academic merit

USAGE SUMMARY

"academic merit" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referencing a student's scholarly accomplishments, especially when in comparison to other students or a standard. For example, "John's academic merit is undeniable; he consistently surpasses all of his peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Well, being a woman is not an academic merit.

The Guardian - Opinion

Only a handful, such as Caltech, admit applicants solely on academic merit.

The Economist

The usual objections I've encountered fail to supply one: "Admissions should be purely on academic merit".

The Guardian - Opinion

'Our system ensures applicants are considered solely on academic merit,' says Geraint Fox, assistant registrar.

The Guardian

She would put an end to that by reintroducing "selection by academic merit".

The Guardian

The cases were selected for their diversity as well as their technical, clinical, and academic merit.

Medical Modelling The Application of Advanced Design and Development Techniques in Medicine

Additional barriers relate to the academic merit system, publishing and the role of personal chemistry.

Land Use Policy

"Pembroke College is totally committed to selecting its students solely on the basis of academic merit,' he said.

The Guardian

In addition, aid, which has historically been based on need, is increasingly being granted on academic merit.

The New York Times

Disabled students are entitled to be judged on academic merit in the same way as others, and given extra support.

The Guardian

These also have little to do with an applicant's academic merit but would never be considered criminal.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing admissions or scholarships, use "academic merit" to emphasize that decisions are based on intellectual achievements rather than other factors like personal connections or financial background.

Common error

Avoid equating "academic merit" solely with high grades. Consider mentioning other factors like research experience, publications, and intellectual curiosity to provide a more comprehensive picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "academic merit" functions as a noun phrase, where "academic" modifies "merit". It describes the quality of being deserving of praise or reward due to one's scholarly accomplishments. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

50%

News & Media

35%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "academic merit" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase that signifies the quality of deserving praise or reward based on scholarly achievements. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is most commonly employed within academic, news, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, consider the broader implications beyond just grades, encompassing research, intellectual curiosity, and overall contribution to the academic community. While often used as a key criterion for admissions and scholarships, it's important to remember that other factors also play a significant role in decision-making processes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scholastic achievement

Focuses more specifically on completed achievements within a scholastic setting, rather than inherent merit.

educational excellence

Emphasizes the quality of being outstanding in education, shifting the focus to overall superiority.

intellectual capability

Highlights the inherent intellectual capacity, differing from demonstrated merit.

scholarly competence

Stresses the proven ability to perform scholarly tasks effectively.

academic qualifications

Refers to the specific qualifications obtained through academic study.

intellectual prowess

Emphasizes exceptional skill and talent in intellectual activities.

demonstrated aptitude

Highlights a natural ability that has been shown or proven through performance.

proven academic skills

Focuses on skills that have been validated through academic performance.

outstanding scholarship

Refers to exceptional achievements and contributions to a field of study.

high academic standing

Indicates a position of honor or respect due to academic performance.

FAQs

How is "academic merit" typically evaluated in college admissions?

"Academic merit" is usually assessed through grades, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and the rigor of courses taken. Some institutions also consider research experience and extracurricular activities.

What factors besides grades contribute to "academic merit"?

Factors like research experience, publications, intellectual curiosity, and challenging coursework can enhance one's "academic merit". These demonstrate a deeper engagement with learning beyond simply achieving high grades.

How does "academic merit" differ from "intellectual merit"?

"Academic merit" typically refers to achievements within a formal educational setting, while "intellectual merit" can encompass broader intellectual capabilities and contributions, not necessarily tied to academic institutions.

Is "academic merit" the sole criterion for scholarships and admissions?

While "academic merit" is a significant factor, many institutions also consider factors such as financial need, leadership potential, and diversity when awarding scholarships and making admissions decisions.