Are you ready to pursue your passion debt-free? Explore top universities offering full ride scholarships across diverse fields. Find tuition & fees covered, unlock your potential, and achieve academic freedom!

Understanding a Full-Ride Scholarship

Securing a scholarship that covers tuition and other essential expenses is the ultimate goal for many students. Enter the full-ride scholarship—an even more remarkable opportunity. These unique scholarships go beyond tuition, encompassing additional costs like room and board, books, travel, and supplies.

This translates to a coverage exceeding $200,000 at private institutions for these scholarships’ various expenditures. In contrast to financial aid, which hinges on what students and their families can afford, full-ride scholarships are purely merit-based.

The concept behind these scholarships is straightforward; esteemed institutions identify certain students as exceptional—so exceptional that they want the decision to attend their school to be a clear choice. Consequently, they go above and beyond to entice these students, ensuring a compelling partnership for the next four years.

SEE ALSO: University of Salford Global Gold Excellence Scholarship, 2024–25, United Kingdom

Types of Institutions Offering Full-Tuition Scholarships

Perusing the list of institutions below, you’ll likely recognize many names. While the schools mentioned are generally of high quality, it’s crucial to note that, with a few exceptions, top-ranked institutions in the country don’t typically grant full-ride scholarships. But why is that?

Full-ride scholarships serve as enticing offers designed to attract outstanding and highly sought-after students with numerous options. Essentially, these scholarships communicate that you stand out significantly within the student body. Merit-based scholarships reflect your exceptional efforts or achievements in grades, extracurricular activities, and leadership.

In the most competitive educational institutions, full rides are exceptionally rare. Since nearly all applicants to these schools are high achievers across various domains, pinpointing the true standouts becomes a formidable task.

Are These Scholarships Available for International Students?

Regrettably, most scholarships, regardless of type, are primarily intended for US citizens or individuals residing in the United States. While the article highlights some scholarships accessible to international students, it is not an exhaustive list.

Suppose you are an international student and wish to explore a specific full-ride scholarship. In that case, we advise conducting online research to check if the scholarship explicitly mentions eligibility for international students. In cases where the information is not readily available online, contacting the scholarship or admissions office of the respective school is recommended for inquiries about scholarships designated for international students.

Leading National Universities Offering Full-Ride Scholarships

US News ranks The following institutions among the top 50 national universities in the United States. Consider this compilation as an exception to the norm, as these prestigious universities not only provide standard need-based scholarships but also offer merit-based scholarships. The ranking order is based on their national ranking.

1. University of Chicago (Chicago, Illinois)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Covers tuition, fees, room and board, and provides a $10,000 enrichment fund for junior and senior years.

– Eligible for international students.

2. Duke University (Durham, North Carolina)

– Robertson Scholars Leadership Program

– Covers full tuition, fees, and room and board.

– Includes funding for up to three domestic summer experiences.

– Awarded to students demonstrating purposeful leadership, intellectual curiosity, character strength, and collaborative spirit.

3. Vanderbilt University (Nashville, Tennessee)

– Ingram Scholarship Program

– Provides full tuition and stipends for summer projects.

– Selection criteria include commitment to community service, personal character strength, and leadership potential.

– Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship

– Offers full tuition plus a one-time stipend for a summer study abroad or research experience.

– Based on academic achievement, intellectual promise, leadership, and contributions beyond the classroom.

4. University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, Indiana)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Covers full tuition and fees with an additional $12,000 in enrichment funds.

– Each recipient is paired with a professional mentor from the faculty.

– Nominated by the admissions office based on leadership, perseverance, scholarship, service, and innovation.

– Five scholarships are awarded annually.

5. Washington University in St. Louis (St. Louis, Missouri)

– John B. Ervin Scholars Program

– Covers full tuition and provides a $2,500 annual stipend.

– Criteria include academic excellence, initiative, leadership, community service, commitment to historically underprivileged populations, and perseverance through challenges.

– Annika Rodriguez Scholars Program

– Full tuition coverage with a $2,500 annual stipend.

– Based on academic achievement, commitment to serving underprivileged populations, ability to unite diverse groups, application responses, an essay, and recommendations.

– Open to international students.

– Danforth Scholars Program

– Offers full or partial tuition.

– Requires a separate application and an additional letter of recommendation.

