Oral Roberts University Scholarships (2026–2027) | Merit & Aid Guide

Oral Roberts University Scholarships (2026–2027)

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Last Updated on February 2, 2026
What This Page Breaks Down for Families:
  • What ORU actually costs — and where the biggest discounts come from
  • Which students qualify for automatic merit (and how much it’s really worth)
  • Where competitive and “hidden” scholarships can change the math
  • How Honors, Quest, and other awards usually interact in real offers

📊 Admissions Snapshot

  • Acceptance Rate: 99%
  • Middle 50% ACT: 19–26
  • Middle 50% SAT: 1045–1270
  • Average GPA (HS): 3.53

Source: ORU Office of Admissions & National Center for Education Statistics (2026 projections).

Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →

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ORU at a Glance

Average Net Price
$34,040
Estimated actual cost after grants/aid
Automatic Merit
$6,000–$11,000 / yr
Admission-based; tiers for 2.0–4.0 GPA
Typical Qualifiers
2.0–4.0 GPA • Test-Optional
Merit awarded even at lower GPA tiers
Superscore Policy
ACT: No • SAT: Highest Sitting
Uses highest composite from one date
Key Deadlines
Scholarship priority: Feb 1 • FAFSA: Jan
Rolling admission policy
Honors Program
Yes • Competitive • Separate app
Includes Scholars events and priority perks
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Automatic: No • Competitive: Yes
Quest Whole Leader (select recipients)
Residency & Waivers
N/A
Private university; single tuition rate
– Scholarship GPA/test bands are approximate based on current 5-tier university structure. Numbers can shift with applicant pool and endowment funding.
Sources:
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/undergraduate/scholarships-and-grants/index.php
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/undergraduate/undergraduate-tuition-and-fin-aid-detailed.php
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/oral-roberts-university/admissions
https://oru.edu/admissions/

💰 Cost of Attendance at Oral Roberts University (2026–2027)

These are the direct, billed costs for a full-time undergraduate student living on campus at ORU. Additional expenses like books and personal costs are estimated but not billed directly by the university.

Category Cost (One Rate for All)
Tuition (12–18.5 credit hours) $36,250
Mandatory Fees (Tech, General, Student Activity) $2,180
Housing & Meals (Standard Double) $11,560
Total (Direct/Billed Sticker Price) $49,990

📉 Average Net Price (Class of 2030 Estimate)

The average net price is approximately $34,040 per year for incoming freshmen in the 2026–2027 cycle.
With 93% of students receiving institutional aid, most families find that the automatic merit tiers significantly reduce the $49k sticker price before adding need-based grants.

Out-of-State Savings Note:

ORU is a private university, meaning there is no out-of-state tuition penalty. Students from Mississippi, Texas, or California pay the exact same tuition as those from Oklahoma.

🚀 CRP Strategic Playbook: How Families Win at ORU

At ORU, your strategy should focus on the highest-ceiling award. While merit is automatic, the competitive awards like Quest and Honors can turn a “good deal” into a “full ride.”

⚠️ Stacking & The “Ceiling” Rule
  • The Replacement Rule: Quest Whole Leader awards generally replace academic merit tiers if the Quest amount is higher. They do not stack like coupons.
  • Honors Program: Aiming for Honors Fellows (100% tuition) vs. Scholars (50% tuition) is the biggest financial needle-mover for high-achieving students.
🎯 ORU “Target Numbers” (2026–2027)
  • 4.0 GPA: Locks in $11,000 Tier 1 Merit automatically.
  • 31+ ACT / 1360+ SAT: The gateway for the Honors Fellows (Full Tuition) application.
  • Quest First: A dedicated scholarship for first-generation students that can bridge gaps not covered by standard merit.
🧭 The “Solid B+” Strategy

3.0–3.49 GPA • Test-Optional

  • Get admitted early to secure $9,000 Tier 3 Merit.
  • Focus on the Quest Whole Leader Nomination (requires a non-family member) to increase this total.
🎯 The “High Achiever” Strategy

4.0+ GPA • 31+ ACT

  • Apply for Honors Fellows by the Feb 1 priority deadline.
  • Your goal is the 100% Tuition award—ensure your “Whole Person” essay highlights service and leadership.
Sources:
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/undergraduate/scholarships-and-grants/index.php
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/undergraduate/undergraduate-tuition-and-fin-aid-detailed.php

✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships at Oral Roberts University (2026–2027)

Oral Roberts University (ORU) offers several admission-based merit scholarships for both first-year students and transfers. In most cases, if your student is admitted and meets the academic criteria, the award is applied automatically.

