National Merit Scholarship
Scholar's Experience at USF
With exclusive campus services, transformative academic opportunities and generous scholarships, USF offers an unbeatable combination of benefits for National Merit Scholars.
Why USF For National Merit Finalists?
National Merit Scholars thrive at USF! Join a community of exceptional students from around the world and develop the knowledge, skills, and connections to make a global impact.
- With automatic acceptance into the distinguished Judy Genshaft Honors College, you’ll receive elite educational opportunities and participate in experiential learning and research as soon as freshman year.
- An attentive support team will help you achieve your highest aspirations. You’ll receive personalized academic advising from experts in the Office of National Scholars and a designated National Merit Scholars contact will be your advocate from start to finish.
- Through exclusive social events and academic workshops, you’ll discover a community of ambitious scholars where you fit right in, growing together at USF.
Real Scholar's Experience
“USF gave me a lot of opportunities to explore a lot of different parts of myself: my creative side, my analytical side. It’s very exciting every day that I’m here.”
Sophia Montejo '26
USF National Merit Scholar
“It’s a very welcoming environment and community, and I’ve met a lot of great people here. We have a great advisor. She’s amazing, and she’s for us.”
Kavery Kallichanda,
USF National Merit Scholar
“If you’re a National Merit Scholar considering coming to USF, definitely do it. It’s the best decision I could have made. It’s saved me so much money while giving me an amazing education.”
Rachel Weitz,
USF National Merit Scholar
Visit USF
Preview student life at USF! Special campus events are added each term, and guided tours may be scheduled most weekdays. Not ready for an in-person visit? Start exploring from anywhere via virtual tours! Once you see USF, you’ll understand why so many scholars make our university their home.