Creighton University Scholarships (2026–2027)
← Back to college scholarships hub • See Nebraska aid & Grants
Last Updated on June 3, 2026
What This Page Covers:- Tuition, housing, and average family net price
- Automatic merit ranges and qualifier benchmarks
- Flagship and hidden-gem awards
- Honors and stacking strategy
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~77%
- Middle 50% ACT: 27.5
- Middle 50% SAT: 1280
- Average GPA: 3.852222
Comparing multiple schools?
Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 Creighton University at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (Next Generation Leaders Program & Scott Scholarship (Heider College of Business – Scott Scholars))
Average Net Price
$34,018/year
Average paid.
Automatic Merit
$3,000–$30,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
24 opportunities
5 automatic · 11 competitive · 7 hidden gem · 1 honors
Merit Evaluation
Holistic Review / Varies
Merit depends on profile rigor.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Dec 1 • FAFSA: Jan 15
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Next Generation Leaders Program & Scott Scholarship (Heider College of Business – Scott Scholars)
Honors College
Honors Program Available
Financial Aid Forms
FAFSA Only
Creighton is one of those private schools where the sticker price looks scary—but the actual price can come down fast. Most students receive automatic merit just for being admitted, and the award ranges are big enough to matter. For strong students, this can turn a private Jesuit school into something much more competitive with public options.
Where families need to stay grounded is at the top end. The full-tuition programs—like the Next Generation Leaders Program—are real, but they’re highly competitive. So the smart play is to treat Creighton as a place where you can reliably get solid merit, with a chance at something bigger if everything lines up—but not something to count on.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes — Creighton University is test-optional.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 27.5; SAT: 1280.
Average net price? About $34,018/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
No — private school; same rate for all.
💰 Cost of Attendance at Creighton University 2026-2027
📅 2026–2027 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2025–2026). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2026–2027 numbers are released.
Planning tip: At large public universities, tuition, fees, and housing usually increase modestly each year (often in the 2–5% range). For early budgeting, families may want to plan for roughly $1,000–$1,500 more in-state or $2,000–$3,000 more out-of-state in total direct costs once new rates are published.
| Category (2026–2027) |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees (2 semesters) |
$50,960 |
$50,960 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$14,453 |
$14,453 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$65,413 |
$65,413 |
Average Federal Net Price: $34,018 — this is what families actually paid after grants and scholarships (no loans), based on the most recent federal data. Your specific cost could be significantly lower or higher depending on your financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
Regional Tuition Programs: Creighton is a private Jesuit university and does not participate in WUE, MSEP, or state reciprocity agreements. Students qualify for the same tuition rate regardless of residency, with primary discounts coming from institutional merit and need-based aid.
FAQ
Who qualifies for lower tuition?
All students pay the same tuition regardless of state residency, but strong academic applicants receive automatic merit awards worth $12,000–$28,000 per year.
How much do most families actually pay?
The average net price is about $34,018 per year after scholarships and grants (College Scorecard).
Do I need the FAFSA or CSS Profile?
Creighton requires only the FAFSA to be considered for need-based aid; the CSS Profile is not required.
Sources:
Creighton University Undergraduate Tuition & Fees — https://www.creighton.edu/cost-aid/tuition-costs/undergraduate-tuition
Creighton University Cost of Attendance — https://www.creighton.edu/cost-aid/find-costs
Creighton Scholarships — https://www.creighton.edu/cost-aid/types-aid/scholarships
College Scorecard — https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?181002-Creighton-University
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
Creighton reviews every first-year application for merit aid automatically—no separate form needed. Awards are holistic, factoring in academics (GPA, rigor), test scores if submitted, and overall leadership/service. The strongest applicants may receive up to full tuition.
Automatic
Creighton Merit Scholarship – Tier 1
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Scholarship level is released with the admission decision, typically 4–6 weeks after a complete application.
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$20,000–$30,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
General Creighton merit scholarships cannot be combined with other Creighton merit awards but may be combined with need-based aid up to cost of attendance.
💡
Strategic Detail
Creighton does not publish a public merit grid — awards are determined holistically case by case. This tier models the highest typical automatic merit range. Exact amounts and renewal requirements are spelled out in each student’s individual award letter.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
The top slice of the incoming class — students with near-perfect GPAs, the most rigorous coursework available, and standout leadership and service records. If your student is in that conversation, this is the range to aim for.
