Getting a college education can open the door for many students, but it can be difficult to figure out how to pay for tuition. While student loans are an option, it is best to look for alternatives that do not require repayment. We have seen colleges and universities highlight different ways to help students spend on their education. Fortunately, there are a growing number of avenues for financing higher education. According to a survey by US New and World Report, the average merit award given to full-time graduate students was $ 11,287 in the 2019-2020 academic year. This article will focus on high school seniors (and college students!) And how to get them based on merit-based scholarships.
What is a merit-based scholarship?
A merit-based scholarship is a financial award that can be used to offset the cost of college and university education. One of the best things about merit-based scholarships is that, unlike student loans, they are not required to pay. It helps families and expands opportunities for students from different backgrounds without burdening them with debt.
There is a perception that you need to be a straight-A student or a star athlete to earn a merit-based scholarship, but it is more accessible than that. To be eligible, students must meet certain criteria in terms of academic performance, special achievements / skills / interests, and / or financial needs.
In general, eligibility for merit-based scholarships is based on:
- Educational performance
- Athletics
- Artistic talent
- Community spirit
- Leadership ability
- Special interests
- Demographics
Before applying for a merit-based scholarship, carefully review the eligibility criteria. Often, the application and selection process is lengthy, so you don’t want to waste time on anything you don’t deserve!
Colleges with the majority of students receiving merit-based scholarships
If you are planning to apply for a merit-based scholarship, it may be a good idea to look for the schools that most students are receiving. Based on the 2020-2021 academic year, here are the top five schools with the highest percentage of students who “did not have financial need and who were provided scholarships or grant aid based on institutional non-need.” Please note that this does not include tuition benefits and athletic rewards.
- Vanguard University of Southern California (99%)
- Fisher College – Boston (82%)
- Webb Institute (77%)
- Keiser University (68%)
- The New England Conservatory of Music (60%)
Didn’t see your school here? This website Provides a detailed list Schools with the highest number of students receiving qualifying assistance in the United States.
Colleges with the largest merit-based scholarships
When choosing a college, it may be worthwhile to explore the size of scholarships based on merit. Not all schools disclose these amounts publicly, however College Insights tool Available shared data sets can be used to sort information.
Here is a list of the average amount offered:
- Webb Institute – $ 51,700
- University of Richmond – 40,769
- Beloit College – 40,533
- Hendrix College – 39,881
- Albion College – $ 37,375
- Hartwick College – 36,219
- Susquehanna University – $ 34,569
- Allegheny College – 33,809
- Clarkson University – 33,670
- Seattle Pacific University – 33,317
Again, this list is not necessarily complete so if you are interested in school but do not see it here, contact them and ask about their eligibility support. Do this as soon as possible in the college application process!
Top merit-based scholarships
At first glance, you may think that scholarships are all about money, but sometimes it’s more than that. For example, students may be motivated to earn prizes such as the Rhodes Scholarship or the Harry S. Truman Scholarship for Reputation. Finally, it is important to evaluate your needs before deciding which type to choose.
Here are some excellent merit-based scholarships for high school seniors:
National Qualification Scholarship Program
- Financial rewards: varies, but राष्ट्रिय 2,500 for national qualification
- Number of Recipients: About half of all applicants
- Based on PSAT / NMSQT scores
Gates Millennium Scholars Program
- Financial rewards: vary
- Number of recipients: 1,000
- This program is for “excellent minority students with significant financial needs”.
Dell scholars
- Financial Rewards: $ 20,000
- Number of recipients: 500
- Scholarship recipients also receive money for new laptops and textbooks
- All applicants must be eligible for the Pell Grant, which is based on household income.
Barry Goldwater Scholarship
- Financial rewards: up to ,500 7,500
- Number of recipients: about 400
- For college sophomores and juniors pursuing careers in engineering, mathematics, and natural sciences
Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation
- Financial Rewards: $ 20,000
- Number of recipients: 150
- Qualifications are based on academic performance, leadership skills, and volunteer work
- Applicants must go through an in-depth interview process.
Udall Graduate Scholarship
- Financial rewards: up to $ 7,000
- Number of recipients: 55
- College sophomores and juniors can apply for three types of scholarships.
- A scholarship is for students pursuing careers in environmentalism or conservation.
- The two scholarships are for Native Americans and Alaskan Native Americans interested in Native policy or basic health care.
