Ball State University Scholarships (2026–2027)
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Last Updated on June 2, 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: ~83%
- Middle 50% ACT: 20-26
- Middle 50% SAT: 1040-1240
- Average GPA: 3.6
Comparing multiple schools?
Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 Ball State University at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (Whitinger Scholars Program & Deborah S. Wehman Scholarship)
Average Net Price
$14,109/year (in-state estimate)
Average paid for residents.
Automatic Merit
$4,000–$16,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
30 opportunities
2 automatic · 2 competitive · 13 hidden gem · 13 honors
Typical Qualifiers
GPA 3.5+; ACT 21+ / SAT 1060+
Benchmarks for top-tier awards.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
No superscore.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Dec 1 • FAFSA: Apr 15
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Whitinger Scholars Program & Deborah S. Wehman Scholarship
Honors College
Honors Program Available
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at Ball State University (Read This First)
- The December 1 priority deadline is key for the best automatic merit — apply later and you may still get in, but with less scholarship money.
- The top award (Whitinger Scholarship) is highly competitive and Honors-based — it’s not something to count on, even for strong students.
- Automatic scholarships are solid but modest ($1,000–$4,000/year), so most families should plan on stacking with state aid or MSEP discounts to get the best value.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes — Ball State University is test-optional.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 20-26; SAT: 1040-1240.
Average net price? About $14,109/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes — participates in msep.
💰 Cost of Attendance at Ball State 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) |
$11,242 |
$29,790 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$13,630 |
$13,630 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$24,872 |
$43,420 |
Average Federal Net Price: $14,109 — 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 Discount: Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP)
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.
Sources:
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
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.
Good to know: Ball State uses ACT/SAT superscoring (they combine your best subscores across dates). Also, at some colleges “Presidential” is competitive; at Ball State the Presidential Scholarship is automatic if you meet the criteria and deadline.
Automatic
Ball State Scholars Award
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA✎ ~21 ACT✎ ~1060 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can often stack with MSEP or outside scholarships; confirm with financial aid.
💡
Strategic Detail
Mid-3s GPA and optional test scores. Superscoring used.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with weighted GPA in mid-3s; scores help but are not required.
Automatic
Presidential Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$5,500–$16,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.8+ GPA✎ ~24 ACT✎ ~1160 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
May stack with MSEP or outside awards. Cannot be combined with Whitinger full ride.
💡
Strategic Detail
Ball State uses superscore and is test-optional. High ranges go to top admits.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Top applicants. Upper tier for weighted GPA~4.0 and ACT 30+/SAT 1360+.
* 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: 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).
Sources:
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)
Top-tier scholarship alert: These awards are highly selective and require a separate application, early deadlines, and often an interview.
Strong grades get students in the door, but leadership, service, and standout essays decide who wins.
Priority deadline: November 1 for most top scholarships.
View official Ball State scholarship details & deadlines.
App Required
Presidential Room & Board Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Nov 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.9+ GPA✎ ~28 ACT✎ ~1310 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with most university aid; may replace similar housing awards.
📄
How to Apply
Separate application by Nov 1 with essays and possibly interview.
Selection criteria: Leadership, essays and holistic review.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Full housing + meals for competitive pool. Interview and essays required.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Select Honors College admits with strong student record and standout essays.
Automatic
National Merit Package
📅 Deadline: March 1 (NMSC)
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
NMSC rules apply, can be combined with other state/national awards per guidelines.
💡
Strategic Detail
Amount varies by year and package; may include Honors College invitation.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Finalists who complete all NMSC steps and select Ball State as first-choice.
* 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.
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.
Sources:
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
Hidden Gem Scholarships
These are the awards that don’t always make the admissions brochure — but can still make a big dent in costs. They’re not based only on GPA or test scores. Instead, they focus on your student’s major, talents, activities, background, or program fit. Many can be combined with automatic merit and MSEP discounts.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Foundation & Donor Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Portal: Dec–Mar
Non-Renewable
$500–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Short essays in portal; match donor criteria (major, GPA, hometown, etc.).