6. Emory University (Atlanta, Georgia)

– Emory Scholars Program

– Full tuition coverage with enrichment stipends.

– Exclusive to top students at Emory.

The application deadline is November 15.

7. University of California, Los Angeles (Los Angeles, California)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage and an enrichment fund of up to $12,000.

– Nominated by UCLA based on qualities like leadership, scholarship, community service, and innovation.

– Up to 10 scholarships awarded annually.

8. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, California)

– Mork Family Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage with a $5,000 stipend.

– Finalists selected for interviews based on academic achievement, talent, perseverance, innovation, involvement, and leadership.

– Up to 10 scholarships awarded each year.

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage with a $5,000 annual enrichment fund.

– Selected by USC faculty for interviews based on academic achievement, talent, perseverance, innovation, involvement, and leadership.

– Five scholarships are awarded annually.

9. Northeastern University (Boston, Massachusetts)

– Trustee Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage.

– Recipients’ SAT and ACT scores rank in the top 1-2% nationally.

– Selection based on academic achievement, talent, perseverance, innovation, involvement, and leadership.

– Approximately 100 scholarships awarded annually.

– International students eligible.

10. University of Virginia (Charlottesville, Virginia)

– Jefferson Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, books, enrichment program, and personal expenses covered.

– Nominated by the school (must attend an eligible school).

– A maximum of 36 scholarships awarded each year.

11. Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem, North Carolina)

– Nancy Susan Reynolds Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage with a stipend.

– Selection based on scholarship, achievement, and personal interviews.

– Application deadline is December 1.

12. Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, Georgia)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, books, and personal expenses covered.

– Enrichment stipend of up to $15,000.

– Selection based on educational achievements, academic motivation, maturity, and character.

– Maximum of five scholarships awarded each year.

13. University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, Michigan)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full cost of attendance covered along with up to $10,000 in enrichment funds.

– Selection based on academic achievement, exceptional talent, leadership, and service/community involvement.

14. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Chapel Hill, North Carolina)

– Morehead-Cain Scholars

– Full coverage of tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, laptop, supplies, and funding for research and summer opportunities.

– Open to students from designated nominating schools globally.

15. Duke University (Durham, North Carolina)

– Robertson Scholars Leadership Program

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, and funding for up to three domestic summer experiences.

– Awarded to students showing purposeful leadership, intellectual curiosity, strength of character, and collaborative spirit.

16. Boston College (Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts)

– Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program

– Full tuition coverage with summer opportunities.

– About 15 awards given annually.

– Early action application deadline is November 1.

17. College of William and Mary (Williamsburg, Virginia)

– College of William and Mary Stamps 1693 Scholarship

– Full in-state tuition, fees, room and board, plus $5,000 for independent projects.

– Out-of-state students eligible with a cost difference.

– All applicants considered for scholarships; semifinalists contacted for additional materials.

18. College of William and Mary (Williamsburg, Virginia)

– William and Mary Scholars

– Full coverage for in-state tuition and fees.

– Scholarships for academically strong applicants who’ve overcome adversity and/or contribute to campus diversity.

– All college applicants considered.

19. Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, Georgia)

– Stamps President’s Scholars Program

– Full coverage for tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, a laptop, and $15,000 in enrichment funding.

– Awarded to the top 1% of Georgia Tech students with demonstrated leadership and service.

– Consideration by the early application deadline, October 15.

20. University of Rochester (Rochester, New York)

– Alan and Jane Handler Endowed Scholarship

– Merit- and need-based aid covering full tuition, mentoring, and up to $5,000 for enrichment.

– Selection based on financial need, academic excellence, leadership, and overcoming challenges.

21. Boston University (Boston, Massachusetts)

– Trustee Scholarship

– Full tuition and fees covered.

– Requires exceptional academic credentials and intellectual/creative adventurousness.

– Application deadline is December 1, involving the common application, Trustee Scholarship prompts, and a supplemental essay.

– Approximately 20 students selected annually.

22. Tulane University (New Orleans, Louisiana)

– Deans’ Honor Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage.

– Selection based on general achievements and a creative project.

– Maximum of 75 scholarships awarded annually.

– Submission deadline is December 5.

– Previous winners typically had an ACT score greater than 31 or an SAT score greater than 1400.

23. Paul Tulane Award

– Full tuition coverage.

– Selection based on general achievement and additional writing components.

– Maximum of 50 scholarships awarded annually.

