<p>mt2011…your stats are high enough, I don’t think increasing them will have an added effect on whether you will be invited for a scholarship or not. Candidates are looked at for more than the numbers. Those who are invited generally have something that makes them stand out over other applicants. This may include exceptional leadership qualities or community service, major awards, a long term and consistent research background, demonstration of exceptional success in HS under adverse conditions, or particular talents which indicate that the candidate will be very successful in some field. </p>
<p>For example, my D is a Trustee scholar and her SATs were not in the 2200s (though she did have an very high GPA and was a valedictorian.) In her case we believe it was her research background and related awards, as well as her chosen major related to that research indicating that she planned to continue in that area.</p>
<p>Looking at previous years’ acceptances in Jan/early Feb, you will see that not everyone had the tippy top stats, yet they were invited, Conversely, others who had great SATs in the 2300s were not invited.</p>
<p>Remember also that the essays are very important. Be sure to show who you are. Essays are looked at very carefully and can have an effect of scholarship candidacy.</p>
<p>And yes, if you are NMF, you will receive the Presidential, as long as you name USC as your first choice. (This can be done later on when you come to decide that USC is for you)</p>
<p>Best of luck!</p>