Louisiana Tech University Scholarships (2025–2026)
← Back to the Public University Scholarships hub • See Louisiana state aid
- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
- Flagship (competitive) and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
- Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~63%
- Middle 50% ACT: 22–28
- Middle 50% SAT: 1080–1280
- Average HS GPA (middle 50%): 3.4–3.9
Source: Louisiana Tech University Common Data Set 2024–25 and BigFuture overview. Middle 50% = the range where half of admitted students fall.
Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
Louisiana Tech at a Glance
Last verified: October 10, 2025
Louisiana Tech offers one of the clearest automatic merit systems in the region—awarding thousands in guaranteed aid for strong ACT and GPA combos. High achievers (ACT 32+, GPA 3.8+) can earn the Presidential Scholarship, which covers full tuition automatically. Out-of-state students can often bring costs down to in-state levels through these awards.
Use this guide to see where your student fits on Tech’s scholarship grid, how to qualify for the full-tuition tier, and when to apply to maximize eligibility.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? No — standardized tests are required for automatic merit at Louisiana Tech (ACT or SAT superscored).
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 22–28; SAT: 1080–1280 (for students who submitted scores).
What’s the average net price? About $12,731/year after aid. See our Net Price & SAI guide.
Does this school use reciprocity or OOS waivers? Yes — high-achieving out-of-state students can earn merit that reduces tuition to in-state rates.
Louisiana Tech University Scholarships (2025–2026)
← Back to the Public University Scholarships hub • See Louisiana state aid
- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
- Flagship (competitive) and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
- Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~63%
- Middle 50% ACT: 22–28
- Middle 50% SAT: 1080–1280
- Average HS GPA (middle 50%): 3.4–3.9
Source: Louisiana Tech University Common Data Set 2024–25 and BigFuture overview. Middle 50% = the range where half of admitted students fall.
Louisiana Tech at a Glance
Last verified: October 10, 2025
Louisiana Tech offers one of the clearest automatic merit systems in the region—awarding thousands in guaranteed aid for strong ACT and GPA combos. High achievers (ACT 32+, GPA 3.8+) can earn the Presidential Scholarship, which covers full tuition automatically. Out-of-state students can often bring costs down to in-state levels through these awards.
Use this guide to see where your student fits on Tech’s scholarship grid, how to qualify for the full-tuition tier, and when to apply to maximize eligibility.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? No — standardized tests are required for automatic merit at Louisiana Tech (ACT or SAT superscored).
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 22–28; SAT: 1080–1280 (for students who submitted scores).
What’s the average net price? About $12,731/year after aid. See our Net Price & SAI guide.
Does this school use reciprocity or OOS waivers? Yes — high-achieving out-of-state students can earn merit that reduces tuition to in-state rates.
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/scholarships/
https://latech.edu/admissions/
https://latech.edu/academics/honors/
https://latech.academicworks.com/
https://catalog.latech.edu/
💰 Cost of Attendance at Louisiana Tech University
| Category | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees (12+ credits, 3 quarters) | $11,709 | $22,758 |
| Housing & Meals (average) | $8,130 | $8,130 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,530 | $1,530 |
| Estimated Total (before aid) | ~$21,369 | ~$32,418 |
- Bulldog Out-of-State Scholarship: Waives the full nonresident fee for admitted freshmen and transfers from Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas. Other out-of-state students may also qualify if they meet GPA/test score requirements. Must maintain 2.0 GPA and full-time enrollment.
- Academic Common Market (ACM): Students from 15 Southern states may pay in-state tuition if their chosen major at Louisiana Tech is not offered at a public university in their home state. Certification required through your state’s ACM coordinator.
- Legacy Waiver: Children of Louisiana Tech alumni are charged in-state tuition regardless of state of residence.
Cost & Reciprocity FAQ
Who qualifies for in-state tuition?
Louisiana residents, TOPS recipients, alumni children (legacy status), and out-of-state students covered by the Bulldog Out-of-State waiver or ACM program.
How much can families save?
The Bulldog waiver eliminates the $11,000+ nonresident surcharge, effectively cutting costs for nearby states to the in-state level. ACM students save a similar amount if their program is eligible.