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Many donor awards; check portal and descriptions before applying.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Applicants who align with donor criteria and apply early.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Mathematics & Actuarial Awards (e.g., Ram Lal Seekri, D.W. Simpson)
📅 Deadline: Dept cycles: Jan–Mar
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Department application; meet math/actuarial performance and activity standards.
💡
Strategic Detail
Check with department for range and renewal rules.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Majors active in department and who meet milestones.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Theatre & Dance Talent Scholarships (incl. University CFA Awards)
📅 Deadline: Auditions: Jan–Feb
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA)
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Audition or portfolio; placement in appropriate major/track.
💡
Strategic Detail
Stay in good academic standing (often 2.5–3.0 GPA) to renew.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Majors who excel at audition/portfolio and follow directions.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Journalism Named Awards (e.g., Barnet, Bona Cress & Lawrence Press)
📅 Deadline: Jan–Feb
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply through Journalism department; submit portfolio and maintain academic standing.
💡
Strategic Detail
Named awards may have distinct criteria.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Portfolio submitters with notable work and academic achievement.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Marching Band / Music Ensemble Awards
📅 Deadline: Auditions: Feb–Apr
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA)
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Audition and ensemble placement with ongoing participation required.
💡
Strategic Detail
F. Earl Dunn Senior Band Scholarship is one named example.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Musicians committing to full-year participation, especially in high-need sections.
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Army ROTC Scholarships (incl. CLIP incentive)
📅 Deadline: Nat’l boards Oct–Mar
✓ Renews
Full Tuition
tuition/fees/stipend
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via ROTC for national or campus awards; meet program and service requirements. CLIP incentive for language study.
💡
Strategic Detail
Full tuition or stipend possible. Language CLIP up to $3,000/yr.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who qualify and commit to ROTC or language program.
App Required⚠ Junior Only
Lawhead Student Enrichment Award
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
🎓 Junior
📄
How to Apply
Contact Dean Buss at james.buss@bsu.edu for application details. Award is disbursed during the student's third year of study.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$3,000 for a junior Honors student headed toward a career in education. The funds can go toward study abroad, an immersive experience, a conference, an internship — anything that meaningfully expands their learning. Named for Ball State's first-ever Honors dean. Most families never hear about this one — if your student is education-bound and in Honors, email the dean's office and ask.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: A junior-year Honors student pursuing a career in education who uses the $3,000 for something transformative — study abroad, an immersive internship, a professional conference. Named for the dean who literally founded the Honors College in 1958.
App Required
Honors College David and Leighann Rinker Scholarship for Study Abroad
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.3+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can be applied toward Honors College study abroad programs ($2,000–$3,500) or another authorized Ball State program.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Scholarship application submitted through the Honors College portal. Must be enrolled in an Honors study abroad program or another authorized Ball State undergraduate study abroad.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$2,000 toward a study abroad experience — applies to Honors College programs (typically $2,000–$3,500) or any authorized Ball State program. Several awarded each year. If your student is already planning to study abroad, this essentially covers the trip. Minimum 3.33 GPA required at time of award. Most students miss this one entirely.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
New Honors students who are planning to participate in a study abroad program and are making regular progress in the Honors curriculum. Must have at least a 3.33 GPA at the time the award is given.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Dr. James S. Ruebel Honors Fellowships for International and Innovative Experiences
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Contact Dean Buss at james.buss@bsu.edu for application details. Several fellowships are awarded annually.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Several fellowships awarded annually to current Honors students pursuing meaningful international or local community impact. Award amounts vary. This one flies completely under the radar — virtually no one outside the Honors College knows it exists. Email the Honors dean's office directly to find out how to apply.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Current Honors students positioned to make a real impact through international study, local community engagement, or both. Named for the dean who made study abroad a signature part of the Honors experience — they're looking for students who embody that same adventurous spirit.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Drs. Anthony and Joanne Edmonds Scholarship for Study Abroad
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Contact Dean Buss at james.buss@bsu.edu for application details. Awarded each biennium (every two years).
