Syracuse admitted about 49% of first-year applicants for fall 2025, and Early Decision applicants got in at a higher rate (about 56%). Here’s the part most families miss: only about 23% of enrolled students sent an SAT and 8% sent an ACT. Test-optional is the norm here, and Syracuse says students who skip scores stay fully eligible for merit money.
There’s no scholarship chart to check your student against. The admission application is the scholarship application. Grades, essays, activities, and (for some majors) portfolios or auditions all feed the merit decision, which shows up with the acceptance.
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at Syracuse University (Read This First)
The early date moved up. For fall 2027, Early Decision I is due November 1 (it used to be November 15), and there’s a new non-binding Early Action round, also November 1. ED II and Regular Decision stay at January 5. Because merit is decided at admission, that application date is effectively your scholarship deadline.
FAFSA and CSS Profile are due with the application. November 1 for Early Action and Early Decision, January 5 for Regular Decision. Late forms still get federal aid, but Syracuse’s own need-based grants become “funds available.”
The renewal bar went up. Students starting fall 2026 or later need a 3.0 GPA to keep merit (earlier students keep 2.75). Some older Syracuse pages still say 2.75, so don’t let that confuse you.
Merit can’t go past tuition. All Syracuse scholarships combined top out at the tuition bill. Housing and food come from need-based aid or your pocket. And a fixed-dollar award stays flat for four years while tuition climbs; only full- and half-tuition awards grow with it.
Three engineering awards need a form. ACE Mentor (Jan 1), FIRST Robotics (Jan 15) and Project Lead The Way (Jan 15) each require a short form, or Syracuse won’t know your student qualifies.
Two years on campus are required. First- and second-year students live in University housing unless family lives locally, so budget the on-campus cost for at least two years.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes, for admission. Syracuse University is test-optional for admission.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 29-33; SAT: 1300-1410.
Average net price? About $48,215/year after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
No. It is a private school, so everyone pays the same rate.
💰 Cost of Attendance at Syracuse University: 2026–2027 Rates
Figures verified against official sources in October 2026.
📅 Planning for 2027–2028? These are the 2026–2027 rates, the newest Syracuse University has published. Colleges usually release next year's costs in the spring, and we update this page when they do.
Budgeting tip: costs typically rise 2% to 5% a year. For 2027–2028, plan on roughly $1,800 to $4,600 more than the total below.
✔ Same price for every student, no matter which state you live in.
All students: billed cost per year
$91,629
Tuition, fees, housing, and meals for two semesters
Tuition & mandatory fees
$71,049
Housing & meals (typical)
$20,580
Total billed cost
$91,629
Average federal net price: $48,215 per year.
This is what first-time, full-time students who received grant aid paid after grants and scholarships, based on the most recent federal data. It counts books and living costs, so it can run higher than the billed total above. Families who got no grants are not in this average, so many middle-income families pay more. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
One Price for Everyone, So the Aid Forms Do the Heavy Lifting
Syracuse is private, so there’s no in-state discount and no regional tuition exchange. A family in Syracuse and a family in Seattle see the same sticker price. What changes the bill is aid: Syracuse reports meeting about 95% of demonstrated need for full-time undergrads who apply, and that number runs through the CSS Profile. If you skip the forms or file late, you’re mostly left with whatever merit came with the acceptance.
FAQ: Cost of Attendance at Syracuse University
What’s actually in the $71,049 “tuition and fees” number?
Tuition is $69,180 for 2026-27. The rest is mandatory fees, including a residential technology fee that everyone in campus housing pays. Add $20,580 for average housing and food and you get about $91,600 in direct costs before aid.
Why does Syracuse list a total near $96,000?
Syracuse’s official cost of attendance ($95,676 for an on-campus student) also counts books (about $1,850), transportation, and personal expenses. There’s a separate $2,868 student health insurance charge that you can waive if your student has adequate private coverage. That’s worth doing if your family plan works in New York.
Can my student live off campus to save money?
Not right away. First- and second-year students have to live in University housing unless their immediate family lives in the Syracuse area. Juniors and seniors are budgeted at the off-campus rate, which Syracuse estimates a little lower.
Is the average net price really around $48,000?
That’s the most recent federal average after grants and scholarships, and it includes families from every income level. About 82% of Syracuse students get some kind of financial help. Your number could be much lower or higher, so run the Net Price Calculator with your real tax documents.
Our parents are divorced. Does that change anything?
Yes, and it trips up a lot of families. Syracuse requires the noncustodial parent to file the CSS Noncustodial Profile. Leaving that parent out of the Net Price Calculator is the most common reason estimates come out too rosy.
Will our merit scholarship grow when tuition goes up?
Only if it’s a full-tuition or half-tuition award. Those adjust each year. A fixed-dollar award (say, $25,000) stays the same for four years, so it covers a little less each year as tuition rises. Plan for that gap.
November 1: Early Action and Early Decision I applications, plus FAFSA and CSS Profile. Architecture portfolios and music auditions for early rounds are due too.
January 1: ACE Mentor scholarship form.
January 5: ED II and Regular Decision applications, plus FAFSA and CSS Profile for those rounds.
January 15: FIRST Robotics and Project Lead The Way scholarship forms.
Late December to late March: Decisions arrive with merit attached (ED I late December, ED II mid-January, EA early February, RD mid-March). Need-based aid offers follow.
Parent rule of thumb: if Syracuse is a serious contender, aim for November 1 and file both aid forms the same week.
Automatic Merit Scholarships at Syracuse University
Every first-year applicant is considered for merit automatically, including international and test-optional applicants. There’s no published GPA or test-score grid. Syracuse decides each award individually during admission review and shows the amount on the aid offer. The only extra paperwork is a short form for three engineering awards (ACE Mentor, FIRST, Project Lead The Way).
Find your student's tier
Enter the numbers you have. We'll highlight the automatic award your student would actually get and tuck the rest out of the way. Leave it blank to browse everything.
Residency
Based on published cutoffs for entering freshmen. Always verify with the college before finalizing plans.
Start with your state. The awards in this first group come from the state, not the college. They are decided by residency and the FAFSA, and they stack on top of whatever automatic merit award the college gives below. If you live out of state, use the toggle above and these will step aside.