Do I need to apply for these waivers?
The Bulldog waiver and legacy benefit are automatic once you qualify. The ACM requires extra steps: you must (1) verify your intended major at Tech is ACM-approved for your state, (2) contact your state’s ACM coordinator to certify your residency, and (3) submit paperwork before enrolling. Only after your state certifies you will Tech apply the in-state tuition rate.
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/tuition-and-fees/
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/scholarships/
https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=159647
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/legacy/
https://www.sreb.org/academic-common-market
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
Louisiana Tech awards a full grid of non-competitive, automatic scholarships to first-time freshmen based on ACT/SAT scores and unweighted GPA. Once your student is admitted and Tech has their test scores and transcript, they’re automatically placed into the highest tier they qualify for—no separate scholarship application.
Awards below are annual amounts for up to four years (maximum of 12 quarters, not including summers) for students who enroll full-time and maintain the required GPA. For scholarship purposes, Tech accepts ACT/SAT scores through the December test date of senior year.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Scholarship | Full in-state tuition (listed as $9,000–$9,500/year) | ACT 33+ (SAT 1450–1600) and ≥3.0 unweighted GPA; highest award for GPA 3.75–4.0. Test scores through December senior year count toward eligibility. | No — automatic with admission, test scores, and transcript | Yes — up to 4 years (12 quarters) with full-time enrollment and ≥3.0 cumulative GPA (checked each spring; Presidential also monitored quarterly) | Highest-achieving applicants with ACT in the low–mid 30s and strong A-range GPA; usually students already well above Tech’s middle 50% stats. | Apply for admission by Jan 5 (priority scholarship review; Tech’s official page lists a Jan 15 priority date) |
| Deans’ Scholarship | $8,000–$8,500/year | ACT 32 (SAT 1420–1440) and ≥3.0 unweighted GPA; higher amount for GPA 3.75–4.0. Scores accepted through December of senior year. | No — admission-based, using best test score on file | Yes — same renewal rules as Presidential (full-time + ≥3.0 GPA) | Very strong students with an ACT around 32 and solid A-/A grades who just miss Presidential cutoffs. | Admission by Jan 5 for best consideration |
| Outstanding Student (31 ACT) | $6,000–$6,500/year | ACT 31 (SAT 1390–1410) and ≥3.0 GPA; higher award for GPA 3.75–4.0 on a 4.0 unweighted scale. | No — automatic with admission + qualifying scores | Yes — up to 4 years with full-time enrollment and ≥3.0 GPA | Students with an ACT just below the Deans’ level but still well above Tech’s average admitted profile. | Admission by Jan 5 |
| Outstanding Student (29–30 ACT) | $5,000–$5,500/year | ACT 29–30 (SAT 1330–1380) and ≥3.0 GPA; higher award at 3.75–4.0 GPA. Scores may be updated through the December test date. | No — automatic consideration | Yes — full-time + ≥3.0 GPA | Strong students with ACT close to 30 and mostly A-/B+ grades; often honors/AP track in core classes. | Admission by Jan 5 |
| Outstanding Student (27–28 ACT) | $4,000–$4,500/year | ACT 27–28 (SAT 1260–1320) and ≥3.0 GPA; larger award at 3.75–4.0 GPA on Tech’s grid. | No — based on admission file and best scores | Yes — renewable with ≥3.0 cumulative GPA and full-time status | Many above-average applicants with ACT in the high 20s and a solid B+/A- record land here if they apply on time. | Admission by Jan 5 |
| Outstanding Student (25–26 ACT) | $3,000–$3,500/year | ACT 25–26 (SAT 1200–1250) and ≥3.0 GPA; award increases for 3.75–4.0 GPA. Scores through December can push a student into this band. | No — automatic with qualifying stats | Yes — 4 years with full-time enrollment and ≥3.0 GPA | Students slightly above Tech’s middle 50% ACT range with mostly B+/A- work in core classes. | Admission by Jan 5 |
| Outstanding Student (23–24 ACT) | $2,000–$2,500/year | ACT 23–24 (SAT 1130–1190) and ≥3.0 GPA; higher award for 3.75–4.0 GPA. This is often the “entry level” merit band above basic admission. | No — admission-based scholarship | Yes — with full-time enrollment and ≥3.0 GPA | Students with stats a bit above Tech’s typical admitted range; steady B+/A- grades and solid test scores. | Admission by Jan 5 |
| Academic Choice Scholarship | $1,000/year | ACT 20–22 (SAT 1030–1120) with 3.75–4.0 GPA (unweighted). Tech notes this award only in the higher GPA column of the grid. | No — automatic when admitted with qualifying stats | Yes — renewable with full-time enrollment and ≥3.0 GPA (confirmed each spring) | Students with slightly lower test scores but very high GPAs who still want a modest guaranteed discount from Tech. | Admission by Jan 5 |
Important: GPA and test score cutoffs above are based on Louisiana Tech’s published freshman scholarship grid, plus typical academic profiles for awardees. Tech may adjust thresholds or award amounts from year to year depending on funding and the applicant pool. Always confirm current details on the official scholarship page before your student applies.