Automatic
Creighton Merit Scholarship – Tier 2
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Award level is communicated with the admission decision on a rolling basis.
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$15,000–$19,999/yr
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Counts as a primary Creighton merit scholarship and generally cannot be stacked with other Creighton merit awards, but may be combined with need-based funding.
💡
Strategic Detail
Represents a common mid-range award for strong applicants. Creighton does not publish exact GPA or test score bands; amounts are determined case by case and confirmed in the award letter.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-achieving students whose academic profile and leadership record are well above Creighton’s typical admit — just a step below the very top tier. A strong applicant with a compelling application can realistically land here.
Automatic
Creighton Merit Scholarship – Tier 3
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Included in the admission and financial award notification.
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$8,000–$14,999/yr
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Functions as the primary Creighton merit scholarship for many solid admits; not stackable with other Creighton merit programs but can be combined with need-based aid.
💡
Strategic Detail
Part of Creighton’s general automatic merit range. Exact amounts and cutoffs vary by applicant and year and are not published as a fixed grid.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Well-prepared students with solid GPAs, rigorous coursework, and some meaningful leadership or service experience — typically in the broad middle band of Creighton’s admitted class. This is where a lot of good applicants land.
Automatic
Creighton Merit Scholarship – Tier 4
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Communicated in the admission and scholarship package.
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$3,000–$7,999/yr
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Smallest standard Creighton merit level; may not be combined with other Creighton merit scholarships but can be paired with need-based aid.
💡
Strategic Detail
Reflects the lower end of Creighton’s automatic merit range. Exact award amounts and renewal criteria are detailed in individual award letters rather than on the public site.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Admitted students with solid but comparatively modest academic profiles who still demonstrate clear readiness for Creighton’s rigorous curriculum. Even at the entry level, this award adds up to $12,000–$32,000 over four years.
Automatic
Creighton National Merit Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Follow National Merit first-choice designation deadlines and Creighton admission deadlines. · 📢 Results: Award notification follows confirmation of Finalist status, first-choice designation, and admission to Creighton.
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Creighton-sponsored National Merit awards are treated as institutional merit aid and typically cannot be combined with other Creighton merit scholarships, but may be paired with need-based aid.
💡
Strategic Detail
Creighton is an official National Merit sponsor. The institution does not publish a specific dollar amount — award values are coordinated with other institutional merit packages and confirmed in the individual award letter.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: National Merit Finalists who list Creighton as their first-choice school with NMSC and then enroll. The gate here is entirely the National Merit process — if your student has Finalist status and loves Creighton, this is worth pursuing.
* 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.
Also offered: Creighton is a National Merit sponsor. Finalists who select Creighton as their first choice may receive a university-sponsored National Merit award — see full National Merit details on the NMSC and Creighton websites.
*GPA/test score bands are based on observed Creighton and national reporting, but awards are holistic and competitive.
Sources:
Creighton University Scholarships — https://www.creighton.edu/admission/financial-aid-costs/scholarships
Creighton National Merit Scholarships — https://www.creighton.edu/admission/financial-aid-costs/scholarships/national-merit-scholarships
Creighton Scholarship Renewal Policy — https://www.creighton.edu/financial-aid/renewal
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
These selective awards require extra steps like essays, interviews, or program applications, and only a limited number of students are chosen. Apply to Creighton by December 1 and complete program applications by January 10 through your New Student Portal.
App Required
Christina M. Hixson Scholarship in Business
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Scholarship decisions are typically released in spring before enrollment.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Awards $5,000 per year to academically motivated business students from specified Midwestern states; may stack with other awards subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to the Heider College of Business and complete the Christina M. Hixson Scholarship application through the New Student Portal. File the FAFSA by January 15 to document financial need.
Selection criteria: Selection based on GPA, state of residence, and demonstrated financial need.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Awards $5,000 annually to academically motivated incoming freshmen business students from designated Midwestern states who demonstrate financial need and meet GPA requirements. FAFSA must be filed by Jan 15.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming business students from Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, or Wyoming with at least a 3.0 GPA and demonstrated financial need. If your student is from the Midwest, heading into business, and has a FAFSA on file, this one is very much in reach.
App Required
Freshman Leadership Program
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Program decisions are typically released in mid-February.
