🎓 Ball State University Scholarships (2025–2026)
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- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
- Competitive and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
- Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~83% (2024 cycle)
- Middle 50% ACT: 20–26
- Middle 50% SAT: 1040–1240
- Average HS GPA: ~3.6
Source: Ball State University Undergraduate Admissions and most recent CDS summary.
Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
Ball State University at a Glance
Last verified: October 14, 2025
Ball State University blends a strong academic reputation with transparent merit aid—making it one of Indiana’s most affordable public universities for solid students. Automatic merit scholarships are based on GPA and test scores, while competitive programs like the Whitinger Scholarship can cover full tuition and provide a stipend.
With the Indiana state aid programs and the Midwest Student Exchange discount, many families find Ball State’s total cost competitive with in-state flagships across the region.
FAQ
Does Ball State offer automatic merit scholarships? Yes — the Ball State Scholars Awards are automatic based on GPA and/or test scores.
Can out-of-state students get a tuition discount? Yes — students from MSEP states receive reduced tuition rates automatically upon admission.
What’s the average net price? About $14,109 after grants and scholarships (College Scorecard 2025).
What’s the top award? The Whitinger Scholarship covers full tuition plus a stipend for top academic and leadership candidates.
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/ball-state-university-1786/applying
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/ball-state-university/admissions
https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/Ball-State-sat-scores-GPA
https://www.niche.com/colleges/ball-state-university/admissions/
https://www.clastify.com/blog/acceptance-rates/ball-state-university
https://www.collegesimply.com/colleges/indiana/ball-state-university/price/
https://bsu.smartcatalogiq.com/en/2024-2025/undergraduate-catalog/honors-college
https://msep.mhec.org/institutions/ball-state-university
https://www.bachelorsportal.com/scholarships/4538/whitinger-scholarship.html
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/whitinger-scholarship/7788/
https://www.bsu.edu/admissions/financial-aid-and-scholarships/types/scholarships
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/honorscollege/admissions-and-financial-aid
💰 Cost of Attendance at Ball State University (2025–2026)
Ball State University’s estimated annual cost of attendance includes tuition, mandatory fees, housing, and meals. These figures represent the published 2025–2026 rates before scholarships, grants, or reciprocity discounts are applied.
| In-State | Out-of-State | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees | $11,242 | $29,790 |
| Housing & Meals (On-Campus) | $13,630 | $13,630 |
| Total (Direct/Billed) | $24,872 | $43,420 |
Note: Costs are based on full-time enrollment (15 credit hours per semester) and a standard housing/meal plan. Additional expenses such as books, transportation, and personal costs may add $3,000–$5,000 annually.
📉 Average Net Price (after aid)
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Ball State’s average net price—what families actually pay after scholarships and grants—is about $14,109 per year. This reflects aid packages for full-time, first-year students living on campus.
Ball State University participates in the Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP), which allows eligible students from participating Midwest states to pay a reduced out-of-state rate capped at 150% of in-state tuition.
- Who qualifies? Residents of approved MSEP states.
- Typical savings: $8,000–$10,000 per year compared to full out-of-state tuition.
- How to apply: No separate application is required—eligibility is verified automatically with residency status.
❓ Cost & Reciprocity FAQs
Is Ball State affordable compared to other Indiana universities?
Yes. Ball State’s in-state tuition remains below most Big Ten and regional peers, and its average net price of about $14,109 makes it a strong value among public research universities.
Do out-of-state students always pay full price?
No. Students from eligible Midwest states qualify for the Midwest Student Exchange Program,
which reduces tuition by roughly $8,000–$10,000 per year.
Does Ball State offer automatic scholarships?
Yes. The Ball State Scholars Awards are automatic based on GPA and test scores, and may be stacked with MSEP savings for additional cost reduction.