– Application deadline is December 5.

– Previous winners typically had an ACT score greater than 31 or an SAT score greater than 1400.

24. Stamps Scholarship

– Full cost of attendance covered along with additional enrichment funding.

– Nominated from applicants for the Deans’ Honor Scholarship or the Paul Tulane Award.

– Selection based on academics, leadership, perseverance, and innovation.

– Approximately five scholarships awarded annually.

25. University of Wisconsin (Madison, Wisconsin)

– Chancellor’s Scholarship Program

– Full-tuition scholarship with a $400 book stipend every semester.

– Requires maintaining a 3.0 GPA and full-time student status.

– Eligibility requirements include race/ethnicity and socioeconomic background.

– Application required.

26. American University (Washington, DC)

– Frederick Douglass Scholarship Program

– Full tuition coverage plus funds for fees, room and board, and books.

– Competitive applicants typically require a 3.8 unweighted GPA or a 4.0 weighted GPA.

– ACT/SAT scores are optional, with preference for first-generation college students.

– Award notifications begin April 1.

27. Barry University (Miami Shores, Florida)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full coverage for tuition, room and board, books, and transportation.

– $6,000 additional funding for study abroad or other learning experiences.

– Requires a GPA of 3.5 or above and active involvement in community service and leadership.

– Application deadline is February 1.

28. The Catholic University of America (Washington, DC)

– Archdiocesan Scholarship

– Full-tuition coverage.

– Requires an unweighted GPA of 3.8 or above, high SAT/ACT scores, and top-class ranking.

– Open to all undergraduate applicants, including international students.

 

29. Elizabethtown College (Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage, $6,000 enrichment funds, and a personal mentor.

– Awarded to high academic achievers demonstrating leadership, perseverance, scholarship, service, and innovation.

– Selected by the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation.

– Five awards given annually, application deadline is February 1.

30. Fordham University (New York, New York)

– Presidential Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage plus room, renewable for all four years.

– Typically awarded to students ranked in the top 1-2% of their high school classes.

– Award notifications around April 1 each year.

 

31. Semifinalist Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage.

– Eligible for semifinalists or finalists in National Merit or National Hispanic Recognition Scholarship Programs with an A average, in the top 2-3% of admitted students.

32. The George Washington University (Washington, DC)

– Stephen Joel Trachtenberg Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, and a book allowance.

– Exclusive to residents of Washington, DC, who attended an accredited high school in the area and are applying for financial aid.

33. Northeastern University (Boston, Massachusetts)

– Torch Scholars Program

– Coverage for full tuition, fees, and room and board for 10 first-generation college students.

– Includes a summer immersion program.

– Nomination required by a non-family member who knows the student well.

34. Providence College (Providence, Rhode Island)

– Roddy Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, and room and board.

– Awarded based on academic achievement in high school.

– No separate application required, limited to students aspiring to have a medical career.

35. Rollins College (Winter Park, Florida)

– Alfond Scholars Program

– Up to 10 full-ride scholarships awarded annually to incoming freshmen to the College of Liberal Arts.

– Covers full tuition, room, and board.

– Renewable for up to four years.

36. Stevens Institute of Technology (Hoboken, New Jersey)

– The Ann P. Neupauer Scholarship

– Highly prestigious scholarship covering full tuition.

– Renewable for four years with a GPA maintenance of 3.2 or better and meeting specific academic requirements.

37. Stevenson University (Stevenson, Maryland)

– Presidential Fellowship

– Full tuition coverage, renewable for all four years of college.

– Open to all freshman applicants, with a submission deadline of November 1.

38. St. Lawrence University (Canton, New York)

– Trustee Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage for four years.

– Awarded to the top male and female students entering their first year based on academic excellence, character, and leadership.

39. Syracuse University (Syracuse, New York)

– Coronat Scholars

– Full tuition, admission to the honors program, and potential additional funding for study abroad programs.

– Awarded to freshmen pursuing a liberal arts major by invitation only through selection by the College of Arts and Sciences.

40. Haudenosaunee Scholarships

– Available for certified citizens of Haudenosaunee nations.

– Promise Scholarship requires residency in a Haudenosaunee territory for at least four years prior to enrollment.

– Both programs cover full tuition and mandatory fees for freshmen or transfer students.

