Oyster Bay High School announced that three seniors have earned recognition in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program. Elise Kim has been named a National Merit Semifinalist, while Samuel Brenner and Aari Gupta have been recognized as National Merit Commended Students.
Established in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes scholastic achievement and encourages academic excellence. Students enter the program by taking the PSAT/NMSQT during their junior year. Semifinalists represent fewer than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and are among the highest-scoring students in their respective states.
As a semifinalist, Kim now has the opportunity to advance to Finalist standing by completing a detailed scholarship application. The selection process considers academic records, leadership, participation in school and community activities, and a recommendation from a high school official. Approximately 7,500 Finalists will ultimately receive National Merit Scholarships.
Brenner and Gupta earned Commended Student recognition by placing among the top 50,000 students nationwide who took the PSAT/NMSQT. While Commended Students do not continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, the distinction recognizes their outstanding academic performance on a national level.