Automatic Merit FAQ — Louisiana Tech
Do we need a separate scholarship application?
No. All of the scholarships listed in the grid above are admission-based. Once your student is admitted and Tech has their ACT/SAT scores and official high school transcript (with overall GPA and rank, if provided), they’re automatically placed into the highest scholarship tier they qualify for.
Does Louisiana Tech superscore the ACT/SAT?
Tech uses your student’s best test results for scholarship purposes, and the university notes that ACT/SAT scores through the December test date of senior year will be accepted. Practically speaking, families should assume Tech will use the highest composite/superscore on file when finalizing merit awards.
Are these scholarships for in-state or out-of-state students?
The grid applies to both in-state and out-of-state freshmen. For nonresidents, these automatic merit awards can stack with tuition discounts like the Bulldog Out-of-State Scholarship or legacy waivers described in the Cost section—often bringing the bill close to in-state levels.
What happens if my student raises their score after applying?
If your student retakes the ACT or SAT before the December senior test date and earns a higher score that reaches a new scholarship band, Tech can move them up the grid—as long as the new score is sent and received by the priority scholarship window. This is why many families schedule one last attempt in early fall of senior year.
How do these automatic awards interact with other scholarships?
Automatic merit is usually the base layer of your student’s Louisiana Tech aid package. On top of that, they may stack: Bulldog Out-of-State or legacy waivers, hidden-gem donor/first-gen awards, and outside/private scholarships. Tech will make sure the total doesn’t exceed the cost of attendance, but in practice most families still have room to add outside funds.
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/scholarships/
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/scholarships/national-merit/
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/scholarships/academic-works/
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
Louisiana Tech’s main university-wide competitive scholarship is the prestigious National Merit package. Additional selective scholarships (many donor- and department-based) are managed through Tech’s Academic Works portal after admission.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | What Makes It Competitive | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Merit Scholarship | Full tuition & fees + on-campus housing & meals (4 years) | Requires National Merit Finalist status and naming Tech as first choice with NMSC | Admitted freshmen who are National Merit Finalists; must maintain a 3.0 GPA and full-time enrollment | No Tech app; follow NMSC rules/deadlines; list Tech as first choice | Yes — maintain 3.0 cumulative GPA & full-time | March 1 (recommended for NMSC/Tech) |
Other selective funds (departmental, donor, and niche scholarships) are available through Tech’s Academic Works scholarship portal after admission. These may require essays, recommendations, or specific criteria such as major, leadership, or service. Application periods and deadlines vary by department, but most open from winter through early spring.
FAQ — Competitive Scholarships
Is National Merit the only big competitive award?
Yes—at the university-wide level, National Merit is the primary comprehensive four-year package. Other competitive awards at Tech tend to be smaller and are accessed through Academic Works or your major.
How do I get the National Merit package?
Be a National Merit Finalist, select Louisiana Tech as your first-choice school with NMSC, and be admitted to Tech by March 1 (recommended for maximum processing and housing opportunities).
Do I need to apply separately?
No Tech-specific app required. The award is processed via NMSC and applied once you designate Tech as first choice and are admitted.
Can it stack with other aid?
