What is a merit scholarship? A high school student’s guide

Enter: Merit scholarships — a term you’ve probably heard thrown around in college emails or by your school counselor. But what is a merit scholarship, really? And how do you actually get one?

Let’s break it all down: What to look for, what qualifies, and how your hard work might help you earn free money for college.

A merit scholarship is a type of financial award given to students based on their achievements, not their financial need. Unlike need-based aid, which considers your family's income or assets, merit-based scholarships reward students for accomplishments such as high GPAs, standardized test scores, leadership experience, artistic talent or community involvement.

In simple terms, a merit scholarship centers around recognizing the effort you’ve already put into academics or extracurriculars.

And unlike loans, you don’t have to pay this money back.

Read more: Scholarship opportunities for high school seniors

It’s easy to confuse the two, but understanding the difference can help you plan ahead.

• Merit scholarships: Awarded for achievements — think strong academics, athletics, leadership  or special talents.
  

• Need-based scholarships: Awarded based on your financial situation 

Many students qualify for both. UC considers you for merit aid automatically when you apply for admission, but submitting your FAFSA is essential to access any need-based support.

You can learn more about the difference between merit- and need-based scholarships from Federal Student Aid.

There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but common college merit scholarship requirements include:

• GPA (often 3.5 or above)
• Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT, depending on the school’s policy)
• Leadership in school or community organizations (team captain, club president, community service organizer — you get it)
• Creative or athletic excellence
• Honors or awards received during high school

If you’ve been balancing good grades with extracurriculars, community work or creative projects, you’re likely on the right track.

To be eligible for merit aid at many colleges, including UC, students usually need to:

• Submit their admissions application by a set priority deadline (often in the fall)
  

• Include test scores, transcripts and recommendations (if needed)
  

• Maintain a strong GPA throughout high school
  

• Demonstrate involvement and leadership
  

Some scholarships are automatic — you're considered just by applying. Others may require a separate scholarship application or essay, so make sure to double-check the fine print.

Merit aid isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are several categories of merit awards, and understanding them can help you apply strategically. Here’s a quick breakdown of the options:

1. Academic merit scholarships: Based on GPA, test scores and academic rigor
   

2. Leadership or service-based scholarships: For students who’ve shown exceptional leadership or community impact
   

3. Talent-based scholarships: For students excelling in arts, music, theater or athletics
   

4. National merit scholarships: Offered through the National Merit Scholarship Program based on PSAT/NMSQT scores.
   

5. Full-ride merit scholarships: Cover tuition, room, board and sometimes even extra expenses. These are highly competitive but life-changing.

UC offers a mix of these, including prestigious Cincinnatus Scholarships, which recognize exceptional academic achievement and leadership.

You might be wondering what GPA is required. While there's no universal answer, many merit awards begin at around a 3.5 GPA. More competitive or full-ride merit scholarships may require a 3.9 GPA or higher, along with other achievements or leadership roles.

Some programs also consider class rank, course difficulty and academic trajectory over time.

Here’s how to strengthen your chances:

1. Apply early: Many merit scholarships have priority deadlines (like Dec. 1).
   

2. Keep your grades up: Focus on your GPA and challenge yourself with honors or AP courses.
   

3. Get involved: Show leadership through clubs, sports or volunteering.
   

4. Craft a standout personal statement: For scholarships that require them, be sure to tell a compelling story.
   

5. Secure strong letters of recommendation: Choose people who know your strengths and character.
   

6. Explore UC’s scholarship options: Use our scholarship search tool or reach out to admissions.

Pro tip: Some merit scholarships at UC are automatic, meaning you’re considered just by submitting your admission app — no extra paperwork required.

UC offers several merit-based opportunities for incoming students. When you apply for admission, you’re automatically considered for scholarships like:

• Cincinnatus scholarships: Ranging from a few thousand dollars up to full tuition.
  

• National merit scholarships: If you’re a semifinalist or finalist, you may be eligible for additional university-based awards.
  

• College-specific merit scholarships: Many departments within UC offer their own awards.

For full details on merit scholarship requirements and deadlines, visit UC’s financial aid page for up-to-date requirements and deadlines.

If you’ve spent your high school years working hard — whether through academics, leadership, creativity, or service — merit aid might already be in your future.

So, keep those grades up, hit the submission deadlines, and don’t be afraid to tell your story.

You’ve earned this. Now let UC help you take it even further.

Want help navigating scholarships at UC? Visit the financial aid page or reach out to admissions.