New Milford Student Named Merit Scholar Semifinalist

NEW MILFORD, CT — A New Milford student has been named a semifinalist in the 69th annual National Merit Scholarship program. More than 16,000 high school seniors nationwide have made it to this stage and will continue to compete for 7,140 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million, according to a statement.

New Milford High School student Brandon Zhang is among the National Merit semifinalists.

Scholarships are underwritten by National Merit with its own funds and by about 320 business organizations and higher education institutions.

The PSATs are an initial screening program for candidates. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than 1% of all high school seniors and is comprised of the highest-scoring entrants in each state.

To become a finalist, semifinalists must submit a detailed scholarship application providing information about their academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received.

Finalists will be considered for National Merit Scholarships offered in spring 2024.