Buick Achievers Scholarship
- Financial rewards: up to ,000 25,000
- Number of recipients: 50
- Scholarships are renewable for those studying engineering, technology, and related subjects.
- Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and leadership abilities.
- Economic needs can also be considered.
Foot Locker Scholarship
- Financial rewards: $ 20,000, spread as 5,000 per year
- Number of recipients: 20
- This program is for players with high GPA.
Qualification based scholarship based on GPA
One way to earn merit-based scholarships for high school seniors is through your GPA. This is especially useful for those who have not received any standardized test scores but want to start securing qualification assistance. Here are some great options:
General and Kelly Tanabe Scholarships
- Financial Rewards: $ 1,000
- Term: July 31, 2022
- Eligibility: All high school students, college students, undergraduate students, and adult learners
Club of America Scholarship Awards
- Financial Rewards: $ 1,000
- Term: August 31, 2022
- Qualifications: Open to college students who write essays on their career aspirations and have a GPA of 3.0 or above.
Cameron Impact Scholarship
- Financial Rewards: Covers the full cost of tuition
- Term: September 9, 2022
- Eligibility: High school seniors are enrolled in a recognized four-year American college or university
- Academic Requirement: Minimum Unpaid 3.7 GPA
American Floral Endowment Scholarship
- Financial rewards: $ 300– ,000 4,000
- Term: May 1 of each year
- Qualifications: College students are pursuing a degree in floriculture or agriculture
- Educational Requirement: Minimum 2.0 GPA
Athletic scholarship based on merit
There are many opportunities for merit-based scholarships for high school seniors who are athletes. Some of these scholarships are limited to students playing special sports, while others are open to players of any sport. Here are some great examples:
BigSun Scholarship
- Financial Rewards: $ 500
- Term: June 19, 2022
- Qualifications: College students and high school seniors
Billy Velu Scholarship
- Financial Rewards: $ 1,000
- Term: June 22, 2022
- Qualifications: College students with excellent bowling talent and strong academic performance
Michael Moody Fitness Scholarship
- Financial prize: $ 1,500
- Term: August 1, 2022
- Eligibility: High school seniors, college or undergraduate students plan to pursue a career in health and fitness
Race Admission Student Scholarship
- Financial Rewards: $ 500
- Term: August 15, 2022
- Eligibility: Students enrolled in college running in organized race
Heisman High School Scholarship
- Financial rewards: 500 to $ 5,000
- Opens: August 16, 2022
- Qualifications: High school senior players
How to Apply for a Merit-Based Scholarship
Now that you’ve learned about the different types of merit-based scholarships for high school seniors (and college students!), It’s time to talk about how to apply.
Be specific.
Above all, just apply for the scholarship that you really deserve. In fact, you may want to tailor your efforts to find opportunities to better align with your educational performance, skills, interests, or level of financial need.
Choose the right school.
We’ve listed some schools with excellent merit-based scholarships, so if getting help is needed for your educational journey, you can give priority to those colleges. To streamline your research, look for websites Break the scholarship In categories such as public colleges and universities, private national universities, and small liberal arts colleges.
Read the rules.
In recent years, competition for these scholarship awards has intensified, so it is really important to review the qualification requirements and application process. These applications often take a lot of time and effort, so you don’t want to be seen because you missed something in good print (or on time!).
To look different
You want to grab the donor’s attention, so you need to find ways to stand out from the pack. When it’s just a temptation to rush through the application process, take the time to share what makes you unique. You want them to be memorable when it’s time to hand over those prizes!
Complete your profile.
Do you need to sign up for a website to apply for a scholarship? If so, make sure your profile is complete. Use this space to your advantage by highlighting your strengths and experiences. You never know who might be watching!
Apply for more than one scholarship.
You found and applied for the best merit-based scholarship – so now you did, didn’t you? Wrong! Even if you meet all the criteria, you may not be selected, so it is best to apply for multiple prizes to increase your chances of receiving qualifying assistance.
Submit your FAFSA.
To be considered for all possible scholarships, whether they are need-based or merit-based, you are required to submit a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Assistance) application. In fact, it may be necessary for some of the qualification-based scholarships we have already discussed.
When it comes to higher education, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. To get started, set yourself up for success. First, take the time to research to find the right qualification-based scholarships for high school seniors. Then make a real effort to submit a great application. For many, this is the first step towards living the life you deserve – so put your best foot forward!