A Presidential Scholarship stands as a distinguished and fiercely competitive academic accolade frequently extended by American universities and colleges. These scholarships are crafted to commend and recompense exceptional high school students who exhibit outstanding academic accomplishments, leadership aptitude, and a dedication to community service. Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious scholarships accessible to incoming college students, Presidential Scholarships are a testament to the academic excellence and leadership potential of the recipients.
Typically, Presidential Scholarships are bestowed upon undergraduate students who are embarking on their journey toward obtaining a bachelor’s degree. These scholarships are renowned for their prestige and the fierce competition they entail. They are typically granted based on factors such as academic prowess, leadership acumen, and other remarkable accomplishments. Universities and colleges use these scholarships as a means to attract and support exceptionally high-achieving students, often covering a substantial portion or the entirety of tuition expenses. Additional benefits, including provisions for room and board, and stipends for books and supplies, may also be included.
While Presidential Scholarships are primarily geared toward undergraduate students, it’s worth noting that certain universities and institutions may offer analogous merit-based scholarships for graduate students, albeit under different names or designations. Graduate students often gain access to a diverse array of scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships that are tailored to their specific academic disciplines and research interests. These awards are typically characterized by intense competition and serve as vital financial support mechanisms that enable graduate students to pursue advanced degrees in their chosen fields of study.
Here are some of the scholarships offered for graduate and undergraduate students by accredited universities.
Presidential Scholarships offered by New Mexico Highlands University
New Mexico Highlands University, situated in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a public institution renowned for its diverse student population, intimate class sizes, robust research initiatives, notable accomplishments by both students and faculty and the chance for students to integrate academic learning with practical experience. Additionally, NMHU extends its educational reach through distance education, online courses, and local faculty presence, enabling students to pursue degree-completion programs and graduate studies in various locations, including Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Espanola, Farmington, Raton, and Roswell.
Here are some of the Presidential Scholarships offered for graduate and undergraduate students at NMHU:
- Graduate Presidential Scholarship: The Graduate Presidential Scholarship offers $2,500, divided as $1,250 per semester, to students who have graduated with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and have achieved a GPA of 3.5 or higher. This scholarship is renewable for three semesters, provided the recipient completes at least 9 credit hours per semester while maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Presidential Silver Scholarship: The Presidential Silver Scholarship offers $4,700, split as $3,200 for the first semester and $1,500 for the second. It’s available to students with a high school GPA between 3.5 and 3.74 and an ACT score of 22, as verified by the official transcript. After the successful completion of 15 credits per semester with a minimum GPA of 2.5, this scholarship transitions into the NM Legislative Lottery Scholarship, supplemented with an additional $1,500 for up to seven semesters. The total eligibility period for this scholarship extends to eight semesters.
- Presidential Gold Scholarship: The Presidential Gold Scholarship offers a total of $5,700, distributed as $3,700 in the first semester and $2,000 in the second semester. Eligibility for this scholarship requires a high school GPA of 3.75 and an ACT score of 25, as evidenced by official transcripts. After completing 15 credits per semester with a minimum GPA of 2.5, this scholarship transitions to the NM Legislative Lottery Scholarship, supplemented with an additional $2,000 for seven semesters. The overall eligibility period for the scholarship extends to eight semesters.
- Presidential Transfer Scholarship: The Presidential Transfer Scholarship offers $2,000, distributed as $1,000 per semester, to students who have achieved a transfer GPA of 3.0 or higher and have been conferred an Associate’s Degree. Recipients are required to complete 12 credit hours each semester and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship is renewable for up to four semesters. However, it is important to note that it is not applicable to online programs.
For more details, see Presidential and Dean Graduate Scholarships at NMHU.
Presidential Scholarships offered by SUNY College at Oswego
SUNY College at Oswego is a public university situated in Albany, New York. It holds the #628 ranking among the Best National Universities. SUNY Oswego is distinguished as one of the top comprehensive universities nationwide, renowned for its exceptional faculty, inclusive environment, and its track record of fostering deeply committed alumni. Notably, SUNY disburses nearly $80 million in financial aid annually to support its students.
Here are some of the Presidential Scholarships offered for undergraduate students at SUNY College at Oswego:
- First-Year Merit Scholarships: Merit scholarships for first-year students are granted on a competitive basis to those who are enrolled full-time and possess an impressive academic track record in a rigorous college preparatory program. These scholarships are provided in two distinct categories: one is the Dean’s scholarship, which grants $2,500 annually, and the other is the Presidential scholarship, awarding $6,000 annually.
- Co-op Scholarship: Co-op Scholarships are granted in the amount of $1,000 above the combined total of First-Year Merit Scholarships at the Presidential level. If you receive a Co-op Scholarship, it will supersede your Presidential Scholarship. This scholarship opportunity is available to students majoring in eligible fields such as accounting, biochemistry, business administration, chemistry, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, finance, human resource management, marketing, or software engineering.
For more details, see Transfer Students Scholarships for First-Year students.