https://www.bsu.edu/-/media/www/departmentalcontent/financialaid/pdfs/tuition-and-fees/undergraduate-tuition-2025-2026-updated.pdf
https://www.bsu.edu/admissions/financial-aid-and-scholarships/types/scholarships/msep
https://www.bsu.edu/news/press-center/archives/2025/06/board-of-trustees-freezes-tuition-and-mandatory-fees-and-adopts-strategic-plan
https://www.collegesimply.com/colleges/indiana/ball-state-university/price/
https://www.collegefactual.com/colleges/ball-state-university/paying-for-college/room-and-board/
https://www.collegeraptor.com/colleges/admissions/Ball-State-University-IN–150136
Automatic Merit Scholarships
Ball State automatically considers incoming freshmen for merit scholarships based on high school GPA and (if submitted) test scores. No separate application is required if you apply by the priority deadline.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ball State Scholars Award | $4,000/year | ~3.50–3.74 GPA; test-optional or ACT 21–23 / SAT 1060–1130 (superscore accepted) | No | Yes (up to 4 years) | Students with a weighted GPA in the mid-3s; scores help but aren’t required. | Dec 1 (priority) |
| Presidential Scholarship | $5,500–$16,000/year | ~3.75+ GPA; test-optional or ACT 24+ / SAT 1160+ (superscore accepted) | No | Yes (up to 4 years) | Top academic applicants; GPA 3.8+ weighted or strong scores tend to land higher tiers. | Dec 1 (priority) |
Note: GPA and test score cutoffs are approximate when not explicitly stated on the university website. They’re based on official award descriptions, past recipient data, and published student profile stats, and may shift with each year’s applicant pool and funding.
Presidential range explained: The lower end ($5,500–$8,000) typically goes to students meeting the minimum cutoff. The upper end ($14,000–$16,000) is reserved for top admits with a weighted GPA near 4.0 and ACT 30+ / SAT 1360+ (superscore accepted). Mid-range awards go to students in between.
Automatic Scholarship FAQs
Do I need a separate application?
No. Apply for admission by the priority deadline and you’ll be automatically reviewed for the awards above.
Is Ball State test-optional for scholarships?
Yes. Submitting strong ACT/SAT scores can boost you into a higher tier, but it isn’t required. Superscoring is used if you do submit scores.
Is the “Presidential” scholarship competitive here?
No — at Ball State, “Presidential” is part of the automatic merit program (not a separate competitive, essay-based award).
Can I combine these with MSEP?
Typically yes. Many out-of-state students reduce costs by stacking automatic merit with the MSEP tuition discount (subject to Ball State stacking rules).
https://www.bsu.edu/admissions/financial-aid-and-scholarships/types/scholarships
https://www.bsu.edu/admissions/undergraduate-admissions/apply-now/test-information
https://www.bsu.edu/admissions/financial-aid-and-scholarships/types/scholarships/msep
https://www.scholarshipforme.com/scholarships/ball-state-scholars-award
https://www.petersons.com/scholarship/ball-state-university-presidential-scholarship-111_271510.aspx
Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships)
Priority deadline: November 1 for most top scholarships. View official Ball State scholarship details & deadlines.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Room & Board Scholarship | Full housing + meals | ~3.85+ GPA; ACT 28+ / SAT 1310+; strong leadership and essays required | Yes | Yes (4 years) | Select group of Honors-level admits with excellent recommendations and compelling “Why Ball State” essays | Nov 1 |
| National Merit Package | Significant merit aid; may include Honors invitation | National Merit Finalist; Ball State listed as first-choice institution | No (via NMSC) | Yes | Finalists who complete all NMSC steps on time and select Ball State as first choice | March 1 (NMSC) |
Competitive Scholarship FAQ
Are test scores required for these?
Yes. Competitive scholarships require ACT or SAT scores. Ball State superscores, so submit all sittings to maximize eligibility.
How competitive are these awards?
Extremely. These are small-cohort awards for top-tier students. Meeting GPA and test minimums only gets applicants into the pool — essays, interviews, and demonstrated leadership are decisive factors.
Typical winner profile:
GPA 3.9–4.0; ACT 30–33 (superscored) / SAT 1360–1450; multiple AP/IB/dual credit classes; leadership in 1–2 major activities; and meaningful service or research.
How can students improve their odds?
Apply by November 1. Write specific, story-driven essays showing measurable impact, not just titles. Choose recommenders who can attest to initiative and character. Prepare for interviews with authentic, confident answers.
Can students apply for multiple competitive scholarships?
Yes. Applying for one does not disqualify you from others, but deadlines differ. Track each separately and submit all required materials on time.
Disclaimer: GPA and test ranges are estimates based on past recipients. Ball State may update criteria annually.
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/honorscollege/admissions-and-financial-aid/scholarships
https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/29809/whitinger-scholars-program
https://studentscholarships.org/scholarship/12141/whitinger-scholars-program
https://www.bsu.edu/admissions/financial-aid-and-scholarships/types/scholarships
Honors College at Ball State University
The Honors College at Ball State University offers a small, discussion-based academic community within a large public university. It’s focused on mentorship, research, and access to exclusive scholarships—not extra busywork. Students benefit from priority registration, seminar-style classes, faculty support, and the chance to compete for major awards like the Whitinger Scholarship.
