Two Abington High School students are making the community proud when named as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists. More than 1.6 million students across the country entered the competition by taking the PSAT or the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test and approximately 16,000 students were selected as semifinalists. Matthew H. Rosen and Samantha C. Simon from Abington Senior High School were two of 500 Pennsylvania students selected as semifinalists.

National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists must meet the following criteria to be chosen:  outstanding academic record throughout high school be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay and meet SAT scores requirements.

Students who progress to the semifinalist level must submit an application with their high school that includes: academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership, employment and honors received. Scholars are chosen based on their skills, accomplishments and potential for success in college and receive college scholarships. The finalist level will be announced in February, and winners will be announced in April, May, June and July.