<p>If i want to defer acceptance for a year at a college and enroll in 2010 instead of 2009 (Im a junior), can i still be a NM semifinalist/take part in the competition?</p>
<p>The following is a requirement for participation in the program from the National Merit website: </p>
<p>“a student must be enrolled full time as a high school student, progressing normally toward graduation or completion of high school, and planning to enroll full time in college no later than the fall following completion of high school.”</p>
<p>That only applies to the National Merit Corporation funded scholarships. Other various ones may be allowed to keep their scholarships. This is from the National Merit page on University of Oklahoma’s page (ou.edu):</p>
<p>“Often students will spend a year studying abroad, will go on a two-year mission trip, or will participate in a co-op program before coming to OU. If you choose to do this and fill out the appropriate paperwork, we will ensure that you do not lose your scholarship from OU when you enroll.”</p>