41. University at Buffalo (Buffalo, New York)

– Millonzi Distinguished Honors Scholarship

– Annual full-ride scholarship covering tuition and fees for admitted freshman honors students in the creative or performing arts.

– Eligibility criteria include an unweighted high school average of 90, a 1300 SAT score or 27 ACT score, along with a scholarship application, interview, and audition or portfolio submission.

42. University of Delaware (Newark, Delaware)

– Eugene du Pont Memorial Scholars

– Full tuition, room and board, and a $2,500 enrichment stipend for academic activities, such as study abroad.

– Invitation-only application process with invitations sent out in January each year.

43. University of Maryland, College Park (College Park, Maryland)

– Banneker/Key Scholars Program

– Full tuition, room and board, and books scholarship.

– Invitation-only application process by a selection committee, with additional funding of up to $5,000 for research, travel, study abroad, and internships.

– Three scholarships awarded annually.

44. University of Miami (Coral Gables, Florida)

– Hammond Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage based on academic excellence and demonstrated passion for achieving personal goals.

45. Stamps Scholarship

– University of Miami Stamps Scholars receive full tuition, fees, room and board, textbooks, a computer allowance, and up to $12,000 in enrichment funds.

– All applicants to the university are considered for Stamps Scholarships.

46. George W. Jenkins Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, university health insurance, and a laptop allowance.

– Nomination required by high school counselors, based on financial need, academic merit, and an essay on overcoming adversity.

47. Stevens Institute of Technology (Hoboken, New Jersey)

– Isaac Bashevis Singer Scholarship

– Full tuition scholarship.

– Finalists nominated by the admission committee; no separate application process.

– Eligibility requires applying through Early Action or Early Decision 1, and international students are eligible.

– Marta S. and L. Austin Weeks Scholarship

– Full tuition scholarship.

– Eligibility requires applying through Early Action or Early Decision 1.

48. University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)

– Chancellor’s Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, $500 stipend for books, and $2,000 for study abroad or research.

– Nomination by the scholarship selection committee required.

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, personal and academic allowance, and up to $17,400 in enrichment funds.

– Offered to five incoming freshmen from Pennsylvania.

– Diversity Scholarships

– Four named scholarships in engineering, arts and sciences, business, and nursing for underrepresented groups.

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, $500 book award, and $2,000 scholarship for research or study abroad.

– Nordenberg Leadership Scholars Program

– Full tuition, international experience, and assistance securing internships throughout college.

– Awarded to five outstanding graduates from Pennsylvania high schools.

49. Villanova University (Villanova, Pennsylvania)

– Presidential Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, and cost of textbooks for four years.

– Nomination required by high school principal or counselor.

– St. Martin de Porres Scholarship

– Full cost of tuition and general fees.

– Eligibility for students from underrepresented groups, including racial and ethnic populations, economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and students whose parents have not graduated from college.

– Anthony Randazzo Endowed Presidential Scholarship

– Eligible for incoming freshmen who are African American/Black, have a strong background in community service/civic leadership, demonstrate financial need, and reside in the city of Philadelphia.

– Covers tuition, room and board, fees, and textbook costs for up to eight semesters.

50. Carthage College (Kenosha, Wisconsin)

– Lincoln Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage along with room and board.

– Applicants must complete the separate Presidential Scholarship application (usually available in October) and write a personal statement.

– Three scholarships are awarded annually.

– Clausen Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage.

– Applicants must complete the separate Presidential Scholarship application and write a personal statement.

– Three scholarships are awarded each year.

– Ruud Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage.

– Applicants must complete the separate Presidential Scholarship application and write a personal statement.

– Three scholarships are awarded annually.

51. Drake University (Des Moines, Iowa)

– National Alumni Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, and room and board coverage.

– Eligibility requires ACT scores of at least 31 or SAT scores of at least 1430, top 5% high school class rank, and a GPA of 3.8 or above.

– A maximum of six scholarships are awarded annually, with a submission deadline of December 1.

52. Indiana University Bloomington (Bloomington, Indiana)

– Wells Scholars Program

– Full cost of attendance coverage for four years.

– Potential recipients can be nominated by high schools, the admissions office, or an IU faculty member.

– Each year, 18-22 students receive the award.

53. Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago, Illinois)

– Duchossois Leadership Scholars Program

– Full tuition, room and board, summer educational experiences, fall retreat, and mentoring.

– Eligibility requires a GPA of at least 3.5 and standardized test scores in the top 10% nationally.

