<p>Nemom I think this explains it: “Qualifying National Merit finalists who do not apply for or do not receive need-based financial assistance will be awarded the minimum award of* $1,000 per year.” </p>
<p>[HMC</a> Merit-Based Awards](<a href=“http://www.hmc.edu/admission1/costsandaid1/typesofaid1/scholarshipsandgrants1/hmcmeritbasedawards.html]HMC”>Merit-Based Scholarships | Harvey Mudd College)</p>