A merit scholarship is a financial award that students receive based on their academic success in high school. Merit scholarships are not only limited to a student's grades, but also consider factors such as leadership roles, ACT and/or SAT scores, extracurricular activities and school or community involvement.

Types of Merit Scholarships:

Academic: 

Most merit scholarships reward academic talent, so if you excel in this area, you’re in luck. Academic merit scholarships typically require a minimum GPA and/or certain test scores. Did you ace your SAT/ACT? Are you on track to be a Class Valedictorian? Are you the first in your family to attend college? These are some examples of merit scholarships that you may qualify for. Some schools will automatically award you a merit scholarship while others will require you to complete a separate application.

Athletics: 

Private organizations and colleges are always looking to recognize students for the skill and dedication they apply to their sport. Typically, the colleges you’re applying to will offer athletic scholarships if you plan on playing at the collegiate level. For opportunities outside of your prospective institution, reach out to your coaches, local organizations, and national databases. 

Arts: 

There are thousands of scholarships designed to reward artistic talent. If you’re a musician, artist, or actor, look for scholarships in your field! These scholarships typically require a portfolio, so make sure you have enough time to complete it before the application deadline. 

Special interest: 

The main objective of private scholarship organizations is to reward talent—any talent regardless of how niche it may be. You’d be surprised by how many scholarships there are for particular interests like duck calling and veganism. Take stock of your interests and hobbies, and find ways to get paid for them! 

Types of Merit Scholarships

What does "Stacking a Scholarship Mean?"