Admission is selective. While a few students receive automatic invitations based on GPA or test scores, most must complete a separate application that includes essays and an activity résumé. The review is holistic—academic strength, leadership, service, and curiosity all matter.
- Priority registration each semester
- Small seminar-style Honors courses
- Faculty mentoring and undergraduate research opportunities
- Dedicated advising for internships and graduate school
- Eligibility for Honors-exclusive scholarships and fellowships
Honors Scholarships and Awards
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whitinger Scholarship | Full tuition + fees + housing + meals + stipend | Honors College admit; ~3.85+ GPA; ACT 29+ / SAT 1340+; essays & interview | Yes | Yes — up to 8 semesters | ~15 students annually with exceptional leadership, essays, and interviews | Nov 1 (priority) |
| Anderson Scholarship | ~50% of in-state tuition | New Honors students majoring in History or Teaching (U.S. History focus) | Yes | Yes — maintain GPA | Students in History/Teaching programs with strong essays and leadership | Dec 1 |
| Fields / Gilpin / Harding Scholarships | $1,000–$3,000 per year | Honors College students demonstrating financial need | Yes | Varies | First-gen or need-based Honors students who apply early through portal | Feb 1 |
| Joe & Carol Trimmer Thesis Awards | $1,000 (2 awards) | Graduating Honors seniors with outstanding thesis or creative project | Yes | No | One research thesis winner and one creative project winner each year | Mar 1 |
| Honors Undergraduate Fellowships | Paid fellowship (varies) | Honors student with faculty-mentored research project | Yes | No | Students who connect early with mentors and propose strong research | Rolling |
Ball State Honors College FAQs
Is the Honors College invitation-only?
Partially. Some top applicants are invited automatically, but most apply separately through essays and activity lists. Leadership, writing, and curiosity often carry as much weight as GPA.
Will my student have more work?
No — just different. Honors courses replace gen-eds and focus on discussion, creativity, and projects rather than additional homework.
What does a typical Honors student look like?
GPA around 3.9–4.0, ACT 29–33 / SAT 1340–1450 (superscore), multiple AP/IB or dual-credit courses, and strong community or leadership involvement.
Are all Honors students eligible for big scholarships?
Only a few are chosen for the Whitinger or Anderson awards. However, all Honors students have access to smaller internal scholarships and research funding.
Can Honors awards stack with other scholarships?
Often yes — the Whitinger can stack with some automatic aid, though it replaces others like the full Presidential Scholarship. Always confirm with Financial Aid.
https://bsu.smartcatalogiq.com/en/2024-2025/undergraduate-catalog/honors-college
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/honorscollege
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/whitinger-scholarship/7788/
https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/29809/whitinger-scholars-program
https://studentscholarships.org/scholarship/12141/whitinger-scholars-program
https://commcenter.bsu.edu/message/honors-college-undergraduate-fellowship-applications-due-october-31-2023
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/honorscollege/admissions-and-financial-aid
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/honorscollege/opportunities/awards-and-honors
https://www.bsu.edu/-/media/www/departmentalcontent/honorscollege/pdfs/honors-courses/trimmer-award-application-form-2024.pdf
https://talk.collegeconfidential.com/t/stacking-scholarships/1396076
⭐ Specialty Programs at Ball State University
Ball State is an R2 doctoral university (high research activity) that also carries the prestigious “Opportunity College & University” Carnegie designation—recognizing both its research strengths and exceptional student outcomes.
- Online Education & Specialty Fields: U.S. News ranks their online Master’s in Curriculum & Educational Technology (~7th), Special Education (~11th), Educational Admin & Supervision (~13th), among others in top-25.
- Architecture & Planning: Ball State offers the only PAB-accredited Master of Urban & Regional Planning and MLA programs in Indiana. Its architecture program has ranked among the nation’s top 15 (Almanac 2003); landscape architecture placed 5th (grad) and 8th (undergrad) nationally (DesignIntelligence).
- Communication & Media: The College of Communication, Information, and Media is among the ten largest in the U.S. Students have earned multiple regional Emmys and Student Academy Awards.
- Educator Preparation: The Teachers College is in the top 25 nationally for number of educator preparation programs offered online, with ABA-verified Applied Behavior Analysis programs.