National Merit covers tuition, fees, housing, and meals. Additional outside/private awards may be added, but Tech will adjust campus-administered aid so you don’t receive more than total educational costs.
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/scholarships/
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/scholarships/national-merit/
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/scholarships/academic-works/
🎖 Honors College
The Louisiana Tech University Honors Program offers motivated students enriched seminars, faculty mentorship, and training in research and leadership. Admission is by separate application and review of academics, essays, and demonstrated potential for the higher challenge.
New freshmen often have a 3.5+ GPA and ACT 27+. Leadership, service, and writing count as much as stats — these are not hard cutoffs.
• Priority registration
• Honors and learning community housing
• Small, discussion-driven classes
• Faculty mentorship and undergrad research training
• Paths to thesis projects and graduate school
• A group of driven peers across campus
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honors Program Scholarships | ~$500–$2,000/year typical | New or continuing Honors members (GPA ≥3.0 plus continued program participation) | Yes; after Honors admission, apply via AcademicWorks | Yes—renewable with GPA & Honors standing | High achievers showing leadership, service, or research initiative | April 1 (AcademicWorks portal application) |
| Rea Study Abroad Scholarship | Varies (competitive) | Honors Program member enrolled in Tech-run study abroad; preference to History/Lib Arts | Yes; AcademicWorks app with study abroad statement | No (one-time award for abroad term) | Honors students in Liberal Arts (history preferred) with compelling study abroad plans | April 1 (AcademicWorks portal application) |
FAQ — Honors Program
Is admission automatic? No—apply to Honors separately, ideally in fall/winter of senior year; rolling review, but space is limited.
Will Honors slow me down? No—courses count as core or degree requirements for timely graduation.
Does Honors come with extra money? Yes—admitted students are eligible for Honors scholarships ($500–$2,000/yr) and for the competitive Rea Study Abroad Scholarship; both require an April 1 AcademicWorks application stackable with other aid.
https://latech.edu/academics/honors/
https://latech.academicworks.com/
https://latech.edu/office-of-admissions/scholarships/
https://catalog.latech.edu/
⭐ College Specialties at Louisiana Tech University
Louisiana Tech isn’t just any regional public university — it’s a hands-on engineering and business powerhouse with a reputation for innovation and real-world outcomes. While it’s classified as an R2 research university (focused on producing doctoral degrees and research outputs), Tech punches above its weight with trailblazing programs in engineering, cyber, and applied science.
Tech launched the nation’s first ABET-accredited undergraduate Nanosystems Engineering degree in 2005 and followed up by introducing the first Cyber Engineering BS in the U.S. in 2012 — a pair of industry-first programs that put Tech on the innovation map.
- Engineering: U.S. News ranks Tech’s graduate school of Engineering among the best — #118 for Computer Engineering specialties, #121 for Biomedical, and top-150 for Civil and Mechanical. The Master’s in Engineering Management was ranked No. 2 nationally by Intelligent.com in 2022, while its online Industrial Engineering program was No. 1.
- Business (MBA): The Full-time MBA program ranks among the nation’s top programs at #95 according to U.S. News.
- Education: The College of Education and Human Sciences rose 44 spots to be ranked #165 in the latest U.S. News graduate rankings.
- STEM Innovation & Research: Tech’s classification as a Carnegie R2 university underscores its growing research enterprise — over 40 doctoral degrees conferred and $27M+ in yearly research spending.
- Other Strong Academics: Niche ranks Tech #1 among public universities in Louisiana, top-55 nationally for Architecture, and top-65 for Agricultural Sciences.
📎 Official Links
- Louisiana Tech University Homepage
- Louisiana Tech Honors Program
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at Louisiana Tech
✅ Final Thoughts
Louisiana Tech may not have the name recognition of a giant flagship, but for many families it delivers exactly what matters: strong engineering and business programs, lower-than-average costs, and scholarships that stack in practical ways. From automatic merit to Bulldog out-of-state waivers, first-gen supports, and even marching band stipends, Tech offers a path where motivated students can keep college affordable without giving up opportunities. If your student thrives in a tight-knit campus with big-school options, Louisiana Tech is worth a serious look.