Greater Atlanta Christian School proudly announces that seniors Noah An and Madeline Austin have been named National Merit Semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Competition. Noah and Madeline are among more than 16,000 Semifinalists in the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Semifinalists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and are recognized for their exceptional academic promise. They were chosen from over 1.3 million students who took the 2024 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) during their junior year.

To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award and advance to the competition’s Finalist level, Semifinalists must submit a detailed application that includes their academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. Noah and Madeline have submitted their applications for consideration at the next level.

The 2026 competition will award approximately 6,930 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million, to be announced in the spring of 2026.

In addition, GAC senior Elizabeth Martin has been named a Commended Student in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. Elizabeth is among 34,000 students across the nation recognized for exceptional academic ability and potential for academic success in college. She will receive a Letter of Commendation at GAC’s Spring Awards Ceremony.

We are proud of these students’ accomplishments and the excellence they represent in our school community. Congratulations, Noah, Madeline, and Elizabeth!