Test score policy (important): ORU is test-optional, and ORU does not superscore the ACT or SAT (ACT: No • SAT: No). If your student submits scores, send the best single sitting.
Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility | Criteria Separate App? Renewable? Who Typically Wins? Deadline
Tier 1 Freshmen Academic Scholarship $11,000/yr Incoming freshmen with 4.0+ GPA No Yes* Admitted freshmen in the 4.0+ GPA band Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after
Tier 2 Freshmen Academic Scholarship $10,000/yr Incoming freshmen with 3.50–3.99 GPA No Yes* Admitted freshmen who fall in this GPA band Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after
Tier 3 Freshmen Academic Scholarship $9,000/yr Incoming freshmen with 3.00–3.49 GPA No Yes* Admitted freshmen who meet the GPA tier Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after
Tier 4 Freshmen Academic Scholarship $8,000/yr Incoming freshmen with 2.50–2.99 GPA No Yes* Admitted freshmen who meet the GPA tier Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after
Tier 5 Freshmen Academic Scholarship $6,000/yr Incoming freshmen with 2.00–2.49 GPA No Yes* Admitted freshmen who meet the GPA tier Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after
Tier 1 Transfer Academic Scholarship $10,000/yr Transfer students with 3.50+ college GPA No Yes* Admitted transfers who meet the GPA tier Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after
Tier 2 Transfer Academic Scholarship $9,000/yr Transfer students with 3.00–3.49 college GPA No Yes* Admitted transfers who meet the GPA tier Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after
Tier 3 Transfer Academic Scholarship $8,000/yr Transfer students with 2.50–2.99 college GPA No Yes* Admitted transfers who meet the GPA tier Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after
Tier 4 Transfer Academic Scholarship $6,000/yr Transfer students with 2.00–2.49 college GPA No Yes* Admitted transfers who meet the GPA tier Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after
Quest Whole Leader Scholarship (Base) Estimated range: $5,000–$25,000/yr*
(ORU describes this as the baseline Quest award; the exact amount varies by student.)		 Residential undergraduates admitted to ORU (Quest program baseline) No Yes* Most admitted residential students in the Quest framework (amount depends on ORU’s review) Feb 1 (priority); rolling admission after

*GPA/test ranges are estimates based on past recipients and published profiles; actual thresholds can change by year.

Disclaimer: Award amounts and renewal rules can change annually based on ORU policy, funding, and student enrollment status. Always confirm your student’s final award and renewal requirements in ORU’s official scholarship terms.

FAQ — Automatic Merit at Oral Roberts University

Do we need a separate scholarship application for these academic tiers?
Typically no. The freshmen and transfer academic scholarships listed above are admission-based awards tied to GPA bands, so eligible students generally receive them automatically once admitted.

If ORU is test-optional, should we submit ACT/SAT anyway?
If your student’s scores strengthen the application, it can still help—especially for competitive scholarships later. But for automatic merit, ORU’s published tiers here are GPA-based. Also note: ORU does not superscore, so send the best single sitting.

What’s the most important deadline for getting merit at ORU?
ORU uses rolling admission, but the Feb 1 priority date is a smart planning target if you want your student reviewed early for awards and housing decisions. Earlier is generally safer with scholarship funding.

What is the “Quest Whole Leader Scholarship (Base)” and why is it listed as a range?
ORU describes this as the baseline Quest award automatically tied to admission in the Quest framework, but the published description does not give one fixed amount for every student. That’s why we show a realistic estimated range and recommend confirming the final number in the official award letter.

Can students stack automatic merit with other ORU awards?
Sometimes, but stacking rules vary by program (especially if a student later earns competitive Quest awards or athletics). Always compare the award letter line-by-line and confirm whether a new scholarship adds to existing aid or replaces part of it.

Sources:
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/undergraduate/scholarships-and-grants/index.php
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/quest/undergraduate/index.php

🏆 Flagship & Competitive Scholarships at Oral Roberts University (2026–2027)

These are ORU’s highest-value and most selective scholarships. Unlike automatic merit, these awards require extra steps such as essays, interviews, nominations, or finalist weekends. They can dramatically reduce (or eliminate) tuition—but only a small number of students are selected each year.

Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility / Criteria Separate App? Renewable? Who Typically Wins? Deadline
Quest Whole Leader Full Tuition Scholarship Full tuition (renewable) High-achieving undergraduates admitted to ORU; nomination, essays, and on-campus interview required Yes — Quest nomination + interview Yes — with program standards ~15 students per year; strong academics, leadership, service, and alignment with ORU’s Christian mission Typically by invitation; early admission strongly recommended
National Merit Finalist Scholarship Package Estimated $25,000 Quest award + full housing*
(May lead to interviews for full-tuition awards) 		National Merit Finalists who list ORU as a choice school and are admitted No separate ORU app (College Board process applies) Yes* National Merit Finalists; top scorers nationwide who commit early to ORU National Merit deadlines + ORU admission timeline

*Award components and renewal terms for National Merit packages can vary by year and student profile. Some elements may replace (not stack with) other Quest or institutional awards.

