Alpena High School student Milo Dahleen has been named a semifinalist in the National Merit Scholarship Program, putting him in the next stage of a national competition administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
The recognition was reported Sept. 10, 2026, after the National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced more than 16,000 semifinalists for the program’s 72nd annual edition. The semifinalists represent less than 1% of high school seniors in the United States.
What the recognition means
Dahleen is now competing for approximately 6,700 National Merit Scholarships. Together, those awards are worth about $24 million, according to the announcement.
Being named a semifinalist does not complete the selection process. Students who seek to advance to the Finalist level must submit a detailed application covering their academic record, participation in school and community activities, leadership, employment and honors.
Next steps for semifinalists
The application process also requires a recommendation from a high school official and an essay. Semifinalists must additionally earn confirming scores on the SAT or ACT.
The National Merit Scholarship Program’s process therefore weighs more than academic performance alone. The required materials ask students to document achievement, involvement, leadership and other parts of their school and community experience before finalists are selected.
Dahleen’s semifinalist recognition gives the Alpena High School student an opportunity to continue through that process and compete for one of the scholarships offered through the national program.