As application season rears its head and college lists begin to solidify, it’s essential to look through the graveyard of schools that didn’t quite make the cut. If the main reason you’re removing a school from your list is the intimidating sticker price, it’s time to bring it back from the dead! Merit based scholarships can help make your dream school affordable.

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What is a merit based scholarships?

Unlike need-based aid, which is determined by a student’s financial circumstances, merit based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, talents, or other notable accomplishments. These merit based scholarship applications are often woven into the college application itself. In other words, you’re automatically considered for the scholarship by getting accepted into the school. Talk about a time-saver! Other times, the application is a matter of a few additional supplemental essays or demographic questions.

Qualifying for merit based scholarships

Qualifying factors for merit based scholarships are usually GPA, leadership, community service, or major affiliation, but they can also be things like academic promise, displayed perseverance, talent, or personal achievements. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of tuition, if not all of it! Here are a few examples of the many significant scholarships offered directly through universities:

  • Angier B. Duke Scholarship – Duke University ($66,326): Provides full tuition, room, board, and mandatory fees based on merit, academic achievement, and promise in a preferred major.
  • Trustee Scholarship – University of Southern California ($66,640): Covers full tuition for four years and is awarded to a select number of competitive students applying early action to USC.
  • Stamps Scholars Program – University of Notre Dame ($65,025): Offers full tuition and associated fees for four years as well as an additional stipend for summer enrichment opportunities. Awarded based on merit, leadership potential, and character.
  • Emory Scholars Program – Emory University ($63,400): Offers merit based awards that cover full or partial tuition, along with stipends for research and internships.

If your dream school isn’t listed, don’t worry—many prestigious universities offer substantial merit based aid. Check your college’s website to discover what merit based scholarships they offer.

Other merit based aid options

In addition to college-specific scholarships, many states offer their own merit based aid programs, which can significantly reduce tuition costs for eligible students attending in-state schools. The only catch is that most of these state-based scholarships are only eligible at qualifying institutions in that state. Some examples include:

  • Florida Bright Futures Scholarship: Provides full or partial tuition coverage for Florida high school graduates with strong academic records at eligible Florida institutions. Learn how to apply and increase your chances of winning in our Bright Futures Scholarship guide.
  • The Georgia HOPE Scholarship: Offers substantial tuition assistance to Georgia residents with excellent academic achievements at eligible in-state colleges.
  • The California Cal Grant: Covers tuition costs for California residents attending public or private colleges within the state, based on academic merit and financial need.
  • The New York Excelsior Scholarship: Provides free tuition at New York’s public colleges for middle-income families, making higher education more accessible.
  • The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship: Grants financial assistance to Tennessee residents with high academic achievements, applicable to in-state colleges.
  • The Texas Tuition Promise Fund: Allows families to lock in today’s tuition rates for future use at Texas public institutions, reducing the burden of rising college costs.

Tips for maximizing your merit based scholarship chances

Securing a merit based scholarship can significantly reduce the cost of your college education. To increase your chances, it’s crucial to start planning early and take strategic steps throughout your high school years. Here’s how:

  • Research early and thoroughly: Identify higher-priced dream colleges and the specific merit based scholarships they offer early on. Not sure when to start? Check out our guide to learn when to apply for scholarships.
  • Engage in qualifying activities: Participate in activities that enhance your eligibility, such as leadership roles, community service, and academic competitions.
  • Focus your applications: When applying for private scholarships, select a few that closely match your profile and dedicate time to making those applications stand out.
  • Maintain strong academics: Consistently aim for high grades and challenging courses. A strong GPA and advanced coursework can make a big difference when applying for academic scholarships.
  • Build relationships with teachers: Develop strong connections with teachers and mentors who can provide compelling letters of recommendation for scholarships that highlight your strengths and achievements.
  • Prepare for standardized tests: Invest time in preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, as high scores can boost your eligibility for merit based scholarships.
  • Stay organized: Keep track of deadlines, required documents, and any supplemental essays needed for scholarship applications. Staying organized ensures you don’t miss any critical steps.
  • Seek feedback: Have your scholarship essays and applications reviewed by teachers, mentors, or peers to ensure they are polished and impactful.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-positioned to increase your chances of securing valuable merit based scholarships.

Key takeaways

High school student shaking teacher's hand at graduation Merit based scholarships are a great way to make your dream college more affordable by rewarding your hard work and talents. The best part? Many of these scholarships are automatically considered with your college application, saving you time and stress. Don’t forget to check out state-based scholarships too—they can offer significant savings if you’re staying in-state.

Finally, while scholarships are important when discussing college financials, remember that choosing a college is about more than just cost. Keep the focus on finding a school that feels right for you—a place where you’ll thrive academically and personally. With a little planning, you can land a scholarship and find the perfect college fit! 

Merit based scholarships are a great way to make your dream college more affordable by rewarding your hard work and talents. The best part? Many of these scholarships are automatically considered with your college application, saving you time and stress. Don’t forget to check out state-based scholarships too—they can offer significant savings if you’re staying in-state.

Finally, while scholarships are important when discussing college financials, remember that choosing a college is about more than just cost. Keep the focus on finding a school that feels right for you—a place where you’ll thrive academically and personally. With a little planning, you can land a scholarship and find the perfect college fit! 

High school student shaking teacher's hand at graduation

FAQs about merit based scholarships

Merit based scholarships are awarded based on academic, artistic, or extracurricular achievements, while need-based scholarships are awarded based on financial need.

Yes, students can apply for both types of scholarships, and in some cases, receive aid from both sources.

Visit your prospective college's financial aid or admissions website to learn about available merit based scholarships and their application processes.

No, while GPA is important, many scholarships also consider leadership, community service, and personal achievements.

Yes, but it's more effective to focus on a few scholarships that closely match your qualifications rather than applying to every available option.

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