– Ineligibility for students from households with income levels over $200,000.

– Application deadline is December 1.

54. Miami University (Oxford, Ohio)

– University Merit Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage.

– Eligibility requires SAT scores of at least 1480 or ACT scores of at least 33, a 3.5 GPA or higher, and a rigorous academic course load.

– Priority consideration for all scholarships and honors programs given to students applying for university admission by December 1.

55. Michigan State University (East Lansing, Michigan)

– Alumni Distinguished Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board coverage, and a $1,000 annual stipend.

– Eligible students are invited to take a scholarship examination and apply.

– Deadline: November 1, with a maximum of 15 awards given annually.

– Distinguished Freshman Scholarship

– Full tuition and fees coverage.

– Awarded to runners-up of the Alumni Distinguished Scholarship.

– 20 scholarships are awarded to qualified students each year.

56. Oberlin College (Oberlin, Ohio)

– Conservatory Dean’s Awards

– Covers 100% of demonstrated need for conservatory and double-degree students.

– Nearly 100% of students in these programs receive additional scholarship funding.

– While not a traditional full-ride scholarship, the combined funding can equate to a full ride.

57. The Ohio State University (Columbus, Ohio)

– Eminence Fellows Scholarship

– Full tuition plus a $3,000 enrichment fund.

– Recipients are usually in the top 3% of their high school classes with an ACT score of 34+ or SAT score of 1520+.

– Morrill Scholarship Program

– Targets academically strong applicants contributing to diversity on campus.

– Distinction awards cover the full cost of attendance, Prominence awards cover full tuition, and Excellence awards cover in-state tuition.

58. Purdue University (West Lafayette, Indiana)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full tuition plus $10,000 for enrichment activities.

– Selection based on leadership, academics, extracurricular activities, and personal history.

– Application is by invitation only; applicants must apply for admission to Purdue by November

59. University of Illinois (Champaign, Illinois)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Covers the total cost of attendance and offers an additional fund for enrichment activities.

– About five scholarships are awarded each year.

– James Hunter Anthony & Gerald E. Blackshear Endowment

– Provides full tuition and fees for up to four years, contingent on maintaining a 3.0 GPA.

– Eligible only for students who graduated from an Illinois high school.

Southern Schools

60. Agnes Scott College (Decatur, Georgia)

– Marvin B. Perry Presidential Scholarships

– Full tuition coverage along with room and board.

– Promising

SEE ALSO: Jumpstart Your Future! Best Scholarships for High School Juniors 2024

61. Goizueta Foundation Scholarships

– Full tuition and room and board coverage.

– Offered to one student annually, with preference for Hispanic/Latina women demonstrating academic excellence and financial need.

– Applicants must reside in the United States, and U.S. citizenship is not required.

62. Birmingham-Southern College (Birmingham, Alabama)

– Distinguished Scholars Award

– Full tuition coverage.

– Eligible students receive invitations to apply.

– Selection based on grades, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, interviews, and an essay.

63. Clemson University (Clemson, South Carolina)

– National Scholars Program

– Full tuition, fee coverage, and an allowance for room, board, supplies, and summer group study abroad experiences.

– Selection based on outstanding academic achievement, leadership, service, and extracurricular activities.

64. Davidson College (Davidson, North Carolina)

– John M. Belk Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board coverage, and up to $6,000 in special study stipends.

– Awarded for exceptional promise in academics, character, leadership, and service.

– Students must be nominated by a counselor or administrator, with a maximum of eight awards annually.

– Lowell L. Bryan Scholarship

– Full tuition and fees coverage for one female and one male athlete in each freshman class.

– Awarded to students contributing significantly to sports, academics, and co-curricular life at Davidson.

– Charles Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, book allowance, travel expenses, and personal expenses.

– Eligible students are graduates of Chicago public high schools, with preference for students of color, especially Hispanic/Latinx students.

– Nominated by a counselor or administrator, with a maximum of three awards annually.

65. Furman University (Greenville, South Carolina)

– James B. Duke Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage and stipends of up to $5,000 for summer study experiences.

– Selection based on exceptional academic achievement and personal accomplishment.

66. Hendrix College (Conway, Arkansas)

– Hays Memorial Scholarship

– Full tuition, mandatory fees, residence hall room, and unlimited board plan coverage.

