Merit-based scholarships are awards that are given for academic achievement or merit. It’s a way to help a student pay for college tuition; there are several ways to qualify for this.
Merit scholarships can be in the form of money or any academic honor you might earn through an award or scholarship, such as the National Merit or National Achievement Award Program. Some merit-based scholarships cover expenses such as room and board, transportation, and even pocket money if applicable.
Scholarship opportunities are available to everyone. Whether you’re a high school senior trying to enjoy some free time away from homework, or someone in college looking for more resources to pay for school, you can make a difference by winning some scholarships!
How are Merit Scholarships Given or Awarded?
Merit Scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence as well as extracurricular achievements. These scholarships are specifically geared toward students who excel in a particular field and wish to pursue post-secondary education.
- There is no universal application like the FAFSA that students submit to apply for merit scholarships.
- Colleges and universities offer merit scholarships to attract students with high academic achievement.
- The College Board and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) offer lists of merit-based scholarships.
Note: Some colleges and universities—both public and private— offer full-tuition scholarships to outstanding students, regardless of financial need.
Merit-Based Scholarships Requirements
Most scholarship programs require that you have a minimum GPA, or at least a 3.0, to qualify for the merit scholarships. You will have to have done well in college and have at least one recommendation letter from an instructor before giving you money if they choose you.
Merit-based Scholarships for International Students
There are many merit-based scholarships available for all international students who wish to study abroad. Below are some examples:
Erasmus Mundus Scholarship: This scholarship program is funded by the European Union and also gives funds for international students to pursue graduate studies in Europe. This kind of award is subjected to academic merit and other criteria such as language proficiency and work experience.
Fulbright Scholarship: This scholarship program is fully-funded by the U.S.A government, they offer funds for international students to pursue graduate studies in the United States. It is awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, and also cultural fit.
Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan: This is fully funded by Commonwealth countries and it’s also subjected to academic merit and other criteria such as leadership potential and community involvement.
Merit Scholarships that are Worth Applying For
Scholarships are one of the best ways to pay for high school or college. Private and public schools offer so many different scholarships, that it’s hard to know which ones are worth applying for.
What makes a Scholarship an Outstanding Prize?
Well, it depends on who judges the scholarship.
When do They Give Merit-Based Scholarships out
Merit Scholarships are awarded to students who have exceptional academic records and financial needs. However, your university’s scholarship committee will determine the actual awarding of merit scholarships.
Best GPA for Merit-Based Scholarship?
At least a 3.0, there have been standards as to what GPA one should have in order to have a chance at receiving merit scholarships. These standards have always been based on high marks and good grades.
However, the definition of a “good GPA” has changed because of essential factors like personal achievements, family background, and the ability to demonstrate leadership skills in the classroom or community.
In some cases, students may be eligible for a merit-based scholarship that does not require repayment. Before assuming that a student loan is the only option, it is wise to consider whether or not a merit-based scholarship may be an option.
By researching merit-based scholarships, a student may discover that there are inexpensive educational opportunities available to them.
Merit-based scholarships for eligible students will vary by state and institution, but the information presented above will get you started in the research process of finding funding for college.