State AidAutomaticstate residencyneed based
Tuition Assistance Program
📅 Deadline: FAFSA and TAP application; final cutoff June 30 after the aid year ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,000–$5,665/yr
✔ Stackable
NY resident for 12 months; NYS net taxable income $125,000 or less for dependent students; full time at an approved NY college; FAFSA plus a separate TAP application every year
✚
Stacking & Combining
New York's main need grant, $1,000 to $5,665 a year on a sliding income scale, and it travels to private NY colleges. Stacks with Pell and with the college's own aid. Two forms every year: the FAFSA and the TAP application.
💡
Strategic Detail
State program, not a Syracuse University award. Rules and amounts are set by the state and can change with each budget. Full details on the CollegeReadyParent NY page.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Families under $125,000 who finished the separate TAP application after the FAFSA. The TAP form is its own step on the HESC site, and the students who show up with Pell but no TAP are almost always the ones who stopped at the FAFSA confirmation screen.
State AidApp Requiredstate residency
NYS Scholarship for Academic Excellence
📅 Deadline: High school nomination; deadline set by the school ✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
$500–$1,500/yr
✔ Stackable
Nominated by the high school based on Regents exam scores; no application; must enroll the fall right after graduation; public or private NY college
✚
Stacking & Combining
$500 or $1,500 a year for four years, awarded by Regents scores and nominated by the high school. Small but automatic and renewable at a C average. Stacks with TAP, Excelsior, and college aid.
💡
Strategic Detail
State program, not a Syracuse University award. Rules and amounts are set by the state and can change with each budget. Full details on the CollegeReadyParent NY page.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Top Regents scorers whose high school submitted the nomination. There is nothing for a family to do except confirm with the guidance office that the nomination went in, and that is exactly the step nobody takes.
State AidApp Requiredgeographicneed based
Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP)
📅 Deadline: With admission application (Nov 1 / Jan 5) · 📢 Results: With admission decision ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ New York State opportunity program — income and residency restricted.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
HEOP combines Syracuse institutional aid, NYS TAP, federal Pell, and program-specific funding to cover demonstrated need.
📄
How to Apply
Indicate HEOP interest on your Syracuse application. Eligibility is reviewed by Syracuse Admissions based on New York State income guidelines and academic profile. HEOP applicants typically do not meet Syracuse's standard admission profile but are top performers from their high schools.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Established by the New York State Legislature to provide access to independent colleges for economically and educationally disadvantaged NYS residents. Economic eligibility is based on state-mandated low-income guidelines; academic criteria are set by each HEOP institution.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: New York State residents from economically and educationally disadvantaged backgrounds who are top performers in their high school context but fall outside Syracuse's standard admit profile.
One award, not a pile. Colleges apply your student's single best automatic award. Automatic scholarships almost never stack with each other, though some stack with housing, departmental, or outside money. The stacking notes on each card tell you which.
Automatic
Syracuse University Merit Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific. Combines with other tuition awards (including outside scholarships, except Tuition Exchange) up to the annual cost of tuition.
💡
Strategic Detail
Syracuse does not publish a merit grid or dollar ranges. Amounts are set individually at admission and appear on the aid offer in MySlice. Renewal requires full-time enrollment (12+ credits) and a 3.0 cumulative GPA for students entering Fall 2026 or later; earlier cohorts keep the 2.75 threshold. Fixed-dollar awards stay flat for four years, while full- and half-tuition awards rise with tuition.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Admitted first-year students with strong academics plus leadership, character and real engagement outside the classroom. Syracuse reads the whole application, so the essay and activities carry weight alongside grades.
Automatic
Syracuse University Orange Award
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific. Stacks with other tuition awards up to the annual cost of tuition.
💡
Strategic Detail
Listed alongside the 1870, Coronat, and Merit Scholarship as one of Syracuse's signature awards. Amounts vary and appear on each student's MySlice aid offer.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Admitted first-year students whose community involvement and personal character stand out, with solid academics behind them.
App Required
FIRST Robotics Scholarship (Engineering & Computer Science)
📅 Deadline: Jan 15 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific. Stacks with your Syracuse merit award and other tuition scholarships up to the annual cost of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the College of Engineering & Computer Science by the standard admission deadlines, then complete Syracuse's FIRST Robotics Application Form by Jan 15 of your senior year to flag your FRC or FTC team participation.
💡
Strategic Detail
Syracuse describes this as a select award without publishing a fixed amount or annual quota. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required. Renewal at 3.0 GPA under the current catalog year (earlier scholars grandfathered at 2.75).
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Engineering and Computer Science admits with strong academics and substantive FIRST Robotics Competition or FIRST Tech Challenge team experience.
Automatic
Syracuse University VEX Robotics (REC Foundation) Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific. Stacks with other tuition awards up to the cost of tuition.
💡
Strategic Detail
Program-specific merit award for students who participated in REC Foundation programs during high school.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Engineering and Computer Science admits with documented REC Foundation or VEX Robotics participation and strong academics.
App Required
ACE Mentor Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific. Stacks with other tuition awards up to the cost of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the ACE Mentor Application Form to the Office of Admissions by Jan 1 of your senior year of high school to flag your ACE Mentor participation. You must also be admitted to the College of Engineering & Computer Science or the School of Architecture.
💡
Strategic Detail
Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who participated in an ACE Mentor Program affiliate during high school.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Engineering, Computer Science, and Architecture admits with documented ACE Mentor Program (Architecture, Construction, Engineering) participation.
App Required
Project Lead the Way Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 15 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific. Stacks with other tuition awards up to the cost of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the College of Engineering and Computer Science, then submit Syracuse's Project Lead The Way Application Form by Jan 15 of senior year to document at least two PLTW courses.
💡
Strategic Detail
Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who completed at least two Project Lead the Way courses during high school.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Engineering and Computer Science admits who completed at least two PLTW courses during high school with strong academic performance.
Automatic
America On Tech Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific. Stacks with other tuition awards up to the cost of tuition.
💡
Strategic Detail
Founded by two Syracuse University alumni. Offered to select students who participated in America On Tech during high school.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Engineering and Computer Science admits with documented America On Tech participation.
Data last verified Oct 1, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Note: Syracuse scholarships stack with each other and with outside scholarships, but only up to the cost of tuition each year. The one outside award that can’t be combined with Syracuse merit is Tuition Exchange.
Automatic Merit FAQs (Syracuse University)
How does Syracuse decide who gets merit money?
