Academic & Merit-Based Scholarships

What Are Academic and Merit-Based Scholarships?

Academic and merit-based scholarships are financial awards granted to students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance or special talents. These scholarships are typically awarded based on a student's grades, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, leadership skills, or unique achievements.

Who Are These Scholarships For?

Many students believe that only those with perfect grades or exceptional talents can qualify for academic or merit-based scholarships. However, these scholarships are accessible to a broader range of students than you might think. We encourage students with diverse skills and achievements to explore these opportunities.

Even if you don't have a perfect academic record, there may still be scholarships available to you. Institutions often consider other factors such as leadership qualities, community involvement, and unique talents.

What Types of Scholarships Are Available?

Full-Tuition Scholarships

Cover the entire cost of tuition for the duration of the program.

Departmental Scholarships

Awarded by specific academic departments based on a student's chosen field of study.

Partial Scholarships

Cover a portion of the tuition or provide a set amount toward your educational expenses.

Honors Scholarships

Offered to students who participate in honors programs.

SAT

Assesses a student's readiness for college with sections in Math, Evidence-Based Reading, and Writing.

ACT

Includes sections on English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section.

TOEFL / IETLS

Required for non-native English speakers to demonstrate English proficiency.

Duolingo

An alternative to TOEFL and IELTS, this test is widely accepted by many institutions for demonstrating English proficiency.

Standardized Tests

To qualify for academic and merit-based scholarships, international students may need to take standardized tests such as:

Careers Available

The U.S. education system offers a wide range of academic programs, providing students with numerous opportunities to pursue their passions.

One of the unique features of the U.S. education system is its flexibility, allowing students to customize their academic experience. Students can:

Pursue Double Majors: Study two distinct fields, earning a degree in each.
Add Minors: Complement their major with a secondary concentration, allowing them to explore diverse interests.
Cross-disciplinary Programs: Combine courses from different departments to create a personalized curriculum.

This flexibility enables students to tailor their education to their individual interests and career goals, enhancing their overall academic experience.

Find you own path

At GPAthletes, we aim to guide international students and their families through the process of finding and applying for academic and merit-based scholarships. We believe in breaking down misconceptions and helping students explore every opportunity available to them.

If you have any questions about scholarship opportunities or the application process, feel free to contact us for personalized assistance.