Disclaimer: Competitive scholarship availability, award size, and renewal criteria may change annually. Final offers are confirmed only in the official ORU award letter.

FAQ — Flagship & Competitive Scholarships at ORU

How competitive is the Quest Whole Leader Full Tuition Scholarship?
Extremely competitive. ORU typically selects about 15 students per year. Winners usually have strong academics, clear leadership experience, service involvement, and a compelling personal fit with ORU’s mission.

Do students automatically get considered for these flagship awards?
No. These scholarships require extra steps such as nominations, essays, or interviews. Being admitted to ORU is necessary but not sufficient.

Is National Merit the same as a full ride at ORU?
Not automatically. ORU’s National Merit package is very strong (Quest award plus housing), and finalists are often invited to interview for full-tuition awards—but results vary by year.

Should we prioritize early admission if aiming for flagship scholarships?
Yes. Early admission improves access to invitations, nomination timelines, and interview slots. Families targeting Quest Whole Leader or National Merit–linked awards should apply as early as possible.

Can flagship scholarships stack with automatic merit?
Sometimes, but not always. Some flagship awards replace existing merit rather than stacking on top of it. Always review the award letter carefully and confirm stacking rules with ORU Financial Aid.

Sources:
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/quest/undergraduate/index.php
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/undergraduate/scholarships-and-grants/index.php

💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships at Oral Roberts University (2026–2027)

These scholarships aren’t always front-and-center on ORU’s main merit pages, but they can make a meaningful dent in tuition—especially for students with specific backgrounds, majors, or talents. Some are automatic once eligibility is confirmed; others require a separate application or program participation.

Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility / Criteria Separate App? Renewable? Who Typically Wins? Deadline
First-Generation Scholarship 15% tuition discount First-generation college students; typically 2.0+ GPA No (verification required) Yes* Students whose parent(s) did not earn a bachelor’s degree With admission / aid review
Margaret L. Lesher Foundation Scholarship (Media) Up to $4,000/yr Print or Broadcast Journalism majors; typically 3.0+ GPA and financial need Yes — separate application Varies Upper-level media students with strong academic standing Feb 1–May 15
Quest Whole Leader Entrepreneurship (Launch Competition) $10,000 total prize pool* Entrepreneurship students participating in the Launch Competition (Stovall Center) Yes — competition-based No (one-time awards) Students pitching viable ventures; judged on execution and impact Program-specific
Jack and Carol Greer Memorial Scholarship (Business) $1,000–$2,000/yr Business majors; typically 2.5+ GPA; financial need Yes — departmental Varies Sophomore+ business students active in Christian service Departmental deadlines
Suzanne M. Behr Scholarship $3,000/yr Juniors/Seniors; 2.0+ GPA; demonstrated financial need Yes — financial aid application Varies Students willing to participate in mentoring and donor engagement By May 15
Esports Scholarship Up to $3,500/yr Recruited competitive gamers (e.g., Valorant, Rocket League) Yes — tryout / coach selection Yes* High-skill competitive players recruited to ORU teams Team timelines
ORU Transfer Advantage 50% tuition Select full-time transfer students; highly selective Yes — inquiry & review Varies High-performing transfers ORU is actively recruiting Limited; early inquiry recommended

*Some awards are estimated, competitive, or conditional. Amounts and renewal terms can vary by year, enrollment status, or program rules.

FAQ — Hidden Gem Scholarships at ORU

Why is the First-Generation Scholarship shown as a percentage?
Because it’s a tuition discount, not a flat dollar amount. As tuition rises, the value of the scholarship rises with it—making it more valuable than it first appears.

What’s the difference between the Entrepreneurship scholarship and the Launch Competition?
The biggest entrepreneurship funding at ORU comes through the Launch Competition, which awards cash prizes (totaling about $10,000 annually) rather than traditional tuition discounts.

Are Transfer Advantage and Quest awards stackable?
Usually no. The 50% Transfer Advantage is often an either/or award and may replace higher-tier Quest awards rather than stacking on top of them.

Does commuter status affect any of these scholarships?
Yes. The Legacy Scholarship is typically reduced by 50% if a student lives off campus, which can materially change its value.

How do families avoid missing these scholarships?
Submit the FAFSA early, monitor ORU financial aid communications closely, and ask department advisors about internal awards—especially for business, media, and entrepreneurship programs.

