Merit Scholarships for First-Year Students
It’s Time For Your Hard Work to Pay Off
BU offers a wide variety of merit scholarships, some even covering full tuition, to recognize high achieving students who go above and beyond. Most awards are for academic achievement, while others go to talented athletes, performers, and artists. Plus, merit-based awards don’t require you to submit a financial aid application and do not have to be repaid.
The competition is keen.
While criteria varies for each scholarship, recipients typically:
- Rank in the top 5% of their high school class.
- Have shown incredible extracurricular achievements in their schools and communities.
Though test scores are not required, students who submit scores typically:
- Have SAT scores above 1500 and ACT scores above 33.
Who is eligible to apply?
- U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible non-citizens are considered for all merit awards and other scholarships.
- International students are considered for the Trustee and Presidential Scholarships only.
Trustee Scholarship
BU’s most prestigious scholarship, scholars become part of a unique campus community that offers intellectual, cultural and social opportunities. Competitive applicants who are among the most accomplished in their class and demonstrate exceptional engagement in their schools and communities should apply.
All students are considered for the Trustee Scholarship: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, eligible non-citizens, and international students.
- Annual Value: Full tuition & fees
- Deadline: December 1
- Number of Awards: 20
- No CSS Profile™ & FAFSA required
- One essay required on the Common Application
Presidential Scholarship
Given to first-year students from around the globe who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement. In addition to being among our most talented students, they also excel beyond the classroom and are leaders in their schools and communities.
All students are considered for the Presidential Scholarship: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, eligible non-citizens, and international students.
- Annual Value: Half tuition*
- Deadline: December 1
*Effective for students entering Fall 2025
College of Engineering FIRST Robotics
For College of Engineering applicants who have participated in at least one season with a FIRST Robotics team.
- Annual Value: Half tuition*
- Deadline: February 1
- Number of Awards: Varies
*Effective for students entering Fall 2025