Non-Renewable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
No tuition scholarship attached; program participation is compatible with all financial aid. FLP is a one-year program and does not extend beyond freshman year.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for undergraduate admission by December 1. Complete the Freshman Leadership Program application in the New Student Portal by January 10. No interview is required for this program.
Selection criteria: Selection based on interest in leadership development and community engagement; no interview required.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
The Freshman Leadership Program is a nationally recognized one-year living-learning community. Members live together in the residence halls, enroll in a shared leadership course, complete a leadership portfolio project, participate in community service, and attend leadership-focused events. No academic threshold is required; no interview is needed. Part of the Distinguished Scholars Program umbrella for application purposes.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming students who want to live in a community of future leaders from day one. FLP members share a residence hall, take a leadership course together, complete a leadership portfolio project, and do community service as a cohort — it’s a built-in friend group and leadership lab rolled into one.
App Required
Harper Nursing Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Program and scholarship decisions are typically released in mid-February.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$40,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Harper Scholars receive a $40,000 annual education scholarship and leadership programming; the award generally replaces standard merit scholarships but may be coordinated with need-based aid.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to the College of Nursing by December 1, then complete the Harper Nursing Scholars application in the New Student Portal by January 10. Selected applicants interview as part of the Distinguished Scholars process.
Selection criteria: Holistic review of academic excellence, leadership, service, and potential as an ethical nurse leader.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Harper Nursing Scholars is Creighton’s premier nationally competitive nursing scholarship and leadership program, awarding $40,000 per year for four years to 7–8 students annually. The program includes career development, mentorship, advocacy, service learning, and enrichment retreats.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Seven to eight nursing students selected each year for academic strength, commitment to nursing leadership, and alignment with Jesuit values. With $160,000 over four years, this is one of the most valuable nursing scholarships at any private university.
App Required
Heider College of Business Ethics and Social Responsibility Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Scholarship decisions are typically released in mid-February.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Provides a $2,500 annual scholarship recognizing exceptional service and leadership; may stack with other awards subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to the Heider College of Business by December 1, then submit the Ethics and Social Responsibility Scholarship application through the New Student Portal by January 10. Applicants complete an interview and case study as part of the selection process.
Selection criteria: Selection based on service accomplishments, leadership potential, and fit with business ethics and social responsibility themes; includes an ethics case study challenge.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Scholarship recognizes students for exceptional service accomplishments and leadership potential in the context of business ethics and social responsibility. Selection involves both an interview and an ethics case study challenge.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming business students who have real service and leadership credentials — not just club memberships — and can articulate a genuine commitment to ethical business practices. The case study component means you’re being evaluated on how you think, not just what you’ve done.
App Required
Heider Fellows Program
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Program decisions are typically released in mid-February.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.8+ GPA✎ ~28 ACT✎ ~1300 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
No standalone tuition scholarship; program benefits including executive access, networking, and internship placement are available alongside any other financial aid the student receives.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to the Heider College of Business by December 1. Complete the Heider Fellows Program application through the New Student Portal by January 10. Applicants must complete an interview and an ethics case study challenge; details are provided after the application is submitted.
Selection criteria: Selection based on academic achievement, leadership potential, ethical reasoning, and fit with the Heider Fellows cohort; includes a case study challenge.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
The Heider Fellows Program is the business school’s equivalent of an honors program — a four-year professional development and mentorship cohort. Two tracks exist: Dean’s Fellows (face time with the dean, executive conversations, Fortune 500 tours, alumni networking) and Menard Scholars (self-directed advanced research in business with special faculty and alumni access). No separate tuition scholarship attached; eligibility requires a 3.8 GPA or 28 ACT/1300 SAT. Interview and ethics case study are required.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-achieving Heider business admits with a 3.8+ GPA or 28+ ACT/1300+ SAT who want more than classroom learning — students ready to engage with Fortune 500 executives, Omaha alumni networks, and advanced research from day one. Two tracks: Dean’s Fellows (leadership/networking emphasis) or Menard Scholars (business research emphasis).
Automatic
Muchemore Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Mar 1 (FAFSA priority deadline)
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.3+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Award may not be combined with other Creighton merit scholarships but can be layered with additional need-based aid. Renewal requires filing the FAFSA each year.