The admissions committee looks at the whole application: grades and course rigor, test scores if submitted, class rank, activities, character, and portfolios or auditions for arts majors. There’s no separate scholarship essay and no formula you can check ahead of time.
Will applying test-optional hurt our chances at merit?
Syracuse says no. Students who don’t submit scores “will not be disadvantaged” and stay eligible for merit through at least the Spring 2028 entry term. With only about a quarter of the class sending scores, test-optional is the normal path here.
When will we find out how much we got?
The merit award comes with the admission decision. Need-based aid follows: December to January for Early Decision, February for Early Action, and late March for Regular Decision, as long as the FAFSA and CSS Profile were filed on time.
Can my student get more than one Syracuse award?
Yes. A student could hold a Syracuse Merit Scholarship plus, say, a FIRST Robotics Scholarship. The catch is the total: all tuition scholarships combined can’t exceed the tuition bill for that year.
What does it take to keep the scholarship?
Full-time enrollment (12+ credits a semester) and a 3.0 cumulative GPA for students starting fall 2026 or later. Students have three semesters to meet the GPA. Awards last up to eight semesters, or ten in an approved five-year program like Architecture.
My student does robotics or engineering programs in high school. Does that count?
It can. Syracuse has dedicated awards for FIRST, VEX/REC Foundation, ACE Mentor, America On Tech, and Project Lead The Way students admitted to Engineering and Computer Science (ACE also covers Architecture). ACE, FIRST and PLTW need a short form by January 1 or January 15; the others are picked up from the application.
Syracuse’s biggest awards are decided inside the admission process, not through a separate scholarship contest. The 1870 Scholarship (often full tuition) and the Architecture Scholarship (full tuition) come straight from the application and portfolio. The one true “invite, essay, interview” award is the Coronat Scholarship in Arts and Sciences | Maxwell.
🎯 How the Coronat Funnel Works
18,000+ students apply to A&S | Maxwell each year, and every one is considered. There’s no separate deadline.
About 200 get an email in January inviting them to write a Coronat application.
About 40 are invited to a Zoom interview in early spring.
Winners get full tuition, extra aid to meet any remaining need (if you file the FAFSA and CSS Profile), a funded study abroad experience, summer funding, and automatic Honors admission.
Parent translation: recent Coronat scholars averaged a 4.15 GPA and a 1500 SAT, but the service record and interview decide it. And the scholarship only works if your student stays in A&S | Maxwell.
✅ Can You Stack Scholarships at Syracuse?
Aid Type
Stacks with Merit?
Syracuse Parent Translation
Syracuse merit + talent awards
Yes, up to tuition
Several Syracuse awards can combine, but the total stops at the tuition bill.
Outside scholarships
Yes, up to tuition
Local and national awards combine with Syracuse merit. Tuition Exchange is the one exception.
Need-based grants
Yes
This is how housing and food get covered. It depends on the CSS Profile and FAFSA being on time.
Coronat
Goes further
Full tuition, plus Syracuse adds aid to meet remaining demonstrated need.
Army / Air Force ROTC
Yes
The military pays tuition, and Syracuse adds help toward housing and meals.
Automatic
Syracuse University 1870 Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific. Combines with other tuition awards up to the cost of tuition each year.
💡
Strategic Detail
Named for the university's founding year. Syracuse says the 1870 often covers full tuition for the length of the program, but it does not publish a fixed amount; check the MySlice aid offer. 1870 recipients receive a direct invitation to the Renée Crown University Honors Program.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Admitted first-year students with exceptional academics plus a record of innovation, leadership and community service. Syracuse positions the 1870 as its top university-wide merit award.
Full TuitionApp Requiredmajorpipelinehonors
Coronat Scholars Program (A&S | Maxwell)
📅 Deadline: No separate deadline; invitations in January, Zoom interviews early spring · 📢 Results: March (after interview round) ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full_tuition_plus_benefits
✔ Stackable
⚠ Highly competitive full-tuition scholarship for A&S | Maxwell admits.
Home college must remain A&S | Maxwell for the duration of the scholarship.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific, but Coronat goes further than most: if you qualify for federal aid and submit both the FAFSA and CSS Profile, Syracuse may layer additional aid on top to meet your full demonstrated need beyond tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Every first-year applicant to A&S | Maxwell is considered automatically. Roughly 200 students are emailed in January and invited to submit a written Coronat application; about 40 are invited to interview by Zoom in early spring.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Full tuition for four years (five in an approved five-year program), additional aid to meet demonstrated need for students who file the FAFSA and CSS Profile, funding for one Syracuse Abroad experience, competitive summer funding, admission to the Renée Crown University Honors Program, and mentoring for prestigious national scholarships. Renewal requires a 3.0 cumulative GPA and full-time enrollment for students entering Fall 2026 or later (2.75 for earlier cohorts). A&S | Maxwell must remain the home college; transferring out forfeits the scholarship.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: A&S | Maxwell admits with elite academics (recent scholars average a 4.15 high school GPA and a 1500 SAT or 34 ACT superscore), a clear record of service, and a strong interview.
Full TuitionAutomaticmajor
Architecture Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 5 yrs)
Full Tuition
full_tuition_possible
✔ Stackable
⚠ Prestigious full-tuition scholarship for Architecture admits.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-specific. Combines with other tuition awards up to the cost of tuition each year.
💡
Strategic Detail
Described as a prestigious full-tuition scholarship for select Architecture admits. Renewable for the five years of the B.Arch program at 3.0 GPA under the current catalog year (earlier scholars grandfathered at 2.75).
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming first-year Architecture admits with both top academic credentials and a portfolio that demonstrates real artistic ability.
App Requiredmajor
Maxwell School of Citizenship Scholarship for Community Impact
📅 Deadline: With Maxwell admission application · 📢 Results: With admission decision or shortly after ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$15,000/yr
✔ Stackable
⚠ Competitive named scholarship for incoming Maxwell School first-year students.
👥 ~4/year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Sponsored by the Maxwell School. Combines with other Syracuse aid up to the cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Incoming first-year Maxwell School students apply by submitting a short description of a community impact project, supporting evidence of that impact, and a reference letter from a non-family adult who can speak to the work.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Four scholarships of $15,000 awarded each year. Renewable provided the student remains a Maxwell major, completes at least 12 credits per semester, and maintains a 3.0 cumulative GPA under the current catalog year (earlier scholars grandfathered at 2.75).
