In an effort to provide more need-based aid, The University of Texas at Austin is pulling out of the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Last year, the school enrolled more National Merit Scholars than any other college except Harvard University.

Of the 281 scholarship winners it enrolled last year, Texas sponsored 213 – a high number, considering most colleges sponsor fewer than 50. The remaining 68 were sponsored by companies and other groups.

Most National Merit Scholars at Texas received $13,000 over a period of four years.

University officials claim the decision to pull out of the program has nothing to do with recent criticisms of how scholars are selected.

Just a few months ago, the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) asked the program – as well as the College Board – to reevaluate using PSAT scores as the basis for awarding scholarships. The NACAC suggested using PSAT scores as one of the qualifications rather than the primary qualification.

But Texas administrators say the decision to opt out of the program is unrelated.

As quoted in Chronicle.com, Tom Melecki, director of student financial services said, “When we looked at what was happening in the economy, we decided it was important to redirect resources to make sure that all students that are qualified to be admitted to the university are able to attend regardless of need.”

Did the university make the right move? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.

Tags: College Board, National Association for College Admission Counseling, National Merit Scholarship Program, PSAT, Tom Melecki, University of Texas