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$3,000 every two years for an Honors student headed abroad. Established by two professors with six-plus combined decades at Ball State who believed deeply in the power of international study. Not many people know this exists — contact the Honors dean's office to get on the radar for the next cycle.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
A current Honors student preparing to study abroad. Named for two professors who devoted over 60 years to Ball State and championed international education — the committee is looking for students with genuine global curiosity and a solid study abroad plan.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Dr. F. Ray and Carolyn J. Saxman Honors College Scholarly Engagement Grants
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via ballstate.infoready4.com. Contact Dean Buss at james.buss@bsu.edu for more information. Check Honors College portal for current application cycle dates.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Travel and research grants for current Honors students pursuing meaningful scholarly activity — conference presentations, research travel, and more. If your student has had a presentation accepted anywhere, this fund can cover the cost of going. Almost entirely off the public radar. Apply through the Honors infoready portal or contact the Honors dean directly.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Current Honors students whose research has been accepted to a regional, national, or international conference — or who have a compelling scholarly engagement opportunity. These grants exist specifically to remove the financial barrier between a student and their first conference experience.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
National and Regional Honors Conference Participation Grants
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
👥 ~~10 per conference winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Submit a declaration of intent form to the Honors College BEFORE submitting a proposal to MEHA or NCHC. Contact Dean Buss at james.buss@bsu.edu for the declaration form and process details.
💡
Strategic Detail
Ball State covers conference expenses for about 10 Honors students per conference for both the Mid-East Honors Association (MEHA) and the National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC) — meaning up to 20 funded spots per year. The catch: you must file a declaration of intent with the Honors College BEFORE submitting your conference proposal. Miss that step and you miss the funding. Email the Honors dean's office as soon as your student starts working on a proposal.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
About 10 Honors students per conference — those who submit a conference proposal to MEHA or NCHC and get it accepted. The key step most students miss: you have to tell the Honors College you're applying BEFORE you submit to the conference, not after.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Miller Leadership Academy (Miller College of Business)
📅 Deadline: Jan–Feb
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with university and external scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Miller Leadership Academy; must be business major and participate in program.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Attend required programming and meet leadership milestones for renewal.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Business majors with leadership and engagement in the Academy program.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Tom & Pam Smith Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb 1 (typ.)
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Complete Smith Scholarship application in portal. Must major in Teacher Ed or Business, demonstrate financial need and service.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Must document service and need.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with fit for major and strong service/need profile.
* 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.
Heads up: Amounts and dates vary by year and funding. Use the BSU Scholarship Portal and department pages to confirm current deadlines before applying.
Ball State Hidden Gem Scholarship FAQs
Do I have to be a freshman to get these?
No. Many departmental, identity-based, and donor scholarships are open to continuing students too. Your student can keep applying each year — and sometimes has a better shot once they’ve built a Ball State track record.
Can these be combined with other awards?
Often yes, but it depends on department/program rules. Some stack with automatic merit and MSEP, while others may replace part of an existing award. Confirm stacking with the financial aid office before assuming.
When should we apply?
As early as possible. Watch the portal for deadlines; don’t wait until late spring — some funds run out quickly.
Do talent awards require a certain GPA?
Most are based on your audition/portfolio, but many departments require you to stay in good academic standing (often 2.5–3.0 GPA) to keep the award.
Sources:
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/mcob/miller-leadership-academy
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/mcob/miller-leadership-academy/eligibility-and-how-to-apply
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/theatredance/auditions-and-interviews/dance-ba-bs
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/theatredance/auditions-and-interviews
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/nutrition-health-science/admissions-and-financial-aid/department-scholarships
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/math/admissions-financial-aid/departmental-scholarships
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/ccim/scholarships
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/sjsc/admissions-financial-aid/departmental-scholarships
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/history/admissions-financial-aid/department-scholarships
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/military-science/financial-aid
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
Full RideApp Required
Whitinger Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: Nov 16
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Ride
full tuition, mandatory fees, room and board
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.9+ GPA👥 ~8 per year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
If you already hold a Ball State merit scholarship (like the Presidential Scholarship), that award gets applied to tuition and fees first — then the Whitinger covers whatever tuition and fees remain, plus room and board. It fills in the gaps and then some.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by the Nov 16 priority deadline. Once accepted, watch your Ball State Applicant Status Portal daily — application materials are sent through the portal. Submit your completed Whitinger application via the portal by the Dec 6 deadline. No self-nominations accepted.