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Maxwell first-year admits with a documented record of community impact work: real projects with measurable results, not just logged service hours.
App Requiredmajortalent
Setnor Music Director's Award
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Setnor music talent scholarship — audition required.
Students who choose the non-audition pathway are not eligible for music scholarships. Non-music majors are not eligible.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Talent scholarship. Combines with academic merit and NY State TAP as long as the total does not exceed full tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Syracuse, declare a Setnor School of Music degree program, and complete the Music Requirements Form within your applicant portal. Audition (in-person, virtual, or recorded) is required to be considered for music scholarships.
🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Setnor music scholarships are awarded to entering students based on talent and require a music major declaration. Students choosing the non-audition pathway are not eligible for music scholarships but remain eligible for academic merit awards. Renewable for four years at 3.0 GPA under the current catalog year (earlier scholars grandfathered at 2.75).
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming first-year Setnor admits with exceptional musical talent revealed in the audition and strong academic records.
App Requiredmajortalent
Setnor Music Orchestral Award
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Non-audition pathway students and non-music majors are not eligible.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Talent scholarship. Combines with academic merit and NY State TAP as long as the total does not exceed full tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Syracuse, declare a Setnor School of Music degree program, and complete the Music Requirements Form within your applicant portal. Audition (in-person, virtual, or recorded) is required to be considered for music scholarships.
🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Talent-based award targeted at orchestral instrumentalists. Renewable for four years at 3.0 GPA under the current catalog year (earlier scholars grandfathered at 2.75).
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming first-year Setnor admits demonstrating high-level orchestral instrumental performance in the audition.
App Requiredmajortalent
Setnor Music Award
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: With admission offer ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ General Setnor music talent scholarship — audition required.
Non-audition pathway students and non-music majors are not eligible.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Talent scholarship. Combines with academic merit and NY State TAP as long as the total does not exceed full tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Syracuse, declare a Setnor School of Music degree program, and complete the Music Requirements Form within your applicant portal. Audition (in-person, virtual, or recorded) is required to be considered for music scholarships.
🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Broad Setnor talent award open across vocal and instrumental disciplines. Renewable for four years at 3.0 GPA under the current catalog year (earlier scholars grandfathered at 2.75).
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming first-year Setnor admits across vocal and instrumental disciplines who demonstrate strong musical talent in the audition.
App Requiredmajorneed based
SUSTAIN Scholarship (A&S STEM, Pell-Eligible)
📅 Deadline: Program-specific deadlines before enrollment · 📢 Results: Before first-semester enrollment ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Competitive scholarship for Pell-eligible STEM students in A&S.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Combines with other aid up to the cost of attendance. Layered with federal Pell, state aid, and Syracuse merit when applicable.
📄
How to Apply
Admitted A&S students planning STEM majors and Pell-eligible apply for the SUSTAIN Scholarship before enrolling — contact SUSTAINstem@syr.edu for the program-specific application materials.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
More than a scholarship — SUSTAIN is a full support program for Pell-eligible STEM students in the College of Arts and Sciences. Award amounts vary by financial need profile.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-achieving, Pell-eligible students in A&S pursuing STEM majors. Syracuse pairs the financial award with academic and community support to help scholars thrive in STEM.
Full TuitionApp Requiredgeographicpipeline
Syracuse University Posse Leadership Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Posse Foundation nomination deadlines (varies by city) · 📢 Results: Per Posse Foundation timeline ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full_tuition
✘ Not stackable
⚠ Full tuition for Posse Foundation nominees from Miami.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Full tuition is provided by Syracuse to selected Posse Scholars. Stacking with other Syracuse merit is limited because the full-tuition value already meets tuition cost.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Posse Foundation in your home city — Syracuse identifies Posse Scholars in partnership with the Posse Foundation in eligible cities. The Posse Foundation nomination process is separate from Syracuse's admissions application.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Syracuse's Posse partnership recruits from Miami. Selected students receive a full-tuition Syracuse University Posse Leadership Scholarship and join a supportive cohort for all four years. Students are identified through the Posse Foundation and Syracuse Admissions.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Miami high school students nominated through the Posse Foundation with extraordinary academic and leadership potential.
Data last verified Oct 1, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
❓ Flagship / Competitive Scholarship FAQs
How do you apply for the 1870 Scholarship?
You don’t, at least not separately. Every admitted first-year student is considered. Syracuse says it often covers full tuition but doesn’t publish a set amount, and 1870 winners get a direct invitation to the Honors Program.
What’s the deadline for Coronat?
There isn’t a separate or preferred one. Apply to A&S | Maxwell by any regular deadline, then watch email in January. If invited, the written application and spring interview are where it’s won or lost.
Does the Architecture Scholarship really cover full tuition?
Yes, Syracuse describes it as a full-tuition award for incoming Architecture students with strong artistic and academic ability. It renews for all five years of the B.Arch at a 3.0 GPA. The portfolio is due with the application (November 1 or January 5).
How do music scholarships work?
Setnor School of Music awards (Director’s Award, Orchestral Award, Setnor Award) are based on the audition. Students must declare a music major. Choosing the non-audition pathway rules out music scholarships, though academic merit is still on the table.
Is there a scholarship for public service or policy students?
Yes. The Maxwell School gives four $15,000-a-year Community Impact scholarships to incoming first-year Maxwell students. Applicants send a short description of a community project, evidence of its impact, and a reference letter from a non-family adult.
Does Syracuse offer a National Merit scholarship?
Syracuse doesn’t advertise a National Merit package. National Merit Finalists show up among Coronat winners, but their money comes through Syracuse’s regular merit and competitive awards.
🧠 Parent Strategy: No Merit at Admission Isn’t the End of the Story
Syracuse has a handful of awards that kick in after your student arrives, and a couple are built for students who didn’t get merit up front.
First semester: 15+ credits and a 3.75 GPA triggers the Invest in Success Scholarship automatically. There’s only one shot at it.
End of sophomore year: students who entered without Syracuse merit can apply for one of 11 Scholarship in Action awards ($6,000 a year).
Junior year: apply for the Remembrance Scholarship, 35 awards of $5,000 for senior year.
