<p>National Merit is only one thing the schools look at in admissions and scholarships. And, some schools put no emphasis on National Merit. I think National Merit opens some doors, but it doesn’t close doors for quality kids with good test scores, good GPAs, rigorous course schedules and good extra-curriculars. If you happen to be a legacy, an athlete or an under-represented minority, all the better. I had 2 NMF daughters and its impact is a little over-stated in my opinion.</p>