Alachua County Students Earn National Merit Finalist Honors

16 students from Alachua County Public Schools named National Merit Finalists

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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All 16 students from Alachua County Public Schools who were previously recognized as semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship program have now been named finalists, a distinction earned by fewer than 1% of the nation's high school seniors.

Why it matters

The National Merit Scholarship program is among the most competitive academic recognition programs in the country, and being named a finalist is a significant achievement that can open doors to scholarships and other opportunities for these high-achieving students.

The details

To advance to finalist standing, semifinalists were required to submit detailed applications outlining their academic achievements, honors and awards, leadership activities, teacher recommendations and a personal essay. The finalists now move forward in consideration for National Merit Scholarship awards.

  • The PSAT/NMSQT exam was taken by students as juniors during the last school year.
  • The 16 Alachua County students were previously recognized as semifinalists.

The players

Alachua County Public Schools

The public school district serving Alachua County, Florida.

National Merit Scholarship Corporation

The organization that administers the National Merit Scholarship program, one of the most competitive academic recognition programs in the country.

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What’s next

In the coming months, the finalists will compete for National Merit Scholarships funded by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, corporate sponsors and colleges and universities.

The takeaway

This achievement highlights the academic excellence of students in Alachua County Public Schools and the district's commitment to providing high-quality education that prepares students for success in competitive programs like the National Merit Scholarship.