Three area students have been selected as 2013 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists.

Samuel Wallace from Dallas Center Grimes High School along with Joel Berner and Brett Wittmuse of Waukee High School are among the 16,000 semifinalists nationwide.

The academically talented high school seniors will now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,300 National Merit Scholarships worth more than a total of $32 million.

The semifinalists represent less than one percent of all U.S. high school seniors.  They are selected based on scores earned in the 2011 Preliminary Scholastic Achievement and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.  In order to become finalists, the students and their high school will need to complete a detailed application including the semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities and honors and awards received.

The scholarships will be announced and awarded next spring.