Exclusive Merit-Based Scholarships for Students in 2025

Students are constantly searching for ways to fund their higher education. One popular and effective avenue to consider is applying for merit-based scholarships. These scholarships, awarded based on a student's achievements and potential, can greatly alleviate the financial burden of attending college or university.

We will explore the best merit-based scholarships available, provide guidance on how to apply for them, offer tips to increase your chances of success and answer frequently asked questions regarding these scholarships.

Here at Bold.org, you can apply for exclusive scholarships. Sign up here and check which scholarships you are eligible to apply for right now.



Best Merit-Based Scholarships

When it comes to merit-based scholarships, there are many different types of merit scholarships that seek to help talented, hardworking students afford the costs of a college education. The amount varies for each merit award, ranging from $500 to $75,000, but even small awards can make a difference and are worth considering.

Many merit-based scholarships are rewarded based on demonstrated academic excellence. Academic achievement can be demonstrated in several ways, including your grade point average or your test scores.

Scholarships Based on GPA

One way you can demonstrate academic excellence is through your GPA. For high school students who haven't yet taken any standardized test scores, leveraging an impressive GPA can be critical in earning merit scholarships.

There are many scholarship opportunities with GPA requirements on Bold.org, some with more competitive requirements, such as 3.5 or higher.

Scholarships Based on SAT

On Bold.org, you have the option of reporting your standardized test scores. You can make these scores private or public based on your privacy needs. The SAT is scored on a range of 400-1600 with an average score is 1068. High scores can be useful to include on your profile as they can catch the eyes of donors and make your application stand out.

In addition to scholarships available on Bold.org, there are other resources that students with impressive test scores should check out.

The National Merit Scholarship Program rewards students with outstanding PSAT and SAT scores. The process is competitive and has many tiers, including commended students, semifinalists, finalists, and finally, scholars.

Only those who are deemed scholars receive National Merit Scholarships, but commended students and finalists still benefit by reporting their status on college applications. You can find out more about the process here!

Scholarships Based on ACT

The ACT is a standardized test similar to the ACT, with a perfect score of 36. The test is made up of multiple sections related to different subjects and the national average score in 2020 was 20.6.

If your score is higher than average, it will not only help you get into top colleges but can also help you win scholarships and merit-based aid. You can take the ACT multiple times, so don't worry if your first score wasn't as high as you hoped.

The Rhodes Scholarship

Founded in 1902, the Rhodes Scholarship is one of the most renowned international scholarship programs. Each year, this scholarship selects exceptional students from around the world to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. Offering full funding for two to three years of study, the Rhodes Scholarship provides not only financial support but also an unparalleled academic experience.

According to recent statistics, the acceptance rate for the Rhodes Scholarship is less than 1%. However, don't let this discourage you. If you have a strong academic record, leadership skills, and a commitment to making a positive impact in your field, you may have a chance of being awarded this prestigious scholarship.

The Gates Scholarship

Created by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Scholarship aims to enable outstanding minority students to pursue a college education without financial obstacles. This scholarship covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, and transportation.

It is worth noting that the Gates Scholarship is highly competitive, with approximately 300 scholarships awarded annually out of thousands of applicants. Nevertheless, with a rigorous selection process focusing on academic excellence, leadership potential, and community involvement, this scholarship presents an excellent opportunity for deserving students striving to make a difference.

Scholarships for High School Seniors

Whether you excel in academics, sports, the arts, or community service, our Merit Scholarships are designed to honor your hard work and dedication. Apply now and take the first step towards a bright and successful future.

Scholarships for Nursing Students

Whether you are just beginning your nursing journey or are already enrolled in a nursing program, nursing scholarships can help you achieve your professional goals and make a significant impact in the healthcare field. Apply now to invest in your future and the future of healthcare.

Law School Scholarships

Whether you have a strong academic record, leadership experience, or a dedication to community service, law scholarships can help you achieve your legal career goals. Apply now and take the first step toward making a lasting impact in law.

Graduate Student Scholarships

Whether you excel in science, humanities, business, or any other discipline, graduate scholarships are here to help you achieve your advanced degree and make a significant impact in your career. Apply now to invest in your future and reach new heights in your academic journey.

What Is the Difference Between Merit-Based Scholarships and Need-Based Scholarships?

While merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and other factors unrelated to financial need, need-based scholarships are specifically provided to students with demonstrated financial need.

How Do I Get a Merit Scholarship?

High school seniors and undergraduate students, including out-of-state students, can leverage merit-based scholarships to access their university undergraduate program, reducing the financial burden of their education.

Not all merit scholarships are the same, and due to a high demand for financial aid, scholarships can be competitive. Luckily, there are many different merit scholarships offered on Bold.org, giving you lots of opportunities to win one.

To stand out and catch the donor's interest, make sure you're submitting a unique application. Whether the scholarship requires an essay, a video of you, or a portfolio, make sure that you put time into your submission and make it special and detailed.

You can also utilize your profile to your advantage by adding detail to your bio, making sure you have relevant experience added, and ensuring that your profile reflects your interests and background.