Anytime: SOURCE research grants (up to $5,000) and need-based study abroad aid. Syracuse aid generally travels to its abroad programs for a semester.
Parent translation: tell your student about the first-semester 3.75 rule before move-in day. It’s easy to miss and impossible to redo.
📍 Pipeline Check: Is Your Student Already in One of These?
Some of Syracuse’s most generous money goes to students who are already in a partner program. If any of these apply, flag it on the application and ask the program coordinator about Syracuse’s form:
Say Yes (Syracuse, Buffalo, Cleveland, Guilford County NC): tuition covered, with income limits by city.
New York programs: HEOP, Liberty Partnerships (at least half tuition, form due Feb 1), On Point for College (full tuition minimum, form due Apr 15), Syracuse Challenge.
National partners: KIPP (aims to meet full need), Today’s Students Tomorrow’s Teachers (at least half tuition), Posse (Miami, full tuition), AmeriCorps alumni (at least half tuition).
Haudenosaunee and Indigenous students: the Haudenosaunee Promise is a true full ride, and the Honor Scholarship covers tuition and fees for three more students each year.
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
These awards aren’t part of the automatic merit review, but many stack with it and fill real gaps. Some need a short form, some go to students in specific programs, and a few are earned once your student is on campus.
Automatic
Kessler Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: No application; invitations May to June ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
👥 ~20/year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with merit/need awards. Includes support and enrichment funds for study abroad.
💡
Strategic Detail
Four years of support for first-generation students: scholarship aid, a laptop, a peer mentor, dedicated staff, leadership and career programming, and funding to study through one of Syracuse's off-campus programs. Syracuse does not publish the scholarship amount.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
About 20 incoming first-generation students a year, chosen on accomplishments, financial need, leadership potential and resilience.
Automaticneed based
S. Louise and Howard Phanstiel Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: No application; considered at admission · 📢 Results: With admission decision ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Middle-income leadership scholarship for U.S. citizen students.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Combines with other Syracuse aid up to the cost of attendance.
💡
Strategic Detail
Provides financial assistance to Syracuse students from middle-income backgrounds. Scholars benefit financially and gain access to a mentor network supporting them through their undergraduate years.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
U.S. citizen students from middle-income families with strong academics and community leadership. The award comes with a mentor network.
App Required
AmeriCorps Alumni Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Mar 1 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with other aid up to tuition. Recognizes community service commitment.
📄
How to Apply
Submit AmeriCorps program participation statement (endorsed by AmeriCorps director) to Financial Aid Office by March 1 after SU admission.
Selection criteria: Verified AmeriCorps service.
💡
Strategic Detail
Syracuse awards AmeriCorps alumni a scholarship (combined with Syracuse merit, if any) equal to at least half of tuition. Renewable for four years.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: AmeriCorps participants whose program director verifies their participation and standing.
Full RideApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Onlyidentity basedpipeline
Haudenosaunee Promise
📅 Deadline: Promise application + Certificate of Eligibility; FAFSA and CSS Profile by aid deadlines ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Ride
tuition_fees
✔ Stackable
⚠ Full ride for certified Haudenosaunee citizens living on eligible nation territories.
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Federal and state aid is coordinated with the scholarship so total aid stays within the cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Be admitted, submit the Haudenosaunee Promise application and Certificate of Eligibility, and file the FAFSA and CSS Profile by Syracuse's published deadlines (Nov 1 for Early Action/Early Decision, Jan 5 for Regular Decision).
Selection criteria: Verified tribal status and full-time enrollment.
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers tuition, housing, food and mandatory fees as outlined in Syracuse's cost of attendance, for each year of full-time undergraduate study. Requires certified citizenship in one of the six Haudenosaunee nations and at least four years of residence on an eligible territory before and during enrollment.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Admitted first-year and transfer students who are certified citizens of the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca or Tuscarora nations and live on an eligible territory.
Full TuitionApp Requiredidentity based
Haudenosaunee Honor Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 15 ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
✔ Stackable
⚠ Tuition and fees for three Haudenosaunee citizens a year who do not meet Promise residency rules.
👥 ~3/year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers tuition and mandatory fees; housing and food are not included.
📄
How to Apply
Be admitted (Early Decision, Regular Decision or transfer), submit the Haudenosaunee Honor Application by March 15 (December 15 for Early Decision), and file the FAFSA and CSS Profile by Syracuse's published deadlines.
💡
Strategic Detail
Created in 2013 for certified Haudenosaunee citizens who do not meet the residency requirement of the Haudenosaunee Promise. Covers tuition and mandatory fees for each year of full-time undergraduate study. Three are awarded each year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Certified citizens of the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca or Tuscarora nations who live off territory and are pursuing a first bachelor's degree.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Onlyidentity basedneed based
Indigenous Pathways Grant
📅 Deadline: File FAFSA and CSS Profile by aid deadlines ✓ Renews
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Need-based grant for Indigenous students from the U.S. and Canada.
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Need-based; combined with your other Syracuse aid up to the cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Contact Syracuse's Native American Liaison in the Office of Admissions (tbluewol@syr.edu, 315.443.4844) or the Office of Financial Aid, and file the FAFSA and CSS Profile.
💡
Strategic Detail
Need-based grant started in fall 2020 for Indigenous students from the U.S. and Canada who (or whose parent or grandparent) are officially enrolled in a state- or federally recognized tribe or Nation. Need is reassessed each year through your aid applications.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Enrolled tribal citizens, or children and grandchildren of enrolled citizens, with documented financial need.
App Requiredidentity basedmajor
Indigenous Teacher Preparation Fund Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Certificate of Eligibility / Scholarship Application with admission ✓ Renews
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Up to 30% of tuition for Indigenous future teachers in the School of Education.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Combines with other Syracuse aid; eligible students can also hold the Indigenous Pathways Grant.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the Indigenous Teacher Preparation Fund Certificate of Eligibility/Scholarship Application, be admitted to an eligible School of Education program, and file aid applications by Syracuse's deadlines.
💡
Strategic Detail
For Native American students preparing to become inclusive education teachers in the School of Education's Inclusive Childhood Education or Inclusive Adolescent Education programs. Pays up to 30% of tuition, with preference for Haudenosaunee students. Recipients must stay full-time and meet satisfactory academic progress.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Certified citizens of a U.S. Indigenous Nation or Canadian First Nation entering a School of Education teacher-prep major, with preference for Haudenosaunee students.