💡
Strategic Detail
Funded by the G. Robert Muchemore Foundation, this $32,000 renewable tuition award is for four years. The admission application doubles as the scholarship application — the only extra requirement is filing the FAFSA by Mar 1.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Nebraska high school graduates whose academic profile puts them in roughly the top 3% of Creighton’s incoming class and who demonstrate financial need. If you’re a strong Nebraska student and need assistance, don’t skip the FAFSA — this one is worth $128,000 over four years.
Automatic
Native American Merit Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Mar 1 (FAFSA and documentation deadline)
✓ Renews (2.75 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.3+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Award may be combined with need-based aid but not with other Creighton merit scholarships. Renewal requires maintaining a minimum 2.75 college GPA and filing the FAFSA each year.
💡
Strategic Detail
Creighton describes these as $32,000 renewable tuition awards for students meeting specific academic, financial, first-generation, and tribal enrollment criteria. Continued eligibility is based on a minimum 2.75 college GPA and annual FAFSA filing.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
First-generation, Pell-eligible Native American students with documented tribal enrollment, at least a 3.3 high school GPA, and a demonstrated commitment to diversity and leadership. This is one of the most targeted — and most meaningful — scholarships Creighton offers.
Full TuitionApp Requiredpipeline
Next Generation Leaders Program
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Program and scholarship decisions are typically released in mid-February.
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full tuition scholarship with four-year leadership program
✘ Not stackable
⚠ Competitive leadership cohort where selected students receive a full‑tuition scholarship for four years and specialized leadership programming; families still pay for housing and meals
🏫 3.8+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Full-tuition award that replaces standard Creighton merit scholarships; may be combined with need-based aid up to the cost of attendance but not with other institutional merit awards.
📄
How to Apply
Complete the Common Application or Bluejay Premier Application to Creighton by December 1, then submit the separate Next Generation Leaders Program application in the New Student Portal by January 10, including required essays and materials. Selected applicants are invited to interview as part of the Distinguished Scholars process.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing academic excellence, demonstrated leadership, service, and alignment with Creighton’s Jesuit, Catholic values; interviews assess leadership potential and program fit.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Recipients receive a full-tuition scholarship for four years (eight consecutive semesters) plus structured leadership development, coaching, group service projects, and connections to the Omaha professional community. Open to any undergraduate college. Renewal requires maintaining standard academic progress, good conduct standing, and regular program participation.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming students with at least a 3.8 GPA who meet at least two of three criteria: first-generation, financial need, or exceptional leadership at the high school, local, regional, or national level. This isn’t just an academic award — Creighton is specifically looking for students who will change the culture on campus and in their careers.
Full RideApp Required
Scott Scholarship (Heider College of Business – Scott Scholars)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Program and scholarship decisions are typically released in mid-February.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Ride
full tuition, fees, and on-campus room and board scholarship with leadership program
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.8+ GPA✎ ~28 ACT✎ ~1300 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers full tuition, mandatory fees, and on-campus room and board for four years. Replaces other Creighton merit awards; may be combined with limited need-based aid up to the cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to the Heider College of Business by December 1, then complete the Scott Scholars/Distinguished Scholars application in the New Student Portal by January 10. Eligible students participate in interviews as part of Distinguished Scholars Interview Day.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing academic excellence, leadership, entrepreneurship, and commitment to purposeful business careers.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
The Scott Scholarship — sponsored by the Suzanne & Walter Scott Foundation and Creighton — provides full tuition, mandatory University fees, and on-campus room and board for four years, along with a structured leadership development program through the Scott Scholars cohort.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: U.S. citizens entering the Heider College of Business with at least a 3.8 GPA and 28 ACT or 1300 SAT, who bring strong entrepreneurial energy, leadership, and a genuine commitment to purposeful business careers. This is Creighton’s top merit award — a true full ride for future business leaders.
App Required
Ashton Welch History Fellows Program
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Selection decisions are typically communicated in mid-February.
✓ Renews (2.75 GPA, 4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Provides $2,500 per year for up to four years ($10,000 total); may stack with other scholarships subject to cost-of-attendance rules.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for undergraduate admission by December 1, then apply for the Ashton Welch History Fellows Program through the New Student Portal by January 10. All eligible applicants must complete an interview (virtual or in-person on campus).