– Eligibility requires a 3.6 GPA and a 32 ACT or 1410 SAT score.

– Early action application to the college and a separate scholarship application by February 1.

– Hendrix College Scholarship

– Ranges from $18,000 to full tuition.

– Winners selected based on GPA, test scores, recommendations, leadership experience, and extracurricular activities.

– All admitted students automatically considered for the scholarship.

67. Liberty University

– Valedictorian/Salutatorian Scholarship

– Full tuition per year for up to four consecutive academic years.

– Qualifications include graduating first or second in the class, an unweighted GPA of 3.5, and a 1350 SAT/29 ACT score at minimum.

– National Merit Scholarship

– 100% tuition coverage for four consecutive years for commended, semi-finalist, or finalist National Merit program participants.

– Finalists also receive room and board coverage.

68. Louisiana State University (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full tuition and up to $14,000 for enrichment activities.

– Eligibility includes a 3.5 GPA or higher and SAT scores of 1440+ or ACT scores of 33+.

– Students are invited to apply.

69. Mercer University (Macon, Georgia)

– Stamps Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, books, and up to $16,000 in enrichment funds.

– Awarded to the highest achievers in the entering freshman class.

– To be considered, students must apply to Mercer by October 15, with a maximum of five awards annually.

70. North Carolina A&T State University (Greensboro, North Carolina)

– National Alumni Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, and books coverage.

– Eligibility requires a minimum 3.5 GPA and SAT scores of 1100 or above or ACT scores of 22 or above.

– Submission of a one-page autobiography and three letters of recommendation is necessary.

71. Lewis and Elizabeth Dowdy Scholarship

– Full tuition, room, and board coverage.

– Eligibility criteria: 3.75 GPA, SAT scores of 1270 or above, or ACT scores of 27 or above.

– Requirements include a one-page essay and two letters of recommendation.

72. North Carolina State University (Raleigh, North Carolina)

– Park Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, travel, a laptop, and personal expenses coverage.

– Admission to the University Scholars Program.

– Selection based on academic merit, exemplary character, exceptional potential for leadership, and promise for contributions to the betterment of the human condition.

73. Oglethorpe University (Atlanta, Georgia)

– Civic & Service Engagement Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage for two students deeply engaged in community service.

– Selection based on activities during Scholarship Weekend. By invitation only.

– James Edward Oglethorpe Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage for up to four recipients.

– Determined by a scholarship competition during Scholarship Weekend. By invitation only.

– OU Theatre Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage for two students interested in the study of theater.

– Recipients selected based on Scholarship Weekend activities. By invitation only.

74. Rhodes College (Memphis, Tennessee)

– Bellingrath Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage.

– Awarded to one applicant each year.

75. Saint Louis University (Saint Louis, Missouri)

– Presidential Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage.

– Eligibility criteria: GPA of at least 3.85 (weighted or unweighted), SAT scores of at least 1390, or ACT scores of 30.

– Additional Presidential Scholarship application is required by December 1.

76. Salem College (Winston-Salem, North Carolina)

– Robert E. Elberson Scholarship

– Full tuition, room and board, and a semester of study abroad in England coverage.

– Only one is awarded each year.

– Scholarship application by invitation only. Apply to the school by January 1.

– Chatham/Davis/Weyand/Womble/Whitaker Scholarships

– Full tuition coverage for 10-15 students.

– Selection based on academic performance, leadership, responsibility, concern for others, initiative, motivation, creativity, resourcefulness, and vigor.

– Finalists invited to Scholarship Weekend to compete.

– John Preston Davis Art Full-Tuition Scholarship

– Full-tuition coverage for already accepted studio art, art history, or design students.

– Application requirements: essay and recommendation.

– Finalists interviewed at Scholarship Weekend.

77. Southern Methodist University (Dallas, Texas)

– President’s Scholars Program

– Full tuition and fees coverage, plus one summer and one academic-year program abroad.

– Additional award for room and board under certain conditions.

– Finalists invited to interview, typically with high SAT/ACT scores, challenging high school curriculum, top 10% high school class ranking, and demonstrated community involvement.

– Apply to the school by January 15 for consideration; no additional application for the scholarship is required.

78. Texas Christian University (Fort Worth, Texas)

– Chancellor’s Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage for the most academically accomplished applicants.

– Average test scores among current Chancellor’s Scholars: 2150 on the old SAT and 33 on the ACT.

