Bowling Green, September 15, 2025
News Summary
Kollin Hsieh and Finley Hondorp, two seniors at Bowling Green High School, have been named finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program. They are among a select group of over 16,000 semifinalists competing for scholarships based on academic performance. The program involves rigorous criteria, with a notable percentage projected to become finalists and potentially receive scholarships totalling nearly $28 million. The school’s principal expressed pride in their accomplishments and in fostering academic excellence.
Bowling Green – Two seniors at Bowling Green High School, Kollin Hsieh and Finley Hondorp, have been recognized as finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Their achievement places them among over 16,000 semifinalists across the nation competing for prestigious scholarships based on their academic records, standardized test scores, and other criteria.
This year marks the 71st annual iteration of the National Merit Scholarship Program, which began with a vast pool of more than 1.3 million high school juniors who took the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Less than one percent of these entrants achieve semifinalist status, which identifies the highest-scoring students in each state.
To advance from semifinalist to finalist, students must continue to excel academically, submit a comprehensive scholarship application, and attain SAT or ACT test scores that align with their previous academic performance. Approximately 95% of semifinalists are anticipated to attain finalist status, with around half ultimately awarded a scholarship.
The scholarships available include: $2,500 state-representational awards, corporate-sponsored awards, and college-sponsored awards. Results for scholarship recipients will be announced through four nationwide news releases scheduled between April and July 2026.
Hsieh and Hondorp join an elite group of students recognized for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership skills, and potential success in higher education. Bowling Green High School, proud of its students, has previously recognized three seniors as National Merit Semifinalists this year: Sono Fukushima, Ethan Langford, and Alisha Mullick. Each of these students is noted for their broad involvement in extracurricular activities such as the band, swim and dive teams, and academic teams.
The principal of Bowling Green High School, Kyle McGraw, expressed immense pride in the accomplishments of Hsieh and Hondorp, as well as their peers, emphasizing their dedication and hard work. In fact, the school has previously acknowledged six seniors in 2012 as National Merit Scholarship semifinalists, demonstrating a long-standing tradition of academic excellence.
The National Merit Scholarship Program is a significant opportunity for academically gifted students, with around 7,250 scholarships totaling nearly $28 million distributed each spring. The program’s impressive caliber is highlighted by the rigorous selection process, as National Merit Semifinalists represent less than one percent of high school seniors across the United States.
Bowling Green High School aims to continue celebrating the academic accomplishments of its students and fostering an environment where excellence in scholarship and achievement is recognized.
FAQ Section
What is the National Merit Scholarship Program?
The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and college scholarships that began in 1955. It is based on students’ scores on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.
How do students qualify for the National Merit Scholarship?
Students qualify for the National Merit Scholarship by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test and achieving high scores. Those who qualify as semifinalists must then maintain a strong academic record and provide additional documentation to advance to finalist status.
What types of scholarships are awarded?
The scholarships awarded through the National Merit Scholarship Program include $2,500 state-representational awards, corporate-sponsored awards, and college-sponsored awards.
Key Features of the National Merit Scholarship Program
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | High school juniors taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test |
| Selection of Semifinalists | Less than 1% of entrants based on test scores |
| Finalist Criteria | Maintain academic excellence, complete application, validate test scores |
| Scholarships Available | Over $28 million in scholarships including $2,500 awards, corporate and college-sponsored awards |
| Announcement of Winners | April to July 2026 for recipients |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Bowling Green West End Greenway Project Receives Approval
Bowling Green Schools Approve $60 Million Facilities Plan
Three Local High School Seniors Shine as National Merit Finalists
Additional Resources
- WBKO: Bowling Green High Celebrates National Merit Finalists
- Wikipedia: National Merit Scholarship Program
- WBKO: Bowling Green High School Announces 2023 National Merit Semifinalists
- Google Search: National Merit Scholarship Program
- Sentinel-Tribune: BGS Higgins Wins National Merit Scholarship
- Encyclopedia Britannica: National Merit Scholarship Program
- Cleveland.com: 2021 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists Announced
- Google News: National Merit Semifinalists 2023
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