Selection criteria: Selection based on academic preparation in history, potential for research, and engagement with program goals.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Fellows receive up to $10,000 over four years for tuition, research, internships, study abroad, and other approved educational expenses, plus faculty mentoring and specialized programming. Renewal requires declaring a history major by fall of the second year, maintaining at least a 2.75 GPA, and engaging in program activities.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming students who are genuinely passionate about historical research and career preparation in the discipline. The award funds not just tuition but research, internships, and study abroad — making it a launchpad, not just a check.
App Required
College of Arts and Sciences Dean's Fellows Program
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Program decisions are typically released in mid-February.
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.8+ GPA✎ ~28 ACT✎ ~1300 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
No standalone tuition scholarship; fellows are eligible for a $1,000 foreign study stipend and a $250 research/professional development grant that can be combined with other awards.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for undergraduate admission by December 1 and meet the eligibility criteria (3.8 GPA or 28 ACT/1300 SAT). Complete the Dean's Fellows Program application in the New Student Portal by January 10. All applicants must participate in an interview (virtual or in-person on campus during select dates).
Selection criteria: Selection emphasizes servant leadership, engagement with Jesuit values, and potential to contribute to the CAS campus community; interview is required.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
The Dean's Fellows Program is a four-year leadership cohort within the College of Arts and Sciences. Fellows receive access to Dean’s Office support, a special Ratio Studiorum section led by the dean, a Critical Issues in Human Inquiry course, leadership seminars, Loyalty Circles with upperclassmen, a $1,000 foreign study stipend, and a $250 research/professional development grant. Eligibility requirements are assessed annually and may change. Maintaining membership requires a minimum 3.30 GPA and active participation including serving as a student ambassador.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: High-achieving CAS admits with a 3.8+ GPA or 28+ ACT/1300+ SAT who are genuinely committed to servant leadership and want direct access to the dean, faculty, alumni, and Omaha’s professional community. The value here is access and connection, not a big tuition check.
* 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.
Also offered: Creighton is a National Merit sponsor. National Merit Finalists who select Creighton as first choice may receive a Creighton-sponsored award. See our National Merit guide for more.
Do these replace automatic merit? Yes. Competitive scholarships generally replace standard Creighton merit awards rather than stack with them.
What’s the timeline? Apply for admission by December 1, then complete competitive scholarship program applications in the New Student Portal by January 10 (or March 1 FAFSA for aid-based awards).
Are test scores considered? Creighton is test-optional, but if you submit, scores are superscored and can strengthen your case.
Who wins? Usually, students with the strongest academics, commitment to leadership or service, and (sometimes) high need or identity alignment.
Sources:
Creighton University Scholarships — https://www.creighton.edu/admission/financial-aid-costs/scholarships
Creighton Next Generation Leaders — https://www.creighton.edu/admission/financial-aid-costs/scholarships/next-generation-leaders-program
Muchemore and Native American Merit (PDF, see Scholarships page) — https://www.creighton.edu/financial-aid/
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
Beyond the big merit awards, Creighton offers niche programs, identity-based aid, ROTC benefits, and special opportunities that can cover major costs. These often require a separate application or involvement in a specific program.
App Required
Grace Keenan Arts Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Jan 10 (typical Keenan application deadline for incoming freshmen)
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 2.5+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Award is renewable and can be combined with other Creighton scholarships and grants up to the cost of attendance; continued arts participation and, after sophomore year, declaration of an arts major or minor are required.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to Creighton and then complete the Grace Keenan Scholarship application through the New Student Portal by the posted deadline, including a fine and performing arts résumé, scholarship essay, letter of recommendation (optional), and an audition or art portfolio review.
Selection criteria: Faculty review emphasizing artistic excellence, potential for contribution to Creighton’s arts community, and fit with program expectations.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
The Grace Keenan Endowment funds $4,000 renewable scholarships for visual and performing arts students; renewal past sophomore year requires a declared arts major or minor and at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming freshmen who intend to major or minor in visual or performing arts (art, dance, music, theatre, musical theatre) and demonstrate strong artistic talent through their audition or portfolio and supporting materials.
