Arizona State University (ASU) is one of the largest public research universities in the United States, known for its commitment to access and excellence in education. ASU offers a variety of scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students to help reduce the financial burden of tuition and other college expenses. These scholarships are available to in-state and out-of-state students, as well as international students, based on a variety of criteria, including academic achievement, financial need, talent, and more.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different types of scholarships offered by ASU, the eligibility requirements, the application process, and tips on how to increase your chances of receiving an ASU scholarship. Whether you’re a high school senior planning to attend ASU, a current ASU student, or an international student looking for scholarship opportunities, this article will provide you with the essential information you need to navigate the scholarship process at ASU.
Types of Scholarships Offered at ASU
ASU offers a wide range of scholarships, designed to support students in various disciplines and at different stages of their academic careers. These scholarships can be broadly categorized into several types:
1. Merit-Based Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic achievements, such as high GPA, standardized test scores, and other factors that demonstrate excellence. These scholarships are typically offered to students with a history of high academic performance and are a way for ASU to reward and attract talented students to their campus.
New American University Scholarships
The New American University Scholarship program is a prestigious set of merit-based scholarships designed for incoming first-year and transfer students. This program includes a range of scholarship amounts, from partial tuition support to full tuition coverage, depending on the student’s academic achievements.
To be eligible for the New American University Scholarships, students must meet certain GPA and test score requirements, though specific thresholds may vary from year to year. Some scholarships within this program are renewable, meaning students can receive funding for multiple years, provided they maintain a required GPA and meet other renewal criteria.
Sun Devil Scholarships
Sun Devil Scholarships are another important merit-based scholarship offered to both incoming first-year and transfer students. These scholarships are awarded to students with outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, and involvement in extracurricular activities. The amount awarded to students can vary but is typically significant enough to cover a large portion of tuition costs.
The Sun Devil Scholarship program is highly competitive, and the application process usually requires students to submit their academic records, test scores, and extracurricular involvement. ASU also takes into consideration leadership roles and achievements when awarding these scholarships.
2. Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based scholarships are designed to provide financial assistance to students who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships are awarded based on the student’s family income, assets, and other factors that impact their ability to pay for college.
The ASU Scholarship Application for Undergraduate Students
This application serves as the primary method through which undergraduate students can apply for various need-based scholarships. Students applying for need-based scholarships will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, which ASU uses to determine financial need.
Need-based scholarships at ASU can range from small awards that help with textbooks and supplies to larger scholarships that cover tuition and living expenses. The amount of these scholarships varies depending on the student’s financial situation and the available funds for each scholarship program.
The ASU General Scholarship Program
The ASU General Scholarship Program is another key need-based scholarship initiative designed to assist undergraduate students from low-income backgrounds. This program is open to all undergraduate students, including those studying in-state and out-of-state, as well as international students who meet specific eligibility criteria. Students are required to submit the FAFSA in order to be considered for these scholarships.
3. Diversity Scholarships
ASU is committed to fostering diversity on its campus, and one of the ways it achieves this is through diversity-focused scholarships. These scholarships aim to support students from historically underrepresented backgrounds, including racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ students, students with disabilities, and others.
The ASU Access and Diversity Scholarship
The Access and Diversity Scholarship is a need-based program that supports students who demonstrate financial need and are members of underrepresented groups. Students who are eligible for this scholarship often come from backgrounds that have historically had lower levels of access to higher education, including those from low-income families, first-generation college students, and ethnic minorities.
This scholarship is designed to help ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to pursue a higher education at ASU. The scholarship amount can vary, and students must meet certain criteria, such as a minimum GPA and a demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The Native American Scholarship Program
ASU offers a range of scholarships for Native American students through the Native American Scholarship Program. These scholarships are intended to support Native American students in their pursuit of higher education, and they are available to both undergraduate and graduate students. The Native American Scholarship Program is designed to help ensure that Native American students have access to the resources and support they need to succeed in their academic careers.
4. Athletic Scholarships
ASU is home to a highly competitive athletics program, and the university offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional skills in their respective sports. These scholarships are awarded to students who are recruited by ASU’s athletic department and who have demonstrated the potential to excel at the collegiate level.
Football, Basketball, and Other Sports Scholarships
ASU’s athletic scholarships are available for students in various sports, including football, basketball, soccer, track and field, swimming, and more. These scholarships can cover full or partial tuition and living expenses, depending on the sport and the student-athlete’s level of skill.
To be considered for an athletic scholarship, students must go through the recruitment process, which includes showcasing their skills, participating in tryouts, and being selected by the coaching staff. In addition to athletic performance, student-athletes must also maintain a certain GPA and meet academic requirements to retain their scholarships.
5. International Student Scholarships
ASU also offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students who are applying for admission to the university. These scholarships can help international students cover the cost of tuition, living expenses, and other fees associated with studying abroad.
The ASU Global Outreach Scholarship
The ASU Global Outreach Scholarship is one of the most popular scholarships for international students. This scholarship is designed to support outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and potential. The scholarship amount can vary, and it is available for both undergraduate and graduate students.
In addition to the ASU Global Outreach Scholarship, there are also other awards available for international students, including merit-based scholarships and financial need-based scholarships. International students are encouraged to check ASU’s scholarship portal for the most up-to-date opportunities and eligibility criteria.
6. Department-Specific Scholarships
Many academic departments and colleges within ASU offer their own scholarship opportunities for students pursuing degrees in specific fields of study. These department-specific scholarships are typically designed for students who have chosen a particular major or field of interest and are looking for additional financial support.
Engineering and Technology Scholarships
The College of Engineering and the School of Computing, Informatics, and Decision Systems Engineering (CIDSE) at ASU offer scholarships to students pursuing degrees in engineering and technology fields. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential for success in the engineering industry.
Business and Management Scholarships
The W. P. Carey School of Business at ASU provides a range of scholarships to business students, including those pursuing undergraduate, MBA, and other graduate degrees. Scholarships are typically awarded to students with strong academic records, leadership potential, and career aspirations in business.
How to Apply for ASU Scholarships
Applying for scholarships at ASU is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are the general steps you need to follow to apply for scholarships at ASU:
1. Complete the ASU Scholarship Application
The first step in applying for ASU scholarships is to complete the ASU Scholarship Application, which can be accessed through ASU’s scholarship portal. The application will ask for basic personal information, academic records, extracurricular activities, and other relevant details.
2. Submit the FAFSA
To be considered for need-based scholarships, you must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA helps ASU determine your financial need and ensures that you are considered for federal and institutional aid.
3. Meet Eligibility Requirements
Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria, which may include GPA requirements, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and financial need. Be sure to review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship you are applying for and ensure that you meet the requirements before submitting your application.
4. Apply Early
Many ASU scholarships have early application deadlines, so it’s important to start the application process well in advance. Some scholarships, especially those offered by specific departments, may have limited funds available, so applying early increases your chances of receiving funding.
Conclusion
Arizona State University offers a wide range of scholarships to support students in their academic journey. Whether you are a high-achieving student looking for merit-based scholarships, a student with financial need seeking assistance, or an international student exploring funding opportunities, ASU provides numerous options to help reduce the cost of tuition and other educational expenses.
By understanding the different types of scholarships available at ASU and following the application process carefully, you can increase your chances of receiving the financial support you need to pursue your education. Be sure to explore all the scholarship opportunities available at ASU and apply early to maximize your chances of success.
