What are some of the most popular merit scholarships I should consider?

I've heard about merit scholarships being quite competitive but super rewarding. What are some of the most popular ones out there? I'm hoping to apply for a few and could use some suggestions on where to start!

Sure, achievements in academics, athletics, and the arts are often rewarded through merit scholarships. They don't take financial need into account and are awarded based on excellence in a specific area.

1. National Merit Scholarship: This is one of the largest and best-known merit scholarships, open to all high school juniors who take the PSAT. An approximate 7,500 scholarships are awarded annually.

2. Coca-Cola Scholars Program: This program emphasizes leadership and service. It awards 150 scholarships of $20,000 each year.

3. Siemens Competition in Math, Science, and Technology: If you're a STEM enthusiast, this competition offers scholarships that range from $1,000 to $100,000 to high school students who have made significant achievements in these fields.

4. Intel Science Talent Search: Another one for STEM students, this awards participants on both an individual and team basis. The awards go as high as $100,000.

5. Flinn Foundation Scholarships: Only available for Arizona high school seniors planning to attend in-state universities. It covers tuition, room and board, and at least two travel abroad experiences.

Remember that many universities also offer merit scholarships, some of which are automatic for applicants meeting certain academic thresholds. For instance, Boston University awards the Trustee Scholarship to twenty admitted students each year, which covers full tuition for all four years of undergraduate study. Georgetown University presents the 1789 Scholarship to nearly 225 admitted students a year, which covers half to full tuition.

You might also find academic contests helpful as some offer scholarships for the winners. Be sure to explore all possible avenues!