Automaticpipeline
Ignatian Merit Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: March 1 (FAFSA and admission materials for full consideration)
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$25,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
⚠ Named merit program that typically gives about $25,000 per year to top students in certain colleges at Creighton; it greatly reduces costs but is not a clearly documented full‑tuition or full‑ride award.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Ignatian Merit packages are designed to meet a large share of tuition for selected students and typically replace standard Creighton merit awards; they may be combined with need-based grants to reach full tuition but not to exceed cost of attendance.
💡
Strategic Detail
The Ignatian Merit Scholars initiative expands institutional resources for academically talented students with need; Creighton and donor materials describe support that can effectively bring tuition close to fully covered for selected scholars.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-achieving students from low- or middle-income families, often first-generation, who show strong academic performance and significant financial need.
Automatic
Jesuit High School Recognition Award
📅 Deadline: Rolling; preferred final date for admission and scholarship consideration is Mar 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with other Creighton scholarships and grants; it is a recognition add-on applied directly to tuition, not a primary merit award.
💡
Strategic Detail
Creighton’s scholarships page confirms any incoming freshman from a Jesuit high school receives a $1,000 annual award. No separate application required — the admission application is all that’s needed.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Any admitted Creighton student who graduated from a Jesuit high school — this one is automatic. If your student attended a Jesuit school anywhere in the country, $4,000 over four years is already in the package.
App Required
Joella Cohen Journalism/Graphic Design Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Typically March 1 for FAFSA; scholarship application deadlines are listed in the New Student Portal
✓ Renews (2.75 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 2.8+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Scholarship may be combined with other institutional and external aid up to the cost of attendance; continued eligibility requires maintaining the GPA standard, filing the FAFSA each year, and remaining in Journalism or Graphic Design.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to the College of Arts and Sciences with an intended major in Journalism or Graphic Design, then submit the Joella Cohen Scholarship application through the New Student Portal and file the FAFSA by March 1.
Selection criteria: Selection emphasizes academic merit, alignment with Journalism or Graphic Design, and demonstrated financial need.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Endowed by the estate of Joella Cohen, a 1948 Creighton graduate, this $6,000 renewable scholarship supports aspiring journalists and graphic designers; selection considers both academic potential and financial need.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming CAS freshmen intending to major in Journalism or Graphic Design who show strong academic performance and, typically, financial need.
Automatic
Leo Vincent Jacks Classical Languages Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1 (typical priority date mentioned in external listings; Creighton treats admission application as the scholarship application)
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 2.5+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Scholarship is renewable and can be combined with other Creighton scholarships and grants within cost-of-attendance limits; renewal requires continued engagement in the Classical Languages major and strong in-major performance.
💡
Strategic Detail
The Leo Vincent Jacks Scholarship provides $2,000 per year to students majoring in Classical Languages; renewal requires declaring and continuing the major, maintaining a 2.5 overall GPA with a 3.5 in-major, and participating in activities such as research, Eta Sigma Phi, and recruiting.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming freshmen who declare an interest in Classical Languages, pursue the Classical Languages major, and remain actively involved in the department’s academic and co-curricular life.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Study Abroad / ILAC Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Varies by program and term; ILAC awards often use early term-specific deadlines published by the Global Engagement Office.
Non-Renewable
🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
Awards (often up to about $1,200 for ILAC and varying amounts for other programs) can be combined with other aid and are designed to offset travel and program costs rather than regular tuition.
📄
How to Apply
Apply and be accepted to a Creighton-led or approved study abroad program (including ILAC) and then complete the Global Engagement Office or program-specific scholarship application by the posted deadline; students usually must also have a current FAFSA on file to be considered for need-based awards.
Selection criteria: Priority to students with financial need, strong academic standing, and compelling rationale for the study abroad or ILAC program.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Creighton offers multiple small scholarships for global programs, including specific funds for ILAC and other faculty-led experiences; amounts and criteria are subject to annual funding.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students selected for Creighton study abroad or ILAC programs who demonstrate financial need and clear academic or mission-related goals for their international experience.
Full RideApp Required
Army & Air Force ROTC + Creighton Room & Board Supplement
📅 Deadline: Army ROTC high school scholarship boards typically run Oct–Jan; Air Force ROTC high school scholarship applications generally close in the fall or early winter.
