admin2You’ve chosen that you want to attend Grand Canyon University, but you’re worried about the cost of tuition. Calm down. GCU provides some of the biggest merit scholarships available, and with the appropriate strategy, you may be able to secure a full ride. All you need to do is put in some effort and prepare ahead.
Over the next few months, you’ll need to put your game face on and get serious about your grades, test scores, and extracurriculars. The higher your GPA and SAT/ACT scores, the more you’ll be eligible for.
If you follow this easy-to-understand advice, you could discover that your first year of college is already covered when you arrive on GCU’s palm-tree lined campus the following autumn. Who knows? If you continue to put in the effort, you might be able to obtain another merit scholarship for the remainder of your time at GCU.
Understanding GCU’s Merit Scholarship Requirements
To earn GCU’s top merit scholarships, you need to meet some basic requirements. First, you must be a new student enrolling in an undergraduate program. Transfer students are eligible, but you must have earned fewer than 24 college credits.
You’ll also need a stellar high school GPA. Aim for at least a 3.5 to be competitive, but the higher the better. SAT/ACT scores also matter. For the Presidential Scholarship, shoot for 1300+ on the SAT or 28+ on the ACT. Lower tier scholarships may require 1200/24.
Get involved in extracurriculars and leadership roles. GCU wants to see well-rounded students who will contribute to campus life. Join clubs, sports teams, volunteer organizations, or school committees. Take on leadership positions when possible.
Also you need to apply on time. Priority deadlines are in December and January for fall enrollment. Miss these dates and you risk losing out on the top awards.
Lastly, schedule a campus visit if possible. While not always required, visiting shows your enthusiasm and can strengthen your application. Meet with admissions reps, tour the campus, and get a feel for student life at GCU.
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Building a Strong Application for GCU’s Top Merit Awards
Here are some tips to help strengthen your submission:
1. Build your resume.
List any honors, awards, volunteer work, sports, clubs, hobbies, musical talents or causes you’re involved in. Colleges like to see students who are active and engaged. Mention any leadership roles you’ve held as well. The more well-rounded you seem, the better.
2. Get excellent references.
Ask teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, or mentors who know you well to write a recommendation letter. Make sure they can speak knowledgeably about your abilities, work ethic, character, and potential. Glowing references from influential people will carry a lot of weight.
3. Submit a killer essay.
The essay portion is your chance to show your personality and passion. Discuss an experience that shaped you or a cause you care about. Explain how you overcame obstacles. Help the reviewers get a sense of who you are beyond your GPA and test scores.
4. Apply early.
Some GCU merit scholarships have early deadlines. Submit all required documents as soon as possible for the best chance of securing an award. Applying early also demonstrates your enthusiasm and preparation.
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Completing the Scholarship Process From Start to Finish
To have the best chance at earning GCU’s top merit scholarships, follow these steps:
1. Apply Early
Apply for admission and scholarships as early as possible, ideally in the fall of your senior year of high school. Meeting the priority deadlines in November and December will ensure your application is reviewed for the maximum number of awards. The earlier you apply, the better your chances are of securing funding before it runs out.
Complete the GCU Admissions Application which will automatically consider you for merit awards. Then, fill out the separate GCU Scholarship Application to be evaluated for additional scholarships. Provide any supporting materials like essays, portfolios, audition recordings, etc. based on your program of study.
2. Maintain Strong Grades
Your final high school GPA and test scores are significant factors in determining eligibility and selection for scholarships. Work hard senior year to keep your grades up. If your scores improve, be sure to send updated official transcripts and test results to GCU for consideration. Higher stats can open you up to more and higher value awards.
3. Apply for Outside Funding
Look for opportunities to earn outside scholarships and grants to combine with any GCU funding you receive. Check with local community organizations, places of worship, nonprofits, and national programs. Every dollar helps when paying for college.
Following these useful tips will set you on the path to earning GCU’s most prestigious merit scholarships.
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Conclusion
With a stellar application highlighting your achievements, passion, and potential, you’ll have an excellent shot at earning GCU’s most prestigious merit scholarships. Best of luck.
FAQ’S
Have some questions about GCU’s merit scholarships? Here are some of the most frequently asked ones:
1. What GPA do I need to qualify for a merit scholarship?
Most of GCU’s merit scholarships require at least a 3.0 GPA. The higher your GPA, the more scholarship money you may receive. For GCU’s most prestigious scholarships like the Provost’s and President’s Scholarships, you’ll need a 3.5 GPA or higher.
2. Do I need to submit an essay to be considered for a merit scholarship?
For most merit scholarships, no essay is required. GCU evaluates applicants based primarily on GPA and test scores. However, for scholarships like the Provost’s and President’s Scholarships, a short essay may be part of the application.
3. How much can I receive from a GCU merit scholarship?
Merit scholarship amounts range from $2,000 up to $20,000 per year. The exact amount will depend on your GPA, test scores, and other factors. The higher your scores and the more prestigious the scholarship, the more money you can receive.
4. Do I need to apply for GCU’s merit scholarships?
Most students are automatically considered for merit scholarships based on the information provided in their admission application. However, for some of GCU’s most competitive scholarships, like the Provost’s and President’s Scholarships, a separate application may be required. Check with your admissions counselor for details.
5. Can I combine a GCU merit scholarship with other aid?
Yes, merit scholarships can typically be combined with other forms of financial aid such as federal grants, student loans, and private scholarships. Talk to your admissions counselor about creating a financial aid package that maximizes your available resources.
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