2026 National Merit Scholarship Recognition: Yan-Ming Wu

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has released its 2026 recognitions and announced that NMMI’s Cadet Major Yan-ming Wu has been named a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist. This reflects the academic excellence and ambition that defines the New Mexico Military Institute. 

 

This is an extraordinary distinction. Cadet Wu ranks among the top 1% of high school juniors in the United States, based on PSAT scores. Out of more than 1.3 million test takers nationwide, only about 16,000 students reach this level each year. This places Cadet Wu in a truly elite group of scholars and stands as a testament to his dedication, intellect, and the support of our faculty and academic programs.

 

The National Merit Scholarship is one of the most prestigious academic honors available to high school students in the United States. It is a rare achievement and a strong indicator of exceptional academic promise. Cadet Wu’s accomplishment brings honor not only to himself and his family, but to the entire NMMI community. His success continues a proud tradition of academic achievement at our Institute, joining the ranks of previous semifinalists and commended students who have brought distinction to NMMI.

 

Congratulations to Cadet Wu on this remarkable achievement. Let his example inspire all of us to continue to striving for excellence in all that we do. At NMMI, we believe in the power of hard work, discipline, and academic ambition. Cadet Wu’s recognition is proof that these values lead to extraordinary results. It is a sincere hope that he continues to progress in the competition and ultimately earns the title of National Merit Finalist.