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Ride
ROTC tuition or room-and-board scholarship plus books, stipend, and Creighton-funded room and board support
✔ Stackable
🏫 2.5+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Federal ROTC scholarships usually cover full tuition and mandatory fees or a room-and-board option, plus about $1,200 per year for books and a monthly stipend; Creighton’s institutional grant can cover room and board so that tuition, fees, housing, and meals are effectively fully funded, subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for a national Army or Air Force ROTC scholarship through the appropriate service portal, list Creighton as a school of choice, and complete all fitness, medical, and academic requirements; if awarded and you enroll at Creighton, the university supplements the federal ROTC award with institutional room-and-board funding for selected cadets.
Selection criteria: Selection driven by national ROTC board criteria (academics, fitness, leadership) and Creighton’s internal process for awarding room-and-board supplements.
🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Creighton describes enhanced benefits for ROTC scholarship recipients, including university-funded room and board in combination with federal ROTC tuition coverage; details may vary by branch and year, so students should confirm current commitments with the ROTC and Financial Aid offices.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Competitive ROTC cadets with strong academics, leadership, and physical fitness who earn national Army or Air Force ROTC scholarships and enroll at Creighton, especially in high-need majors like nursing.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
SURF Undergraduate Research Fellowship
📅 Deadline: Feb 15 (typical SURF application deadline)
Non-Renewable
🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
Provides a summer stipend (about $6,000) plus up to $500 for supplies; may be combined with other academic honors but generally not with another full-time paid summer position for the same period.
📄
How to Apply
Work with a faculty mentor to design a summer research project, then submit a SURF application through CURAS (Center for Undergraduate Research and Scholarship) by the February deadline, including proposal, budget, and faculty support.
Selection criteria: Review focuses on project quality, feasibility, academic preparation, and strength of faculty mentorship.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
SURF is a competitive summer program funding 10-week research fellowships; amounts and deadlines can vary slightly by year and discipline.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Undergraduates with strong academic records and well-developed faculty-mentored summer research proposals across disciplines.
* 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.
Disclaimer: Awards/GPA cutoffs are from official Creighton sources and external reporting. Some, like Ignatian Merit, may vary based on funding. Confirm current-year details with Creighton.
- Heider Fellows/FLP/TRIO: Leadership, enrichment, and advising programs; may include stipends or support, but no direct tuition award published.
- Need-Based Grants: Awarded via FAFSA for demonstrated need; not a named scholarship.
- Chemistry/Band/Other: Some departments offer research or performance awards—contact major/program for current offers.
Can you stack these awards? Most can be combined with need-based aid; some donor awards cannot stack with full merit.
Do I need to reapply? Many awards are renewable if GPA/program standards are met; one-time research and abroad fellowships require a new proposal each time.
Is Creighton a QuestBridge partner? No—use FAFSA/CSS and Creighton’s own aid programs for need-based support.
Sources:
Creighton Scholarships — https://www.creighton.edu/admission/financial-aid-costs/scholarships
ROTC — https://www.creighton.edu/rotc/scholarships-benefits
Arts, Research, Abroad — https://www.creighton.edu/ccas/fine-and-performing-arts/scholarships, https://www.creighton.edu/geo/abroad, https://www.creighton.edu/curas
Financial Aid — https://www.creighton.edu/financial-aid
🎖️ Honors College / Program
If your student is the type who loves big ideas and small seminars, Creighton’s Honors community can be a great fit. It’s selective, personal, and designed to open doors—priority registration, flexible core, and faculty who’ll know your student well.
Admission model: Invite to apply. Apply to Creighton first (Early Action by Nov 1 is recommended). If invited, complete a short Honors application in your New Student Portal (priority deadline: early January—usually Jan 10–15; check your portal).
What a Typical Creighton Honors Student Looks Like
- Academic signals: HS GPA ≥ 3.7 with ACT ≥ 30 or SAT ≥ 1360; or test-optional route with HS GPA ≥ 3.9.
- Rigor & curiosity: AP/IB/dual enrollment courses if available; strong writing and discussion skills.
- Impact: Leadership, service, research, or creative work that shows initiative.
- Good standing in college: Typically maintain a 3.3 GPA and active Honors seminar engagement.
Perks that matter
- Priority registration for courses.
- Reduced core/exemption pathway for more room to double-major or add minors.
- Tuition waived for credits over 18 per term (for active Honors students).
- Small seminars with close faculty mentorship; Honors living community option.
- Research & funding—Honors students frequently win CURAS, SURF, and other enrichment opportunities.
