The National Merit Program is an academic competition in the United States that recognizes high school students for their exceptional performance on the PSAT/NMSQT exam. This program identifies students who demonstrate outstanding academic abilities and provides scholarships to help them pursue higher education. Students who score in the top percentile on the PSAT are designated as National Merit Semifinalists, and they can advance to become Finalists by meeting additional criteria. The program awards various scholarships, including National Merit Scholarships, which are funded by the program itself and participating colleges and universities.