Queens University of Charlotte Scholarships (2026–2027)
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Last Updated on January 15, 2026- 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: ~57%
- Middle 50% ACT: ~20–27 (submitters)
- Middle 50% SAT: 1160–1340
- Estimated Average GPA (HS): ~3.5
Source: Queens University of Charlotte admissions materials plus national data sources (e.g., BigFuture, IPEDS, and similar). 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 →
Queens University of Charlotte at a Glance
- The “golden” date: Aim for Nov 14 (Priority Scholarship / Early Action window). Missing it can reduce access to the strongest merit consideration.
- The easy stackables: If your student is eligible, make sure Legacy (and any faith/affiliation awards) are flagged correctly on the original application so they don’t get missed.
- Test-optional strategy: If scores are strong relative to typical admitted ranges, submitting can help strengthen the overall file — especially if GPA is near the edge of a higher merit band.
- Big upside (but plan safely): Competitive programs like CTI can be life-changing if eligible — but families should budget as if competitive awards won’t happen, and treat them as a bonus.
Parent translation: Apply early, verify “easy win” eligibility, and use scholarships as a strategy — not a gamble.
https://www.queens.edu/afford/scholarships/
https://www.queens.edu/admissions/
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/queens-university-of-charlotte/tuition-and-costs
https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/Queens-University-of-Charlotte-admission-requirements
💰 Cost of Attendance at Queens University of Charlotte (2026–2027)
These are the direct, billed costs for a full-time undergraduate student living on campus. Because Queens is a private university, tuition is the same for all students regardless of residency.
Figures shown reflect the latest published 2025–2026 cost of attendance and are used as projections for 2026–2027 until Queens releases updated rates.
| Category | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Required Fees | $48,445 | $48,445 |
| Housing & Meals (On-Campus) | $19,496 | $19,496 |
| Total (Direct/Billed) | $67,941 | $67,941 |
Why only these items? We show the costs families typically pay directly to Queens — tuition, required fees, housing, and meals. Other expenses that Queens includes in its full Cost of Attendance (but does not bill directly) include:
- Books & course materials
- Transportation
- Personal and miscellaneous expenses
Housing & Meals reflect premium on-campus suites; traditional options may reduce this by ~$2,500/year.
📉 Average Net Price (What Families Actually Pay)
The average net price at Queens University of Charlotte is about $27,800 per year after grants and scholarships,
based on federal IPEDS data.
This is an average across all income levels. Students with strong academics or financial need often pay significantly less,
while families without aid may pay closer to the published cost.
Use Queens’ official
Net Price Calculator
for a personalized estimate.
Queens University of Charlotte is a private institution and does not participate in regional tuition exchange programs such as WUE, ACM, MSEP, or NBHE.
All undergraduates are charged the same published tuition regardless of state residency. Cost reductions come from institutional scholarships, need-based aid, and competitive programs rather than residency status.
Bottom line: Unlike public universities, out-of-state students at Queens are not penalized on tuition — but scholarships are essential to making costs manageable.
FAQ — Cost of Attendance at Queens University of Charlotte
Why is there no in-state vs. out-of-state tuition difference?
Queens is a private university, so tuition is not subsidized by state tax dollars. All students pay the same published tuition regardless of where they live.
Is the $67,900 total what most families actually pay?
No. That figure reflects the full billed cost before aid. The average net price after scholarships and grants is closer to $27,800,
and many students with merit or need-based aid pay less than that.
What makes Queens affordable if tuition is so high?
Queens relies heavily on institutional aid. Most admitted students receive merit scholarships,
and students with financial need may also qualify for grants and need-based assistance.
Do Queens scholarships reduce tuition only, or also housing?
Most Queens scholarships apply to tuition. Competitive programs like the
Charlotte Talent Initiative can cover tuition, housing, and meals, but those awards are limited and highly selective.
Does Queens participate in WUE, ACM, or other tuition exchanges?
No. Because Queens is private, it does not participate in regional tuition exchange or reciprocity programs.
https://www.queens.edu/afford/
https://www.queens.edu/financialaid/
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/queens-university-of-charlotte/tuition-and-costs
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships at Queens University of Charlotte (2026–2027)
Queens awards many merit scholarships automatically at the time of admission (no separate scholarship application for most students). Because Queens is test-optional for most applicants, students can qualify with GPA alone — but strong test scores (if submitted) can still help.