Selection criteria: Academic ability, character, creativity, and leadership potential evaluated holistically by committee.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Ball State's most prestigious award covers full tuition (in-state or out-of-state), mandatory fees, and on-campus room and board for eight semesters. Only 8 students win each year, and US citizenship (or Puerto Rico residency) is required. Applications come through your Applicant Status Portal — check it daily after applying to the Honors College.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Eight students per year — not fifteen. These are exceptional all-around students: strong GPA, compelling essays, standout interviews, and real leadership presence. US citizens and Puerto Rico residents only.
App Required
Dr. T.M. Anderson Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (3.33 GPA)
🏫 3.3+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
May stack with other aid; check with the Financial Aid office for limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Scholarship application submitted through the Honors College portal. Essays and letters of recommendation required.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers roughly half of in-state tuition and required fees for a new Honors student in History or Social Science Teaching (U.S. history focus). Indiana residency is NOT required — this one is open to students from anywhere. To keep it, maintain a 3.33 cumulative GPA and a 3.5 GPA in the history major.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students majoring in History or Social Science Education with a U.S. history concentration — inside or outside Indiana. Strong essays and leadership help, but the major is the gate.
Full TuitionApp Required
Deborah S. Wehman Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full in-state tuition
✔ Stackable
👥 ~1 per year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Supplements the Presidential Scholarship — Presidential applies to tuition first, Wehman covers the remaining in-state tuition balance.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Scholarship application submitted through the Honors College portal.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers full in-state tuition for one new Honors College student. It works alongside the Presidential Scholarship — Presidential covers tuition first, and the Wehman picks up whatever remains. Renewable for eight semesters with annual review.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: A single outstanding new Honors student each year. Established by an Honors alumna and practicing physician, this award goes to someone with a strong all-around Honors application.
Full TuitionApp Required
O.L. Strong Memorial Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full in-state tuition
✔ Stackable
👥 ~1 per year winners/yr
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Scholarship application submitted through the Honors College portal.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Full in-state tuition for one new Honors College student pursuing nursing, business, architecture, or music. Indiana residency is required. If your student is in one of these majors and qualifies for Honors, this is absolutely worth applying for — the restricted pool works in your favor. Renewable for eight semesters with annual review.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: A new Honors student from Indiana majoring in nursing, business, architecture, or music. The major restriction makes the pool small — great odds if you're in one of these programs.
App Required⚠ Sophomore Only
Joe and Carol Trimmer Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (3 yrs)
🎓 Sophomore
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with other aid; $2,800 is a defined annual stipend.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Honors College scholarship portal. Open to current Honors students entering their sophomore year pursuing arts or humanities. Contact Dean Buss at james.buss@bsu.edu for details.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$2,800 per year for a current Honors student entering sophomore year in an arts or humanities major. Renewable with conditions for up to three years — meaning this could total $8,400 over your student's time at Ball State. Named for Dr. Joe Trimmer, English professor emeritus, and his wife Carol.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: A current Honors student heading into sophomore year with a major in the arts or humanities. Named for a beloved English professor emeritus and his late wife — they look for someone who genuinely loves their discipline and the Honors experience.
App Required
Bruce F. and Ildiko B. Meyer Memorial Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
👥 ~1 per year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with other aid; $8,000/year is a defined stipend on top of other awards.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Scholarship application submitted through the Honors College portal with financial need documentation.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$8,000 per year for a new Honors student with financial need and exceptional potential. This one sits in a rare category: substantial dollar amount, need + merit combined, and named after a former Honors College dean. If your family has demonstrated financial need and your student is Honors-caliber, don't skip this application. Renewable for eight semesters with annual review.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
A new Honors student who combines demonstrated financial need with exceptional promise. Named for a beloved former Honors dean — the committee looks for students who embody that same intellectual drive and potential.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors Undergraduate Fellowships
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply through ballstate.infoready4.com with a faculty-mentored research project proposal. Students may apply as early as their second semester for fellowships in subsequent semesters.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Get paid $1,080 per semester to do research alongside a faculty mentor. Fellowship appointments span one or two semesters depending on the project. Students can apply as early as second semester. Applications open and close on a cycle — check the Honors College portal for current status.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Current Honors students who partner with a faculty mentor on a defined scholarly project. You need the project idea AND the faculty relationship — the award funds 150 hours of work per fellowship semester.
