Colleges That Award Merit Scholarships to the Most Students
Merit scholarships are a great option for students who excel in a certain area. Here, we outline the benefits of merit-based scholarships.
October 6, 2021

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Overivew of Scholarships at Merit Aid Colleges
Many scholarship programs consider both need and merit when awarding funds. However, some scholarship programs consider only merit. Applicants to these merit-based scholarships do not submit their FAFSA results or CollegeBoard CSS Profile.
Unlike need-based scholarships, merit scholarships offer funding based on performance alone. This gives learners more control over their scholarship potential. Students can further improve funding opportunities by applying to colleges with merit scholarships.
Many schools and nonprofit organizations offer merit-based scholarships to top-performing students. Learners usually qualify for merit-based scholarships based on high GPAs, above-average test scores, and impressive extracurricular records. Some specialized merit scholarships support learners with achievements in particular fields or disciplines, such as the arts.
This guide provides an overview of scholarships at merit aid colleges. The following sections detail typical scholarship requirements, availability, and benefits.
Schools and outside organizations may award merit-based scholarships. These scholarships cover part or all tuition costs for students with academic or leadership achievements. Some merit aid colleges feature scholarships that cover education-related expenses, such as room and board. Some scholarships even provide living expense stipends.
High-performing students often apply for merit scholarships from particular programs or schools. Many private organizations also offer merit-based scholarships. Learners can research scholarship opportunities through websites such as CareerOneStop.
According to Scholarships360's ranking, top merit aid colleges and universities include the University of Alabama, Arizona State University, and the University of Virginia. Private universities such as Boston College and Vanderbilt University also feature many merit-based scholarship opportunities.
Applicants to merit-based scholarships typically provide transcripts and standardized test scores. Many merit aid colleges also require scholarship candidates to submit recommendation letters and essays.
Ivy League schools' high institutional endowments allow them to financially assist all enrollees with financial need. Learners demonstrate financial need through their FAFSA results or CSS Profile. Since most Ivy League students perform well academically, these schools do not offer funding based on performance.
However, Ivy League attendees can qualify for merit-based scholarships from outside organizations. Ivy League students also may qualify for federal financial aid.
Benefits of a Merit-Based Scholarship
Merit scholarship award amounts and requirements vary by scholarship type and funding organization. Learners seeking merit scholarships should research their prospective schools' scholarship offerings.
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