App Requiredgeographicpipeline
Liberty Partnerships Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb 1 · 📢 Results: With or after admission decision ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Pipeline scholarship for Liberty Partnerships Program participants.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Combines with other Syracuse and state aid up to the cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Submit a statement of participation endorsed by the coordinator of your Liberty Partnerships Program. Follow the directions on the form at the time you apply to Syracuse.
💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Syracuse offers a Liberty Partnerships Scholarship (combined with Syracuse merit and need-based grant, if any) equal to at least half of tuition for students who took part in a New York State Liberty Partnerships Program. Renewable for four years under standard renewal rules.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Active participants in a New York State Liberty Partnerships Program who are admitted to Syracuse.
Full TuitionApp Requiredgeographicneed basedpipeline
On Point for College Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Apr 15 · 📢 Results: After admission and statement submission ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
meets_full_need
✔ Stackable
⚠ Pipeline program for active On Point for College students.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Syracuse layers institutional scholarship and grants on top of Pell, NYS TAP, and other aid to ensure at least full tuition is covered.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the On Point for College Program statement of participation form, available at your local On Point program site. The statement must be endorsed by the Syracuse On Point Program Director and submitted to the Syracuse Office of Financial Aid by April 15.
💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Syracuse meets the full demonstrated need of admitted, active On Point for College students, with a minimum of full tuition covered by the combination of federal Pell, NYS TAP, and Syracuse scholarship and grants. Renewable for four years under standard scholarship renewal policies.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Active On Point for College students in Syracuse, Utica, New York City (Goddard Riverside Settlement and New Settlement partnerships) who are admitted to Syracuse University.
App Requiredgeographicpipelineneed based
Syracuse Challenge
📅 Deadline: 8th grade agreement / final review at SU application · 📢 Results: Upon SU admission ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Syracuse City School District pipeline — 8th grade agreement required.
✎ ~23 ACT✎ ~1100 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Syracuse builds an individualized financial aid package based on family financial circumstances — designed to ensure enrollment at Syracuse is affordable. Stacks with state, federal, and Syracuse aid.
📄
How to Apply
Sign the Syracuse Challenge agreement with the Syracuse City School District in 8th grade. Through high school, maintain at least an 85% average each year, earn a New York State Regents Diploma with advanced designation, and achieve at least an 1100 SAT (critical reading + math) or 23 ACT composite.
💡
Strategic Detail
A long-term partnership between the Syracuse City School District and Syracuse University. Students who meet the agreement criteria are guaranteed admission to the College of Arts and Sciences (or another college if qualified) and receive an individualized financial aid package designed to make Syracuse affordable.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Syracuse City School District students who committed to the Challenge in 8th grade and followed through with the required academic benchmarks across all four high school years.
Full RideAutomaticgeographicpipeline
Syracuse University Co-Generation Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Identified through Syracuse Housing Authority and Admissions ✓ Renews
Full Ride
✔ Stackable
⚠ Full ride for selected students from the neighborhood bordering campus.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers the full billed cost plus a book allowance.
💡
Strategic Detail
For selected students from the neighborhood bounded by South Salina Street, East Castle Street, Renwick Avenue and East Adams Street. Covers full tuition, fees, room and board, plus a book allowance. Syracuse does not publish separate renewal terms.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students from the specific Syracuse neighborhood bordering campus, identified with the Syracuse Housing Authority.
📅 Deadline: Contact Office of Metropolitan Admissions ✓ Renews
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ At least half tuition for Today's Students, Tomorrow's Teachers participants.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Combined with Syracuse merit to reach at least half of tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Candidates are reviewed by Syracuse's Director of Metropolitan Admissions in New York City (sulubin@syr.edu, 212.826.0320).
💡
Strategic Detail
Today's Students, Tomorrow's Teachers recruits and mentors high school students, especially students of color, into teaching. Syracuse offers a TSTT Scholarship (combined with Syracuse merit, if any) equal to at least half the cost of tuition. Syracuse does not publish separate renewal terms.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: TSTT program participants who are admitted to Syracuse.
Automaticpipelineneed based
KIPP Partnership Aid Package
📅 Deadline: File FAFSA and CSS Profile by aid deadlines ✓ Renews
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Full-need aid package for KIPP charter school graduates.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Built as a full-need package combining federal, state and Syracuse aid.
💡
Strategic Detail
Syracuse partners with KIPP public charter schools to offer a financial aid package that strives to meet the full need of KIPP students, who come from low-income families. Syracuse does not publish separate renewal terms.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: KIPP charter school graduates from low-income families admitted to Syracuse.
Full TuitionAutomaticidentity based
Syracuse University Refugee Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Normal admission and aid deadlines (Nov 1 / Jan 5) ✓ Renews (2.75 GPA)
Full Tuition
✔ Stackable
⚠ Full tuition and fees for admitted refugee students.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Federal and state grants count first; Syracuse fills the rest up to full tuition and fees.
💡
Strategic Detail
Administered by the Office of Admissions with the Office of Financial Aid. Covers full tuition and fees through a combination of federal, state and University grant and scholarship sources. Renewal requires a 2.75 cumulative GPA and at least 12 credits per semester.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with refugee status admitted to Syracuse. Contact Admissions for current eligibility details.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Our Time Has Come Scholarship
📅 Deadline: See OTHC program application ✓ Renews
Varies
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with university merit, state, or outside awards, up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Students join OTHC through a program application. Syracuse does not publish award amounts or deadlines online; contact ourtimehascome@syr.edu or 315.247.7667 for the current cycle.
Selection criteria: Academic, service, and leadership review.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Leadership, mentoring and alumni-networking program. Participants may be eligible for an Our Time Has Come Scholarship that recognizes academic achievement, leadership and community involvement. Amounts vary and are not published.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Active OTHC program participants with strong academics, leadership and community involvement.
Automatic
Invest in Success Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Automatic after first semester ✓ Renews (3.25 GPA)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Added after your first semester; total aid cannot exceed the cost of attendance.
