Six USVI Students Named National Merit Semifinalists for 2026 Program

USVI Students Achieve National Academic Recognition

Six academically talented students from the U.S. Virgin Islands have been designated Semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. This prestigious recognition places them among the top high school scholars nationwide, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. The students earned this honor through their exceptional performance on the 2024 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which saw over 1.3 million juniors enter the program.

Local Honorees from Antilles and Gifft Hill Schools

Among the six Virgin Islands students, Emma Walters from Antilles School on St. Thomas and Dax Chouiniere from Gifft Hill School on St. John were specifically celebrated by their respective institutions. Their achievements underscore the depth of student talent within the territory.

• Emma Walters, a member of the Class of 2026 at Antilles School, is recognized for her academic excellence and contributions to campus life. She is a sailor, artist, and a founding member of the National Art Honor Society. Walters previously gained national attention as the Virgin Islands winner of the 2023 Doodle for Google competition. Her interests extend to architecture and economics. Shannon Harris, Head of School at Antilles, praised Walters's 'curiosity, passion, and a sense of purpose' in her approach to learning.
• Dax Chouiniere of Gifft Hill School was lauded by Head of School Liz Kinsella, who called his achievement 'a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication to his studies.' Kinsella noted that Chouiniere's recognition reflects the rigor and resilience of Gifft Hill students and the school's commitment to preparing them for high-level opportunities.

The Path to Finalist Status and Scholarship Opportunities

To advance in the competition and be considered for a National Merit Scholarship, these Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to attain Finalist standing. This process involves submitting a detailed scholarship application, which includes their academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment history, and honors and awards received. Additionally, they must write an essay and submit SAT or ACT scores that confirm their earlier performance on the PSAT/NMSQT.

Approximately 16,000 students nationwide were named Semifinalists. About 95 percent of Semifinalists are expected to achieve Finalist standing. Finalists for the 2026 program will be announced in February 2026. From this group, roughly 7,500 scholarships totaling nearly $30 million will be awarded, with winners announced between April and July 2026. The National Merit Scholarship Program is conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), a not-for-profit organization established in 1955.