How to Secure a Merit Scholarship: The Best Approach for Students

For many families, the cost of college is a major concern, making merit scholarships an attractive way to reduce tuition expenses. Unlike need-based financial aid, which depends on family income, merit aid and scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, extracurricular involvement, or special talents.

But not all merit-based financial assistance is the same! Some students will qualify for merit aid directly from colleges, while others may need to seek outside scholarships to supplement their tuition costs. Understanding the difference and knowing where to look can maximize your chances of earning funding.

Merit Aid vs. Scholarships: What’s the Difference?

Merit Aid (Institutional Scholarships from Colleges)

• Awarded directly by colleges based on academic excellence, test scores, leadership, or special talents.

• Often requires no separate application—students are considered upon admission.

• Some schools have automatic merit scholarships based on GPA and test scores, while others are highly competitive.

• Award amounts can range from a few thousand dollars to full tuition coverage.

Outside Scholarships (Private & Community-Based Awards)

• Offered by corporations, foundations, nonprofits, and local organizations.

• May be based on academic excellence, community service, extracurricular achievements, or personal background.

• Requires separate applications, essays, or interviews.

• Some are one-time awards, while others renew annually.

  
  

💡 If you don’t automatically qualify for institutional merit aid, applying for outside scholarships is a smart way to bridge the gap!

Best Strategies to Secure Merit Aid & Scholarships

1. Research Colleges That Offer Strong Merit Aid

• Not all colleges offer generous merit aid, so focus on those that prioritize rewarding high-achieving students.

• Some schools provide guaranteed merit scholarships based on GPA and test scores (e.g., University of Alabama, Arizona State, Miami University).

• Look for mid-tier private colleges that use merit aid to attract top students.

2. Excel in Academics

• Maintain a strong GPA (often 3.5+ for top merit scholarships).

• Take rigorous courses (AP, IB, honors) to show academic depth.

• Class rank can play a role—being in the top 10-25% of your class makes you a stronger candidate.

3. Earn High Standardized Test Scores

• While many schools are test-optional, high SAT/ACT scores can unlock more merit aid.

• Some scholarships have cutoff scores (e.g., 1400+ SAT or 31+ ACT for top awards).

4. Build a Strong Resume of Leadership & Extracurriculars

• Merit aid often goes to students who show leadership, initiative, and impact.

• Take on leadership roles in clubs, student government, sports, or volunteer work.

• Focus on a few meaningful activities rather than spreading yourself too thin.

5. Apply for Outside Scholarships

• Start applying for private scholarships as early as junior year.

• Use scholarship search tools like:

  • Fastweb, Niche, Cappex, Scholarships.com, Going Merry

  • Local organizations (Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, businesses, religious groups, etc.)

• Smaller, local scholarships often have fewer applicants, increasing your chances of winning.

6. Submit a Strong Scholarship Application

• If merit scholarships require an essay, make it personal and compelling.

• Highlight what makes you unique—academic excellence, leadership, or a personal story.

• Request strong recommendation letters from teachers or mentors.

Final Thoughts: Maximize Your Merit Opportunities

If you’re looking to reduce the cost of college, the best strategy is to:

✔ Research colleges that offer strong merit aid

✔ Maintain excellent grades and test scores

✔ Engage in leadership and extracurriculars

✔ Apply for outside scholarships to supplement merit aid

By combining institutional merit aid and private scholarships, students can significantly cut tuition costs and make college more affordable.