These three were chosen from the more than 16,000 Semifinalists named in September 2012. Selection of winners is now in process. All winners of Merit Scholarship awards are chosen from the Finalist group, based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments. A variety of information is available for selectors to evaluate: the Finalist's academic record, information about the school's curricula and grading system, two sets of test scores, the high school counselor's written recommendation, information about the student's activities and leadership, and the Finalist's own essay. Hearty congratulations!