💡
Strategic Detail
Awarded to first-year and transfer students in good standing who complete 15 or more credits with at least a 3.75 GPA in their first semester at Syracuse. Renewal requires 30 credits a year and a 3.25 cumulative GPA. Students who miss the first-semester mark cannot be reconsidered later. Syracuse does not publish the amount.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who take 15 or more credits and earn a 3.75+ GPA in their very first semester.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Scholarship in Action Merit Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Apr 10 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 2 yrs)
$6,000/yr
✔ Stackable
⚠ Upperclass award for students who entered without Syracuse merit aid.
👥 ~11/year winners/yr🎓 UpperclassmenMust have entered Syracuse without an SU merit scholarship.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Reserved for students who entered without a Syracuse merit scholarship.
📄
How to Apply
After two years at Syracuse, submit the Scholarship in Action Merit Scholarship Application by the April deadline. You need junior status, a 3.0 GPA and evidence of putting your studies to work in the community.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Eleven upperclass students a year receive $6,000: three from Arts and Sciences and one from each of the other eight undergraduate schools and colleges. Juniors receive it for two years, seniors for one. Rising juniors who miss out can reapply for senior year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Rising juniors who arrived without merit aid but have built a strong record (3.0+ GPA) of applying their studies in real-world ways.
App Required⚠ Senior Only
Remembrance Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 21 Non-Renewable
$5,000
✔ Stackable
👥 ~35/year winners/yr🎓 Senior
✚
Stacking & Combining
Awarded for senior year alongside your existing aid, within the cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Apply during junior year while the online application is open (November 18 through January 21). A preview of the application is available year-round at remembrance.syr.edu.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Honors the 35 Syracuse students killed in the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland. Each year 35 seniors receive $5,000 for distinguished academic achievement, citizenship and community service. Syracuse calls it one of the highest awards a student can receive.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Rising seniors with standout academics plus a real record of citizenship and service.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
SOURCE Undergraduate Research Grants
📅 Deadline: Bridge: mid-July, late Oct, early Apr; Fellowship: Feb Non-Renewable
$250–$5,000
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Pays project costs; separate from tuition aid.
📄
How to Apply
Find a faculty mentor, then apply in the matching SOURCE cycle with a project proposal and budget.
Selection criteria: Project/research review by committee.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
The SOURCE, Syracuse's undergraduate research office, funds student projects: Explore grants up to $250 for first- and second-year students new to research, Bridge awards up to $2,000 per semester, and Fellowships up to $5,000 for second-year students and up.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with a faculty mentor and a clear, well-scoped research or creative project.
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
Syracuse Abroad Global Access Award
📅 Deadline: No separate application Non-Renewable
$3,000
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Applied to program costs alongside your regular Syracuse aid.
💡
Strategic Detail
Need-based award of up to $3,000 for a fall semester abroad or $1,000 for spring, for full-time undergraduates. Syracuse institutional aid also travels to Syracuse Abroad Centers and World Partner programs, generally for one semester.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Full-time undergraduates with financial need heading abroad for a semester.
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Army/Air Force ROTC
📅 Deadline: National Army / Air Force ROTC scholarship deadlines ✓ Renews
Full Tuition
tuition_or_room_board_plus_stipend
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Syracuse's housing and meal assistance comes on top of the military tuition scholarship.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Army or Air Force ROTC program, complete national ROTC scholarship application (Oct–Jan deadlines). If selected: sign ROTC contract, enroll full-time, and meet progression standards.
The Army and Air Force decide who receives ROTC scholarships and how much. Syracuse adds its own assistance toward housing and meals for ROTC scholarship recipients, per the University's cost of attendance.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Contracted ROTC cadets who meet fitness, GPA, and leadership requirements.
Data last verified Oct 1, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Money the college does not control. Federal programs, city promise funds, foundations, and employers. The college may help you apply, but someone else writes the check, and these almost always stack with the college's own awards.
Say Yes to Education (Syracuse, Buffalo, Cleveland, Guilford)
📅 Deadline: Say Yes application + FAFSA and CSS Profile each year ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
last_dollar_tuition
✔ Stackable
⚠ Tuition coverage for graduates of Say Yes partner districts (Syracuse, Buffalo, Cleveland, Guilford).
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Last-dollar covers any published tuition shortfall after other federal, state, or institutional grants/scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Complete the Say Yes online application, then file the FAFSA and CSS Profile every year. Income limits vary by Say Yes city.
Selection criteria: Automatic review of eligibility and need.
💡
Strategic Detail
Syracuse participates in Say Yes programs for graduates of Syracuse, Buffalo, Cleveland and Guilford County (NC) partner schools. Syracuse's scholarship page lists income caps of under $100,000 for Say Yes Buffalo and under $75,000 for Cleveland and Guilford, based on the CSS Profile. Say Yes Syracuse states that Syracuse University applies no income cap for its graduates. Tuition is covered through a combination of NYS TAP, Syracuse merit and Syracuse grant funding.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Graduates of Say Yes partner high schools who complete the Say Yes application and file the FAFSA and CSS Profile on time.
Data last verified Oct 1, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
❓ Hidden Gems FAQ
Is there help for middle-income families who don’t qualify for much need-based aid?
Yes, and you don’t apply for it. The Phanstiel Scholars Program supports U.S. citizen students from middle-income families with strong academics and leadership, and Syracuse considers students at admission. Scholars do a little community service and a financial literacy program each year.
What is the Kessler Scholars Program?
It’s for first-generation students (neither parent has a four-year degree). About 20 incoming students a year get scholarship aid, a laptop, a peer mentor, and funding to study off campus. There’s no separate application. Invitations go out from early May through late June, so watch email after deposit day.
Does ROTC cover more than tuition at Syracuse?
It can. The Army or Air Force decides the tuition scholarship, and Syracuse adds its own help toward housing and meals for ROTC scholarship holders. That’s a big deal at a school where housing and food run over $20,000 a year.
What is the Haudenosaunee Promise?
A full ride (tuition, housing, food, and mandatory fees) for certified citizens of the six Haudenosaunee nations who’ve lived on an eligible territory for at least four years. Students who don’t meet that residency rule can apply for the Haudenosaunee Honor Scholarship (tuition and fees, three a year, due March 15 or December 15 for Early Decision).
Can my student still get scholarships after freshman year?
Yes. Invest in Success (after a strong first semester), Scholarship in Action (for students who entered without merit), and the Remembrance Scholarship (senior year) are all earned on campus. SOURCE research grants are open to every class year.