Sources:
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/undergraduate/scholarships-and-grants/index.php
https://oru.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/quest/undergraduate/index.php
https://oru.edu/academics/stovall-center/

🎖 Honors Program & Scholarships at Oral Roberts University (2026–2027)

Oral Roberts University (ORU) offers a selective Honors Program designed for high-achieving students who want smaller classes, deeper academic engagement, and access to some of ORU’s most generous scholarships. Admission to Honors is competitive and typically requires a separate application or invitation.

Honors Award Award Amount Eligibility / Criteria Separate App? Renewable? Who Typically Wins? Deadline
Honors Program Fellows Scholarship $20,000/yr Invitation to Honors Fellows; typically 31+ ACT*, top academic standing, and strong faculty recommendations Yes — Honors application Yes — with Honors standards* Top-tier applicants nationally; exceptional academics and research potential Early admission strongly recommended
Honors Program Scholars Award ~50% tuition* Students admitted to the Honors Program who do not receive the Fellows award Yes — Honors application Yes — with Honors standards* High-achieving students who meet Honors criteria but fall just below Fellows selection With Honors admission decision
Honors Research Assistantship $1,250 stipend Upperclass Honors students conducting faculty-mentored research Yes — faculty nomination No (one-time) Honors juniors/seniors engaged in research projects Program-specific

*ACT thresholds, award percentages, and renewal standards are based on recent Honors cohorts and published guidance; exact criteria may change by year.

Disclaimer: Honors awards may replace (not stack with) other institutional merit depending on the student’s total aid package. Always confirm final amounts and renewal rules in the official ORU award letter.

FAQ — Honors Program at Oral Roberts University

Is the Honors Program separate from Quest scholarships?
Yes. Honors admission is a separate academic pathway. Honors scholarships can interact with Quest awards, but some Honors funding may replace portions of other institutional merit rather than stack fully.

How competitive is the Honors Fellows Scholarship?
Very competitive. Fellows are typically among the strongest applicants nationally, often with near-perfect academics and clear research or leadership potential.

If my student doesn’t get Fellows, is Honors still worth it?
Often yes. The Honors Scholars Award (roughly 50% tuition) is still substantial, and Honors students gain access to smaller classes, priority advising, and research opportunities.

Do test-optional students get into Honors?
Possibly, but the highest Honors awards (especially Fellows) tend to favor students with very strong test scores. Submitting a high ACT score can materially improve competitiveness.

What’s the biggest strategic benefit of Honors at ORU?
Beyond money, Honors offers early research access, faculty mentorship, and academic signaling that can help with graduate school, medical school, or competitive fellowships later.

Sources:
https://oru.edu/academics/honors-program/scholarships.php
https://oru.edu/academics/honors-program/faq.php

⭐ College Specialty

Oral Roberts University is best known for combining faith-based education with professional, career-aligned programs. Families often come to ORU for its strong Christian mission, but students stay because the university pairs that foundation with nationally recognized training in health sciences, ministry, and emerging STEM fields. ORU’s emphasis on whole-person development (academics, faith, and service) shapes many of its most distinctive programs.

Nationally Recognized Strength:
Health Sciences & Nursing — ORU is nationally recognized for integrating rigorous clinical training with a faith-based approach. Programs in nursing, health sciences, and allied health fields are known for high licensure pass rates, hands-on clinical preparation, and strong placement into healthcare systems across the U.S.
  • Theology & Ministry: A cornerstone of ORU’s identity, offering nationally visible programs in pastoral ministry, biblical studies, and missions, with graduates serving in churches and nonprofits worldwide.
  • Business & Entrepreneurship: ORU’s College of Business emphasizes ethical leadership, entrepreneurship, and real-world application, supported by the Stovall Center and student startup competitions.
  • Engineering & STEM: Growing programs in engineering and technology focused on applied learning, project-based coursework, and alignment with industry needs.
  • Performing Arts & Media: Competitive programs in music, media, and communications that integrate technical skill with ORU’s mission-driven framework.

✨ Wrapping It Up

Oral Roberts University is a private Christian university where the sticker price can look intimidating at first — but ORU’s structured merit tiers, Quest awards, and program-specific scholarships can make the final cost much more manageable for many families. The key is understanding what’s automatic (based on GPA or transfer GPA), what’s competitive (Quest full tuition and National Merit pathways), and what’s hiding in the fine print (first-gen tuition discounts, departmental awards, and transfer advantage offers).

Because ORU uses one tuition rate for all students, there isn’t an “in-state vs out-of-state” strategy here. Your family’s biggest levers are applying early, submitting any required verification quickly, and making sure you understand whether a new award stacks with existing aid or replaces it.

If ORU is on your list, the smartest move isn’t guessing what aid you might get — it’s comparing ORU side-by-side with similar private universities and seeing where your student’s academic profile unlocks the most value.

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