App Required
College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Program decisions are typically released in mid-February.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
No separate tuition scholarship dollar amount; Honors program benefits including research grants and study abroad stipends are stackable with other institutional awards.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for undergraduate admission by December 1, then submit a separate Honors Program application through the New Student Portal by January 10. An interview is required and can be completed virtually or in-person on campus during select Distinguished Scholars Interview Day dates.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing intellectual curiosity, potential for deep academic engagement, research interest, and fit with the Honors living-learning community.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
The College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program provides a four-year personalized academic experience within CAS, including honors-specific courses, a living-learning community for freshmen on Swanson 9, priority registration, individual faculty advising, and grant-supported research and study abroad opportunities. No fixed minimum GPA or test score is published for admission; selection is holistic and competitive. Part of the Distinguished Scholars Program umbrella.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who thrive on depth over breadth — the kind of kid who wants to stay after class to keep the discussion going. Honors at Creighton is a living, breathing intellectual community with serious access to research, study abroad, and faculty mentorship.
* 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.
Is Honors admission automatic if I’m admitted to Creighton?
No. You must first be invited based on your application, then submit the portal’s Honors application by the priority deadline.
Does Honors add time to the degree?
No. The Honors “reduced core” often gives you more room to explore majors or add a field without extra time.
Do test scores help—and does Creighton superscore?
Test-optional is allowed. If you send scores, Creighton superscores SAT/ACT for both admission and Honors review.
Is there a direct Honors tuition scholarship?
No. Honors does not guarantee extra aid, but students often earn research, enrichment, or competitive award support.
Best timeline?
Apply for admission by Nov 1 or Dec 1, then finish the Honors supplemental app by the Jan 10 (early January) portal deadline.
Related Honors & Leadership Opportunities
- Scott Scholars (Heider College of Business): Full-ride scholarship for business majors (min 3.8 GPA, 28+ ACT or 1300+ SAT, and leadership intent); US citizens only. Separate scholarship application and interview required.
- Heider Fellows Program: Business leadership/development track—offers mentorship and research/enrichment, but no direct tuition award.
- Freshman Leadership Program (FLP): Living-learning community with leadership coursework and service projects. Offers strong networking and leadership development, not a direct tuition scholarship.
Note: These programs are enrichment tracks selected for high-achieving leaders and often overlap with Honors applicants, but are not part of the core Honors curriculum and do not guarantee or require Honors Program admission.
Sources:
Creighton Honors Program — https://www.creighton.edu/ccas/honors/admissions
Application Requirements — https://www.creighton.edu/ccas/honors/admissions
Scott Scholars — https://www.creighton.edu/heider-business/scholarships/scott-scholars
Distinguished Scholars Programs — https://www.creighton.edu/admission/financial-aid-costs/scholarships/distinguished-scholars-programs
⭐ College Specialty
Creighton shines where personal attention meets professional pathways. If your student wants small classes, hands-on learning, and a clear route into health, business, or service-driven careers, this is that kind of campus—professors who know your name, internships that show up early, and programs with a national reputation.
Standout Program: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Known nationally for clinical preparation and outcomes, with extensive hands-on experience built into the curriculum and strong placement pathways.
- Heider College of Business (Accounting, Finance, Business Analytics): AACSB-accredited in both business and accounting; strong internships and employer pipelines.
- Nursing (BSN): Highly regarded undergraduate nursing with direct clinical exposure and strong NCLEX outcomes.
- Physician Assistant & Occupational Therapy: Professional programs with national recognition and robust clinical network access.
- Pre-Health Pathways (Pre-Med, Pre-Dental, PT/PA/OT/Pharmacy): Structured advising communities, application prep, and research opportunities through CURAS.
- Undergraduate Research (CURAS): Funded summer fellowships (e.g., SURF) that put first- and second-years in real labs and faculty projects.
Final Thoughts
Navigating a private school like Creighton doesn’t have to feel impossible. With clear numbers, automatic merit that almost every admitted student receives, and hidden gems like ROTC and Ignatian Merit, the price can come down more than most families expect. If your student is driven toward health, business, or leadership, Creighton is worth a serious look—and now you know exactly where the real savings and opportunities are.
Was this helpful? Share it with another parent who’s comparing college costs!
Back to top ↑
