High schools with lots of National Merit Finalists, what's the secret?

Hey, I'm currently a junior and the National Merit Scholarship has been on my mind lately. Are there high schools with more National Merit Finalists than others? If some schools consistently produce more finalists, what factors contribute to that?

Whether a high school produces a high number of National Merit Finalists often depends on a few key factors.

1. School resources and environment: Schools with rigorous academic programs and ample resources to prepare students for standardized tests are more likely to generate outstanding PSAT/NMSQT scores, the basis for National Merit Scholarship qualification.

2. Test Prep: Extensive practice and preparation for the PSAT/NMSQT is paramount. Some high schools may offer focused preparation programs, in-class and extracurricular, specifically tailored for the PSAT.

3. College-going culture: Schools with a strong culture of aiming for higher education frequently emphasize the importance of scholarship programs like the National Merit, thereby motivating students to achieve high scores.

4. Student Socioeconomic Background: Schools where a larger percentage of students come from higher-income families often see more National Merit Scholarship finalists. This can partly be attributed to more resources for test preparation outside of school (like tutors or test-prep courses).

Remember, this doesn't mean you need to attend a certain type of high school to become a National Merit Finalist. Plenty of students from diverse educational backgrounds achieve this distinction each year. It's about your preparation and commitment. Good luck, and keep up the hard work!