Presidential Scholarships offered by the University of Texas Permian Basin
The University of Texas Permian Basin, situated in Austin, Texas, is a public university. Odessa, the city it calls home, boasts a rich heritage, having been the residence of former President George H. W. Bush and housing significant global corporations such as Chevron and Concho. This unique combination of history and corporate presence in Odessa provides a level of prestige and opportunity that sets it apart from many other cities. UT Permian Basin itself is a dynamic educational institution, offering an extensive array of over 75 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across five academic colleges.
Here are some of the Presidential Scholarships offered for undergraduate students at UT Permian Basin:
- Presidential and Presidential Plus Scholarship: The University offers two prestigious scholarship opportunities—the Presidential and Presidential Plus Scholarships—providing financial support ranging from $28,000 to $40,900 over four years. These 4-year scholarships are renewable and subject to certain requirements. To qualify, students must demonstrate highly competitive SAT or ACT scores and maintain a high school grade point average that places them in the top 5% of their graduating class. Additionally, recipients are required to either reside in student housing or meet exemption criteria. It’s worth noting that these scholarships have limited resources, and students need to complete a scholarship nomination form to be considered for these prestigious awards.
For more details, see UT Permian Basin Online Programs Scholarships
Presidential Scholarships offered by Wake Forest University
Wake Forest University, situated in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a private institution renowned for its exceptional academic standing and rigorous liberal arts curriculum. It holds the impressive ranking of #28 among the Best National Universities. Wake Forest University is particularly recognized for its commitment to the teacher-scholar model, emphasizing meaningful interactions between students and faculty members, and fostering a rich and engaging educational environment.
Here are some of the Presidential Scholarships offered for graduate and undergraduate students at WFU:
- Creative Exemplar Scholarships: This scholarship is offered as an addition to the Presidential Scholarships, to attract and retain exceptional talent. The Presidential Scholarship program is dedicated to attracting and granting scholarships to highly gifted students who will enhance and enrich our academic community. Given the growing competition for top talent, additional funding is crucial to complement the Presidential Scholarships and ensure that we can secure the most outstanding individuals. This program bestows scholarships upon four students, each receiving $350,000 in support.
For more details, see Funding Opportunities for Wake the Arts Initiative.
Presidential Scholarships offered by the New Jersey Institute of Technology
The New Jersey Institute of Technology is a public university situated in Trenton, New Jersey. It holds the ranking of #150 among the Best National Universities. The university’s curriculum is characterized by its multidisciplinary approach and a strong emphasis on computing-intensive education. This educational approach equips students with the technological expertise, business acumen, and leadership abilities essential for future CEOs and entrepreneurs to thrive.
Here are some of the Presidential Scholarships offered for graduate and undergraduate students at NJIT:
- NSPS and AAGS Scholarships: NJIT offers Presidential Scholarships to eligible full-time transfer students who are applying for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Engineering programs. If you apply for Category 2, the $2000 AAGS Graduate Fellowship Award, or Category 3, the $2000 AAGS Joseph F. Dracup Scholarship Award, you are required to have an AAGS Student Membership, which costs $1. The Presidential Scholarship was established with the goal of attracting students who may not have the opportunity to pursue their associate’s degree in applied science within their own state. Qualified recipients of this scholarship will receive a fee waiver that is typically imposed on non-New Jersey residents, thereby reducing their tuition to the rate applicable to New Jersey residents.
For more details, see Presidential Scholarships for Transfer Students by NJIT
Presidential Scholarships offered by the University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin, a public university situated in Austin, Texas, holds the #53 rank among the Best National Universities. Nestled in the vibrant city of Austin, known for its creativity and entrepreneurial energy, the university serves as a hub for exploring diverse opportunities for future artists, scientists, athletes, medical professionals, entrepreneurs, and engineers. The University of Texas at Austin delivers an outstanding return on investment, embodying the spirit of Texas as it drives economic and societal advancement while playing a pivotal role as a leading center of knowledge and innovation for our city, state, and nation.
Here are some of the Presidential Scholarships offered for graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Texas at Austin:
- Robert E. Boyer Endowed Presidential Scholarship for Natural Sciences: This scholarship is available to full-time students in the College of Natural Sciences who maintain a minimum GPA of 3.75 and have completed 45 credit hours at UT in residence.
- Betty Wilson and James Everett Key Endowed Presidential Scholarship: Eligible recipients for this scholarship are junior or senior students enrolled full-time in the College of Natural Sciences with a minimum GPA of 3.75 and have completed 45 credit hours at UT in residence.
- Natural Sciences 21st Century Endowed Presidential Scholarship: This scholarship is open to junior or senior students in the College of Natural Sciences who maintain a minimum GPA of 3.75 and have completed 45 credit hours at UT in residence.
- Rajaram Family Endowed Presidential Scholarship in the College of Natural Sciences: To qualify for this scholarship, students must be junior or senior students enrolled full-time in the College of Natural Sciences, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.75, complete 45 credit hours at UT in residence, and demonstrate financial need.
