<p>When my son was a NM, he qualified for both a corporate one and a school one.</p>
<p>Since he was only allowed to choose one, NM called and told us that it was better to take the corporate one ($2500 for 4 years) and then accept the big university one (minus $1k - the “official” part of NM scholarship), so that my son would get the most money. This way he gets free tuition, free housing, and $2500 per year.</p>
<p>If I remember correctly, the “one time” NM $2500 ones are decided after the corporate and school ones are awarded. </p>
<p>There is NO BENEFIT to getting the NM money over the corporate or school ones. No matter how you get your scholarship, you’re still named a National Merit Scholar.</p>