How Do I Use Merit Aid?

Merit-based scholarships will be sent to the financial aid office at your college to help cover your tuition or other costs. If you win a scholarship while still in high school, don't worry! We'll hold your award money for you until you enroll in a college.

Certain scholarships are also open to recent graduates who have student debt. If you win one of these scholarships, you'll be able to apply the money directly to your loans.

Colleges that Offer Merit Scholarships

University of Vermont Scholarships

The University of Vermont offers merit scholarships, including the Presidential Scholarship for first-year undergrads.

Cooper Union Scholarships

Cooper Union offers merit scholarships, including a half-tuition scholarship for all admitted full-time undergrads.

Other Colleges with Merit-Based Aid

Many public and private colleges offer merit-based scholarships to high school and college students.

How to Apply for Merit-Based Scholarships

Applying for merit-based scholarships requires careful planning, attention to detail, and showcasing your best qualities. Here are the steps you should follow:

Research

Begin by researching the different scholarships available that match your profile, interests, and academic goals. Many scholarships target specific fields of study, demographics, or regions, so make sure to tailor your search accordingly. Take note of eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and any supporting documents needed.

When conducting your research, don't limit yourself to just online resources. Reach out to your school's guidance counselor, who can provide valuable insights and recommendations. Additionally, consider attending scholarship fairs or information sessions where you can interact with scholarship providers and ask questions directly. By going the extra mile in your research, you may discover hidden gems that align perfectly with your aspirations.

Prepare your application materials

Once you have identified the scholarships that resonate with you, start gathering the necessary application materials. These typically include your academic transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement or essay, and any additional documentation required by the scholarship provider.

When preparing your application materials, pay attention to the details. Ensure that your transcripts are up to date and accurately reflect your academic achievements. Request letters of recommendation well in advance, giving your recommenders ample time to write thoughtful and compelling letters.

Craft a personal statement or essay that showcases your unique experiences, motivations, and goals. Remember, the more effort you put into preparing your application materials, the stronger your chances of standing out among the competition.

Make Your Application Stand Out

Now that you have your application materials ready, it's time to make your application shine. Tailor your personal statement or essay to each scholarship application, highlighting your achievements, goals, and how the scholarship will enable you to reach your full potential. Demonstrate your passion, dedication, and leadership skills in a compelling and authentic manner.

One way to make your application stand out is by showcasing your involvement in extracurricular activities. Highlight any leadership roles, community service initiatives, or projects that you have undertaken. Scholarship providers are often looking for well-rounded individuals who not only excel academically but also contribute positively to their communities.

Remember, the competition for merit-based scholarships is high, so ensure that every aspect of your application exudes excellence. Proofread your application to eliminate any errors or inconsistencies.

Seek feedback from mentors, teachers, or family members who can provide fresh perspectives on your application. By continuously refining and improving your application, you increase your chances of securing the scholarship that will help you achieve your educational dreams.

Tips for Applying for Merit-Based Scholarships

Applying for merit-based scholarships can be a time-consuming task, but you can enhance your chances of success by following these helpful tips:

Start Early

Don't wait until the last minute to begin your scholarship application process. Start researching scholarships and gathering application materials well in advance. By doing so, you can ensure that you have enough time to create a strong application and meet all deadlines.

Starting early also allows you the opportunity to tailor your applications to each scholarship, showcasing how your unique skills and experiences align with the specific criteria of each award. This personalized approach can significantly increase your chances of standing out among the pool of applicants.

Showcase Your Uniqueness

Highlight what sets you apart from other applicants. Emphasize your unique experiences, achievements, and aspirations. Scholarship providers are looking for individuals who demonstrate exceptional qualities and have the potential to make a positive impact on society.

Consider incorporating anecdotes or personal stories that illustrate your journey and the challenges you have overcome. Providing concrete examples of how you have made a difference in your community or excelled in academic pursuits can leave a lasting impression on scholarship committees.

Seek Recommendation Letters Wisely

Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your abilities, strengths, and potential. Provide them with any relevant information that will help them write personalized and impactful letters of recommendation. Remember to ask for recommendations well in advance to give your recommenders enough time to craft thoughtful letters.

When selecting recommenders, opt for individuals who can speak to different facets of your character and accomplishments. A diverse set of perspectives can offer a comprehensive view of your capabilities and further strengthen your application.

Additionally, consider providing your recommenders with a copy of your resume or a list of key achievements to ensure they have all the necessary information to advocate effectively on your behalf.

Stay Organized

Keep track of application deadlines, documents needed, and any other requirements specific to each scholarship. Create a calendar or spreadsheet to stay organized and ensure that you submit your applications accurately and on time.

Utilize technology tools such as reminder apps or online calendars to set alerts for important deadlines and submission dates. Breaking down the application process into smaller, manageable tasks can help you stay on top of requirements and prevent last-minute scrambles. By maintaining a systematic approach, you can present polished, well-prepared applications that reflect your dedication and attention to detail.