- Jack Roloson Endowed Presidential Scholarship in Natural Sciences: This scholarship is available to full-time students in the College of Natural Sciences who maintain a minimum GPA of 3.75 and have completed 45 credit hours at UT in residence. Preference is given to students who are part of the College of Natural Sciences Dean’s Scholars program and to graduates of Martin High School in Arlington, TX, graduates of a public high school in Arlington, TX, or simply members of the Dean’s Scholars.
- Kevin E. Underhill Memorial Endowed Presidential Scholarship: Eligible recipients for this scholarship are junior or senior students enrolled full-time in the College of Natural Sciences with a minimum GPA of 3.75 and have completed 45 credit hours at UT in residence.
- James W. Vick Endowed Presidential Scholarship in Natural Sciences: This scholarship is available to junior or senior students in the College of Natural Sciences who maintain a minimum GPA of 3.75 and have completed 45 credit hours at UT in residence.
For more details, see Health Profession Scholarships by UT Austin
Presidential Scholarships offered by Mississippi State University
Mississippi State University, situated in Jackson, Mississippi, is a distinguished public university known for its commitment to providing students with exceptional value in higher education. It holds the esteemed title of the state’s “Best Value College,” a recognition that highlights its dedication to offering students an excellent return on their educational investment. Mississippi State University is proud to produce graduates who consistently earn higher average starting salaries compared to their counterparts from other state colleges and universities. This distinction underscores the university’s commitment to delivering not only quality education but also tangible career opportunities and financial benefits to its students.
The Presidential Scholarships at Mississippi State University are highly prestigious awards aimed at incoming freshmen. These scholarships hold a significant value, totaling approximately $75,000 over the course of four years of undergraduate study. The coverage includes tuition and housing expenses for the entirety of the four-year period, providing students with a comprehensive financial support package. In addition to covering tuition and housing, the scholarship allocates $6,000 for study-abroad opportunities, enabling recipients to explore international educational experiences. Furthermore, it offers $4,000 dedicated to undergraduate research, encouraging academic and intellectual exploration.
To be eligible for the Presidential Scholarship, students must meet specific criteria. They are required to achieve a minimum ACT score of 30 (or an SAT score of 1390) and maintain a high school scholarship GPA of 3.75 or higher. In addition to academic excellence, candidates should have demonstrated exceptional leadership in both their high school and community activities.
Non-resident students may also benefit from this scholarship by receiving financial aid to cover up to 100% of the out-of-state portion of tuition costs, making it an attractive option for students from various geographical backgrounds.
It’s important to note that the Presidential Scholarship replaces the Academic Excellence and Colvard Future Leader Scholarships, streamlining financial support for eligible students. Additionally, the housing scholarship component fully covers the cost of double-occupancy on-campus residence hall space for up to four years, ensuring that scholars have a comfortable and supportive living environment throughout their undergraduate journey
For more information, see Presidential Scholarships at MSU
How much do the Presidential Scholarships offer?
Presidential Scholarships are highly prestigious and are often awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership qualities, and other outstanding characteristics. The amount offered by Presidential Scholarships can vary significantly depending on the institution. Typically, these awards range from $2,500 to full tuition coverage for four years. For example, at some universities, the Presidential Scholarship might offer up to $48,000 in total or $12,000 per year for students with a high cumulative GPA. For instance, the University of Colorado Boulder offers a Presidential Scholarship with an amount of $15,000 per year for the first two years and then $12,500 per year for the next two years, totaling $55,000. , and at Villanova University, the Presidential Scholarship is a comprehensive award covering full tuition, room, board, general fees, and the cost of textbooks for eight consecutive semesters.
Are GRE scores required for a Presidential Scholarship?
Undergraduate Presidential Scholarships typically do not require GRE scores, as they are awarded to high school seniors or current undergraduates based on criteria like academic performance, leadership, and community engagement. However, the GRE is more commonly a prerequisite for graduate Presidential Scholarships. These prestigious Presidential Scholarships are merit-based and may necessitate a strong GPA, recommendation letters, essays, and proof of involvement in extracurricular activities or leadership positions. Applicants interested in a Presidential Scholarship must review the specific criteria set by the awarding institution.
Are Presidential Scholarships available to transfer students?
Presidential Scholarships are generally aimed at incoming freshmen and high school seniors, reflecting their primary focus on recognizing and rewarding emerging academic talent at the outset of their undergraduate journey. For transfer students, the opportunities to secure such scholarships are notably limited, as these prestigious awards are less commonly available to those transitioning from other post-secondary institutions. Nevertheless, transfer students with an interest in obtaining a Presidential Scholarship, or awards of a similar caliber, should undertake thorough research into the specific policies and offerings of each prospective university. This can be effectively accomplished by exploring the financial aid section of the university’s website, directly engaging with the admissions or financial aid office for personalized advice, and carefully examining the eligibility criteria for scholarships. This approach will yield clearer insights into the feasibility of obtaining such scholarships as a transfer student, including an understanding of the unique application processes and requirements involved.