Renée Crown University Honors Program at Syracuse University
Syracuse runs a university-wide Honors Program (a program, not a separate college). Students in any of Syracuse’s schools can join. It means smaller, deeper classes, close faculty contact, optional honors housing, and a senior thesis. Honors itself isn’t a scholarship. Its real money value is the research and travel funding listed below.
Invited automatically: 1870 Scholarship recipients get a direct invitation from Admissions (they confirm with an RSVP form). Coronat Scholars are admitted to Honors as part of their award.
Everyone else: incoming students who want a more rigorous experience are welcome to apply. Admission is competitive, and the Office of Admissions handles it (orange@syr.edu).
Already enrolled? Current Syracuse students have their own route in through the Honors office.
⚠ Enrichment grant for active Honors students only.
🎓 All UndergradMust be a matriculated Syracuse student in good standing in the Renée Crown University Honors Program and registered full-time during the award semester.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Supplemental grant; combines with your other Syracuse aid. You can only hold one Honors/SOURCE/University Grant at a time, and the program prioritizes students who haven't been previously funded.
📄
How to Apply
Active Honors students in good standing submit a proposal and budget through the Honors Academic Enhancement Award application — choose one of three tracks: Study Abroad, Research, or Professional Development (conferences, internships, etc.).
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Up to $2,000 per award (maximum of three awards) for study abroad, research, or professional development such as conferences and internships. First-time applicants get priority. Recipients submit an Award Report and present at the Honors Research Fair or community events.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Active Honors students in good standing with a well-defined project and clear engagement in Honors community life.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Onlyhonors
Renée Crown Thesis Funding
📅 Deadline: Per Honors thesis funding cycle Non-Renewable
$7,500
✔ Stackable
⚠ Thesis research funding for active Honors students only.
🎓 All UndergradMust be an Honors student in good standing with an approved thesis project.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Combines with other research awards and academic scholarships; subject to the one-grant-at-a-time rule for Honors/SOURCE/University Grants.
📄
How to Apply
Honors students with an approved thesis project submit a funding proposal with faculty endorsement through the Honors thesis funding portal.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Up to $7,500 toward thesis research costs. Umbrella for the Crown Awards, the Wise-Marcus 50-Year Friendship Awards, and the Parker Award for Women in Science. Covers research materials, travel and, in some cases, summer living expenses. An Award Report and Honors Research Fair presentation are required after completion.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students actively progressing on a faculty-supervised thesis project.
Data last verified Oct 1, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
*Award caps reflect Syracuse’s current published limits. Actual awards depend on the project, budget and available funding each cycle.*
Deadline Note: Academic Enhancement Awards (up to $2,000 each, three per student max) run on three cycles: November 1 for spring, April 1 for summer, and July 1 for fall. First-time applicants get priority, so it pays to apply early in the Honors years.
Funding Beyond the Honors Office
Honors Study Abroad Grants: up to $2,000 one-time through Syracuse Abroad for eligible Honors students.
SOURCE Research Grants: Bridge awards up to $2,000 a semester and Fellowships up to $5,000, open to Honors and non-Honors students.
Coronat Scholars: already include funded study abroad and summer opportunities on top of Honors.
Honors Program FAQs (Syracuse University)
Is Honors admission automatic?
Only for 1870 Scholarship recipients (by invitation) and Coronat Scholars. Other students can apply, and admission is competitive.
Does being in Honors come with a scholarship?
Not directly. The money comes through Academic Enhancement Awards (up to $2,000 each) and Crown thesis funding (up to $7,500), plus Honors study abroad grants.
Can students in any major join Honors?
Yes. Honors draws students from across Syracuse’s schools and colleges, and the thesis can be in any field.
What does Honors actually require?
A set of honors courses with a mix of breadth and depth, community and civic engagement, and a senior thesis. Honors students also get dedicated advising.
Who should we contact with questions?
Incoming students: Office of Admissions (orange@syr.edu, 315.443.3611). General Honors questions: honors@syr.edu.
Syracuse is a big private research university in Central New York, known for professional schools that students enter from day one. Your student applies straight into a school (communications, architecture, management, engineering, information studies, the arts) instead of picking a major later. That shapes everything from the application to which scholarships they can get.
Nationally Known Program: Newhouse School of Public Communications: Syracuse’s best-known name. Newhouse covers journalism, broadcast and digital media, advertising, public relations, film, and more. It has a huge alumni network in media and entertainment, and many families choose Syracuse specifically for it.
School of Architecture: A five-year B.Arch program with its own full-tuition scholarship and a portfolio-driven admission process.
Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs: Best known for its graduate public affairs programs. Undergrads reach it through shared A&S | Maxwell majors like political science, economics, policy studies and international relations, which is also the doorway to the Coronat Scholarship.
School of Information Studies (iSchool): One of the first information schools in the country. Popular for information technology, data, cybersecurity and tech management paths.
College of Visual and Performing Arts: Drama, musical theater, music (Setnor School), design, film and art, all with audition or portfolio-based scholarships.
Whitman School of Management and College of Engineering and Computer Science: Solid professional programs. Engineering has its own set of entry scholarships for FIRST, VEX, ACE Mentor and Project Lead The Way students.
🔗 Official Syracuse University Links
Use Syracuse’s official resources below to verify admissions details, scholarship and aid policies, costs, and key data. Always rely on these pages for final deadlines, award terms, and official institutional information.
Big picture? Syracuse is a “show us who you are” school, not a “hit this number” school. There’s no merit chart, most admitted students apply test-optional, and the money is decided the moment the application is read. That means the application itself, plus a November 1 date and two aid forms filed on time, is the whole scholarship strategy.
The sticker price is steep (over $90,000 in direct costs), and merit stops at tuition, so housing and food come down to the CSS Profile. Where Syracuse really shines is the depth of its “second look” money: full-tuition shots through the 1870, Coronat and Architecture awards; a long list of pipeline partners from Say Yes to the Haudenosaunee Promise; and awards like Invest in Success and Scholarship in Action that reward students who prove themselves after they arrive. If your student is set on Newhouse, Architecture, Maxwell or the iSchool, go early, file everything, and make sure they know about that first-semester 3.75.
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Leo Dimilo
Leo is the founder of CollegeReadyParent. He built this site after working through college costs firsthand with his daughter, and every college page is checked against the school’s own published sources. No paywall, no lead generation, just the details parents need.
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