Last fall, 3.5 million students took the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) across the United States. Those who scored in the 99th percentile went on to become National Merit semifinalists.

Derby had three students qualify — Paige Davis, Skyler Sprecker and Quinn Meyer.

Because of their high scores on the test, the students have many more scholarship opportunities.

“Depending on the college, even if you are just a semifinalist, you can get scholarships just for that as well. But if you move on to finalist standings, it qualifies you for many scholarship opportunities — some are full ride.” Davis said.

In October, the three will take the test again to see if they qualify to become a National Merit finalist.

“The free money is nice,” Davis said. “It’s nice being able to get a scholarship based on the different schools just for doing what I would have done anyway.”