– Recipients are usually in the top 3% of their graduating high school classes.

– In the 2016-17 school year, 54 scholars were selected from over 500 finalists.

79. University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, Alabama)

– Academic Elite Scholarship

– Two levels of coverage.

– First level: Seven scholars receive full tuition, an $8,500 yearly stipend, a $2,000 book scholarship, and one year of on-campus housing.

– Second level: One top scholar receives full tuition, an $8,500 stipend for the first year, an $18,500 stipend for years two through four, a $5,000 study abroad stipend, a $2,000 book scholarship, and one year of on-campus housing.

– Eligibility criteria: 3.8 GPA, 32 ACT, or 1450 SAT scores.

– Apply for the fellowship.

80. University of Georgia (Athens, Georgia)

– Foundation Fellowship

– Full cost of attendance coverage, study abroad experiences, mentoring, and research and conference grants.

– Application due in early November.

– Eligibility criteria: Unweighted GPA of at least 3.9, SAT score of 1470, or ACT score of 32.

– Ramsey Honors Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage, a modest stipend, mentoring, and a $3,000 travel-study grant.

– Finalists for the Foundation Fellowship who do not receive the fellowship are guaranteed a Ramsey Honors Scholarship.

– Application due in early November.

– Eligibility criteria: Unweighted GPA of at least 3.9, SAT score of 1470, or ACT score of 32.

81. University of Houston (Houston, Texas)

– Tier One Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, two years of room and board, research stipend, study abroad, Honors College membership, and priority class registration.

– Complete the scholarship application and application to UH by mid-November.

82. University of Kentucky (Lexington, Kentucky)

– Otis A. Singletary Scholarship

– Full tuition, room and board coverage.

– Competitive scholarship supplement due by December 1.

– Eligibility criteria: 33 ACT score or 1450 SAT score, and unweighted GPA of at least 3.8.

– Presidential Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage.

– Competitive scholarship supplement due by December 1.

– Eligibility criteria: 31 ACT score or 1390 SAT score, and minimum unweighted 3.5 GPA.

83. University of Louisville (Louisville, Kentucky)

– Brown Fellows Program

– Full tuition and housing coverage, book allowance, and up to $6,000 in enrichment funds.

– Selection based on academics, well-roundedness, and leadership potential.

– Submit supplementary materials, including an additional essay.

– Eligibility criteria: At least a 31 on the ACT, a 1390 on the SAT, and a minimum 3.5 GPA.

– 10 scholarships awarded each year.

84. University of Mississippi (Oxford, Mississippi)

– Stamps Scholarship and the University of Mississippi Chancellor’s Scholar Program

– Full cost of attendance coverage and a $12,000 enrichment stipend.

– Selection based on academic achievement, leadership, and service.

– Submit a Special Programs and Scholarships Application and the school application.

85. University of North Carolina, Charlotte (Charlotte, North Carolina)

– Levine Scholars Program

– Full tuition, fees, room and board coverage, a grant for a community service project, and four summer experiences.

– Nomination by high school counselors required to apply.

86. University of Richmond (Richmond, Virginia)

– Richmond Scholars

– Full tuition, room and board coverage, faculty mentoring, $3,000 in enrichment funds, priority course registration, and tickets for cultural events at the Modlin Center for the Arts.

– Selection based on outstanding and engaged scholarship, commitment to creating and discovering new knowledge, leadership skills, service, excitement about learning from different types of people, and exceptional artistic talent.

– All applicants to the university are considered for the scholarship if they apply by December 1

– A maximum of 25 awards are given out each year.

87. University of Texas at Austin (Austin, Texas)

– Forty Acres Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage and stipends for living, books, and enrichment activities.

– Awarded to students excelling academically and engaging in leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and community service.

– Fill out and submit a supplemental scholarship application by December 1 to apply.

88. University of Texas at Dallas (Dallas, Texas)

– Eugene McDermott Scholars Program

– Full tuition and fees, $1,400 monthly stipend for housing and living expenses, $1,000 annual book stipend, up to $12,000 for an international experience, up to $3,000 for a professional development experience, paid trips with other scholarship winners, and paid travel home.

– Selection based on exceptional academic performance, community volunteerism, leadership, broad interests in science, literature, and the arts, and social skills.

– Applicants must have a 1490 or higher on the SAT or a 33 or higher on the ACT.

– Most students are also in the top 5% of their high school classes.