App Required
Mr. and Mrs. Oliver K. Ho Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,500–$4,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Open to new freshman and transfer Honors students. Scholarship application submitted through the Honors College portal.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Merit-based award ranging $1,500–$4,000 per year for an outstanding new Honors freshman or transfer student. No major restriction, no need requirement — established by a WWII veteran and community leader to support exceptional students. One of the more open named awards in the Honors College portfolio.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Outstanding new Honors freshmen or transfer students. No major or need restriction — this one is open to the full Honors applicant pool, which makes it one of the more accessible named awards in this group.
App Required
Nole L. and Rosalyn M. Walters Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,500–$4,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Scholarship application submitted through the Honors College portal.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Merit-based award of $1,500–$4,000 per year for a new Honors student with strong academic promise. No major or need restriction. Named for two 1950s Ball State graduates who stayed connected to the university for decades. Renewable for eight semesters with annual review.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
A new Honors student with strong academic potential. Established by two long-active Ball State alumni — they wanted someone who was going to make the most of the Honors experience.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Fields / Gilpin / Harding Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,500–$4,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Need-based scholarship materials submitted through the Honors College portal.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A cluster of named scholarships ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 per year. Fields and Gilpin are explicitly need-based; Harding is broader. These are available to both incoming and current Honors students — the single Honors scholarship application covers all of them at once. Renewable for eight semesters with annual review.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Need-based Honors students — both new and continuing — who apply on time. The Fields and Gilpin scholarships prioritize financial need; Harding is broader but still targets Honors students who demonstrate dedication. Applying early and completely is the main differentiator.
App Required
Professor Ethel Mae Haave Honors College Memorial Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,500–$4,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Scholarship application submitted through the Honors College portal.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Need-based award for a new Honors College student, ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 per year depending on the fund. Established by grateful Honors alumni in memory of a professor who made a lasting impact. One Honors application covers this one too — no separate form needed.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
A new Honors student with financial need who demonstrates genuine intellectual curiosity. Named for a beloved professor, this scholarship honors that same passion for learning her former students remember so fondly.
App Required⚠ Senior Only
Joe and Carol Trimmer Awards for Outstanding Senior Honors Thesis and Creative Project
📅 Deadline: Mar 28
Non-Renewable
👥 ~2 per year winners/yr🎓 Senior
📄
How to Apply
Download the application from the Honors College site and submit by Mar 28. Open to students who graduated the prior December or will graduate in May or July of the current year.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
At least $1,000 each for the two most outstanding senior Honors capstone works of the year — one thesis, one creative project. If your student has put serious work into their Honors capstone, this is recognition and money worth going after. Download the application from the Honors College site; deadline is Mar 28.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Two winners per year — one for the most outstanding thesis, one for the most outstanding creative project. Senior Honors students submitting their capstone work compete for recognition and a $1,000 prize each.
App Required
Hickman Family Honors College Music Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Jan 9
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,500–$4,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
📄
How to Apply
Apply to the Honors College by Jan 9. Scholarship application submitted through the Honors College portal.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Need-based award for a new Honors College student majoring in music, ranging $1,500–$4,000 per year. Established to honor the musical legacy of the Hickman family in the Muncie community. Music + Honors + financial need is a narrow overlap — lean into it.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: A new Honors student majoring in music with demonstrated financial need. The music major restriction keeps the pool very small — if your student plays at an Honors level and needs aid, this one is worth the effort.
* 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.
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.
Sources:
https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/honorscollege
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
⭐ 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.
Ball State’s standout program: Their online Master of Business Administration is ranked 16th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report (2025), making it one of the most recognized online MBAs today.
- 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.
✅ Final Thoughts
Ball State has a little bit of everything: automatic scholarships that reward solid academics, competitive awards for the standouts, hidden gems tucked into departments, and a close-knit Honors College with life-changing scholarships like the Whitinger. Add in the MSEP discount for out-of-state families, and suddenly the “sticker price” looks a lot more manageable. If your student is looking for a campus where opportunities are both broad and personal, Ball State deserves a serious look.
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