get your transcript and a recommendation sent from your high school. Most of the people who do not advance to NMF just don't get around to doing that. In the case of USC, it would be worth half tuition so I'd strongly recommend filling out the form.

roylikeswaffles

So, to get half tuition I need to be a NMSF, fill out a form for NMF, and pray that I become a NMF + get accepted to USC?

Puzzled88

Yup. Read the fine print and follow the instructions and you should be fine. Almost everyone who gets SF status also makes Finalist. Save your prayers for the getting accepted part!

Nester

NMF's aren't the only 1/2 tuition (and even larger) merit based scholarships at USC. Just be sure to apply by the Dec. 1 scholarship deadline to be considered for all of the many merit scholarships they offer. Good luck!

lockn

The NMF application was due last month.

Nester

If you were a NMSF in your state but weren't contacted by either the NM Foundation or your high school, my advice would be for you or your parent to call the foundation asap and find out if there is anything you can do at this point. If they could FAX you an application and the materials for your school, you could get them your essay, transcript, and hopefully your GC's recommendation and form, along with informal copy of your SAT results (while the official one is on its way) overnight. And if the reason you didn't do the paperwork on time is the result of a mistake either at their office or at your school, perhaps this 11th hour catch-up would work? They are actually very nice and helpful, and will understand how significant NMF is for a student who is applying to USC. This is their website, which includes their phone number and a lot of other information: National Merit Scholarship Corporation

Georgia Girl

If you are a NMScholar and select USC as your first choice university......and are admitted you automatically qualify for a half tuition scholarship. In addition, there is a $1,000 per year award given by the NMFoundation.

Some students because of family financial need qualify for additional funding in addition to the NMScholarship.

I just attended a USC Admissions Information Receptio/workshop. The speaker stressed to apply to SC before Dec. 1st. She also encouraged students to apply for local scholarships such as Kiwanis, Rotary, Elks, Optimist Club etc. These can add up.

Keep in mind the vast majority of students attending SC are on financial aid. About 21%+ are on merit scholarships. Many students are on both merit and need scholarships.

roylikeswaffles

Haha I'm just a Junior trying to prepare for next year. Thanks for all the info. I really appreciate it.