89. Washington and Lee University (Lexington, Virginia)

– Johnson Scholarship

– Full tuition and room and board coverage, $7,000 for summer experiences.

– Selection based on academic and personal accomplishments, essays, and performance at an in-person scholarship competition (travel expenses paid for all finalists).

– Awarded to about 10% of each year’s incoming class.

90. Wofford College (Spartanburg, South Carolina)

– The Richardson Family Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board coverage, monthly stipend for books and miscellaneous expenses, a laptop, summer internships (one overseas), and a January travel experience.

91. Lewis and Clark College (Portland, Oregon)

– Barbara Hirschi Neely Scholarship

– Full tuition and fees, plus a $2,000 enrichment stipend.

– Selection based on academic achievement and distinctive personal accomplishment.

– Special preference for students planning to study the sciences or interested in intercultural and international issues.

– Up to five Neely Scholarships offered each year.

92. Loyola Marymount University (Los Angeles, California)

– Arrupe Scholarship

– For international students, offers awards from $12,500 annually to full tuition.

– Trustee Scholarship

– Full tuition coverage, plus room and board.

– All freshman applicants considered, with 10 scholars selected each year.

– Finalists invited to attend Scholars Weekend for on-campus interviews in late January and early February.

93. Soka University of America (Aliso Viejo, California)

– Global Merit Scholarship

– Full tuition, fees, room and board, transportation, books, supplies, and personal expenses covered.

– Winners must maintain a 3.0 GPA to retain the scholarship.

94. University of Hawai’i (Honolulu, Hawaii)

– Regents Scholarship

– Full tuition, a $4,000 annual stipend, and a $2,000 travel grant.

– Applicants should have a high school GPA of at least 3.5, scores of at least 29 on the ACT or 1340 on the SAT, and remarkable extracurricular involvement.

– 20 scholarships awarded to incoming freshmen each year.

To increase your chances of qualifying for a full-ride scholarship, consider the following tips:

1. Maintain a High GPA: Aim for a GPA above the minimum requirement, and focus on challenging yourself with advanced courses.

2. Excel in Standardized Tests: Achieve high scores on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Some scholarships may have specific score requirements.

3. Engage in Extracurricular Activities: Demonstrate leadership, involvement, and achievement in extracurricular activities, clubs, sports, or community service.

4. Build a Strong Resume: Showcase your accomplishments, awards, and experiences to highlight your skills and contributions.

5. Seek Leadership Roles: Participate in leadership roles within your school, community, or extracurricular activities.

6. Cultivate Relationships with Teachers: Request strong letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well and can attest to your academic abilities and character.

7. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Write a thoughtful, personal statement that reflects your goals, character, and unique qualities. Tailor it to each scholarship application.

8. Demonstrate Financial Need (if applicable): Some scholarships are need-based, so be prepared to provide information about your family’s financial situation.

9. Research and Apply Early: Identify scholarships that align with your strengths and interests. Start the application process early to meet deadlines.

10. Prepare for Interviews (if required): Some scholarships may involve interviews. Practice common interview questions to articulate your achievements and goals confidently.

Conclusion on Full Ride Scholarships

The opportunity to pursue a higher education with a full-ride scholarship is a remarkable avenue for ambitious and talented students. The range and diversity of institutions providing such scholarships across the United States showcase a commitment to recognizing and nurturing exceptional academic, leadership, and community-oriented achievements. Whether on the East Coast, in the Midwest, the South, or the West Coast, students with outstanding GPAs, exemplary standardized test scores, active involvement in extracurricular activities, and a passion for positively impacting their communities can find institutions willing to invest in their education.

These scholarships not only alleviate the financial burden of tuition but often come with additional perks such as coverage for room and board, study abroad opportunities, and enrichment funds. The thorough selection processes, including rigorous academic criteria, interviews, and personal statements, ensure that recipients are academically gifted and possess the character, leadership, and commitment necessary to thrive in a university setting.

Aspiring students should approach the application process diligently, starting early to identify scholarships that align with their goals and qualifications. Pursuing a full-ride scholarship is not merely a financial endeavor but a recognition of the potential for positive societal contributions through education. With dedication, a strong academic foundation, and a compelling personal story, students can position themselves to seize the life-changing opportunities offered by these prestigious scholarships and embark on a journey toward academic excellence and personal growth.

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