Students applying for merit based scholarships must have outstanding academic achievements, talents, and skills to qualify. These qualifications will help them secure a scholarship to finance their academic dreams.
As an international student planning to study abroad, you can find many universities and private organizations offering sponsorships. If you believe you deserve financial assistance, it’s important to discover the types of scholarships available.
Types of merit based scholarships
Merit-based scholarships come in different forms. Some are offered based on performance, while others recognize special talents. Here are some common types of merit based scholarships.
Leadership and Community Service Scholarship
To qualify for leadership and community service scholarships, applicants must meet certain requirements. For example, they must possess sound leadership abilities or individuals interested in volunteer work or community service.
Academic merit based scholarships
These are awarded to students for outstanding academic achievements. A high GPA, excellence in specific subjects, and university honors can get you this scholarship.
Artistic and creative scholarship
This type of scholarship is especially for students who are art-inclined. Whether it’s visual arts, creative writing, or performing arts, exceptional talents, provide aid for higher education.
Athletic scholarships
There are many merit based scholarships for athletic students. Students can secure scholarships for their remarkable performance in sports. This scholarship is often offered by universities with strong athletic programs for outstanding student-athletes.
Also Read: Top Scholarships in USA for African students
Minority Scholarship
This is specially hosted by special organizations to provide funding for students from underrepresented communities. Eligibility criteria may be academic excellence or other special skills.
List of merit based scholarships
American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
The American University Emerging Global Leader scholarship is dedicated to increasing access to quality education and global development. It also aims to connect global leader scholars willing to evoke change in their home countries.
U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents are not eligible for this award. The scholarship covers billable AU expenses, including tuition, visa sponsorship, and accommodation.
Value
$40,000 per year
Closing date: December 1, 2024.
University of Southern California
The University of Southern California offers merit based scholarships to undergraduate students with excellent academic qualifications and achievement. Funding for this award is sponsored by both public and private resources.
Scholars are selected based on talent, academic excellence, and leadership skills. Only eligible students who apply for admission to the university will be considered.
Value
$112,000 for four years
Closing date: December 1, 2024.
Boston University Presidential scholarship
First-year students at Boston University have the opportunity to secure financial aid through the presidential scholarship. To bag this award, a student must be academically talented and have an interest in leadership in their communities.
While this is not a fully funded scholarship, recipients can renew for up to four years. Like other university awards, students will be considered for their admission applications.
Value
$25,000 for four years
Closing date: December 1, 2024.
Clarendon Fund scholarship at the University of Oxford
Outstanding students at the University of Oxford have the opportunity to enjoy Clarendon’s fully funded scholarship. This award covers course fees and living expenses for the duration of your program.
As a merit based scholarship, students will be selected based on academic merit and talents. This program is open to international students pursuing full-time or part-time programs.
University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh offers 100% merit based scholarships for students from selected countries. From undergraduate programs to graduate degrees, students can get financial coverage for their programs.
More so, it covers students pursuing special study programs. Interested candidates must submit a strong statement and proof of their academic achievements during application.
Value
£10,000 per year
Closing date: September 10, 2024.
Yale university
While Yale University does not award merit based scholarships, it partners with several organizations to award students with potential. Yale scholarships are in a league of its own, offering students benefits, including development opportunities and annual stipends.
It covers undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs. The duration of this scholarship lasts from 2-5 years academic years.
Value
$50,000 per year
Closing date: December 15, 2024.
How to apply
There are no direct applications for merit based scholarships from these institutions. Applicants must apply for admission to their preferred university.
While on the university website, review the eligibility criteria and deadlines for scholarships to determine your eligibility. Exceptional applicants will be immediately considered for merit awards after the application process is complete.
