<p>inparent, I did not suggest that OP call the call for “chances”. In fact the entire spirit of my post on this thread is to discourge the OP (and others) from the notion of “chancing”. My suggestion is that she call to confirm the needed materials for merit consideration. </p>
<p>"…wouldn’t divulge their method (for merit awards) to a student who called and asked…" Baloney. Asking a school about their critrea for merit awards (required materials, special apps, deadlines) is hardly taboo. Most schools are very up-front about what they value in prospective students. </p>
<p>Plant both feet firmly on the ground and ask “What do I need to do to qualify for merit consideration?”
Boom. </p>