Wichita State University will host the best and brightest students from the area at the annual National Merit Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, at the Marcus Welcome Center.

National Merit semifinalists and their guests will be treated to lunch and a program during the event.

If any of these students become National Merit finalists and list WSU as their first choice of school with the National Merit Corp. by May 1, 2010, WSU will award them tuition, fees, books and housing costs for four years (including increases). That's a four-year, full-ride scholarship offer.

Students who attend the program will hear from WSU President Donald Beggs and other prominent WSU members.

Students should RSVP for the luncheon by Monday, Oct. 19 at www.admissions.wichita.edu.

For more information about the National Merit Luncheon, call the Office of Admissions at (316) 978-3085 or (800) 362-2594.