Program nuance: Some programs may have additional requirements (for example, direct-entry pathways in health fields). If your student is applying to nursing, double-check the program’s admissions requirements.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility / Criteria | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Typically Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Scholarship (Freshman) | Typically $22,000–$30,000/yr* Queens does not publish a current freshman merit grid; this is a practical planning range. |
Incoming first-year students; awarded automatically at admission | No | Usually yes* (up to 4 years with continuing criteria) | Students near the top of the admitted pool (often ~3.8+ core GPA* and/or strong test scores if submitted) | Nov 14 (priority scholarship deadline) |
| Trustee Scholarship (Freshman) | Typically $16,000–$22,000/yr* Planning range; not an official published grid. |
Incoming first-year students; awarded automatically at admission | No | Usually yes* (up to 4 years with continuing criteria) | Often ~3.6–3.9 core GPA* (and/or competitive ACT/SAT if submitted) | Nov 14 (priority scholarship deadline) |
| Mecklenburg Scholarship (Freshman) | Typically $10,000–$16,000/yr* Planning range; not an official published grid. |
Incoming first-year students; awarded automatically at admission | No | Usually yes* (up to 4 years with continuing criteria) | Often ~3.4–3.8 core GPA* | Nov 14 (priority scholarship deadline) |
| Queens Scholar Award (Freshman) | Typically $6,000–$10,000/yr* Planning range; not an official published grid. |
Incoming first-year students; awarded automatically at admission | No | Usually yes* (up to 4 years with continuing criteria) | Many admitted students receive an award in this general range, depending on profile* | Nov 14 (priority scholarship deadline) |
| Transfer Merit Scholarship | $10,000–$24,000/yr Queens describes this as GPA-based for transfers; exact tiering can vary by year. |
Transfer applicants; merit typically tied to transfer GPA | No | Usually yes* (with continuing criteria) | Transfers with stronger GPAs (often ~3.2+* for higher tiers) | Rolling (apply early for best consideration) |
| Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Scholarship (Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society) |
Typically around $2,000/yr* Amount can vary; confirm in the award letter. |
Transfer students who are verified PTK members | No (membership verification required) | Usually yes* (with continuing criteria) | PTK members who complete transfer admission steps and provide proof of membership | Rolling (earlier is better) |
| Queens Commitment (RoyalUp) | Guaranteed minimum $10,000/yr* Program-based guarantee for eligible CPCC pathway students. |
Transfer students via RoyalUp partnership with Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) | No (must be RoyalUp-eligible) | Usually yes* (with continuing criteria) | RoyalUp pathway students meeting transfer and program requirements | Rolling (follow program timeline) |
| Legacy Scholarship | $1,000/yr Often treated as a small add-on award for eligible students (confirm stacking). |
Children or siblings of Queens alumni | No (eligibility verification may be required) | Usually yes* (with continuing criteria) | Legacy students who are admitted and meet the alumni relationship requirement | Nov 14 (recommended for priority consideration) |
*GPA/test ranges are estimates based on past recipients and published profiles; actual thresholds can change by year.
Disclaimer: Award amounts, eligibility thresholds, renewal rules, and stacking policies can change annually based on funding and institutional priorities. Always confirm final terms in your student’s Queens financial aid award letter.
- Missing Nov 14 and then wondering why the merit offer feels lower than expected.
- Not marking Legacy status (or not listing the alum relationship clearly) on the initial application.
- Assuming departmental awards (Music, Preyer, etc.) work like automatic merit — many require extra steps and timelines.
- Treating competitive awards like CTI as “expected money” instead of a high-upside bonus.
Quick fix: Apply early, verify eligibility items in writing, and follow up with the office listed on the scholarship page.
Parents usually don’t see how the final number is built. Here’s a simple illustrative example of how a package might come together. (This is not a quote from Queens — award letters vary by year and student.)
- Main merit award: $22,000/yr (example)
- Legacy add-on: $1,000/yr (if eligible)
- Honors add-on: $1,000/yr (if admitted)
- Other stackable award: $1,000/yr (if eligible)
Illustrative institutional total: $25,000/yr
Takeaway: Smaller “extras” can matter when they stack on top of the main merit award.
- Main merit award: $12,000/yr (example)
- Legacy or program add-on: $1,000/yr (if eligible)
Illustrative institutional total: $13,000/yr
Takeaway: When budgeting, plan for the lower end of ranges — and treat the high end as a stretch outcome.
Important: Some awards may replace parts of other aid rather than stack fully. Always confirm stacking rules in the official award letter.
FAQ — Automatic Merit Scholarships at Queens University of Charlotte
Do I need a separate scholarship application for these awards?
Usually no. These merit scholarships are typically awarded automatically when your student is admitted.
(Competitive “flagship” programs are separate — those belong in the next section.)
Does applying by the Nov 14 priority deadline matter?
Yes. Queens lists Nov 14 as a priority scholarship deadline. If your student wants the strongest merit consideration,
treat that date as the real target — even if admissions is rolling.
If Queens is test-optional, should my student still submit ACT/SAT scores?
It depends. A strong GPA can be enough, but submitting strong scores can help in merit placement for some students.
If your student’s GPA is close to a higher tier, test scores (if submitted) can sometimes help “bump” the merit level.
Do these scholarships stack with each other?
Often, Queens awards a primary admission-based merit scholarship, and some smaller awards (like Legacy or PTK for transfers) may be added on top.
However, stacking rules vary by student and year — the award letter is the source of truth.
How do transfer scholarships work at Queens?
Queens offers transfer merit that is typically tied to transfer GPA, plus additional opportunities like the
Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) scholarship and the RoyalUp partnership pathway guarantee for eligible students.
Does Queens superscore ACT or SAT?
Queens is test-optional. If your student is submitting scores from multiple test dates, it’s worth confirming with admissions how Queens evaluates those scores for merit placement (superscore vs. best single sitting).
Is nursing test-optional too?
Queens is test-optional for most applicants, but nursing pathways can have additional requirements. If your student is applying to nursing, confirm the program’s current admissions testing requirements directly with Queens.
https://www.queens.edu/afford/scholarships/
https://www.queens.edu/admissions/
https://www.queens.edu/admissions/transfer-admission-process/
https://www.queens.edu/admissions/royalup/
https://www.queens.edu/admissions/high-school-admission-process/
🏆 Flagship (Competitive) Scholarships at Queens University of Charlotte (2026–2027)
These are Queens’ highest-impact scholarships — the kind that can cover full tuition (or even a full ride), but they’re competitive and typically require extra steps beyond the standard admission application.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility / Criteria | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Typically Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Talent Initiative (CTI) Scholarship |
Full ride (tuition + housing + meals) Includes mentorship/corporate partner programming (per CTI program details). |
Charlotte-Mecklenburg–area students with financial need; must meet CTI program requirements (Eligibility is program-specific — confirm residency/school system requirements on the CTI page.) |
Yes (CTI program process) | Usually yes* (with continuing eligibility/academic progress) | Local students with strong academic readiness + documented financial need + strong follow-through on program steps (application, documentation, interviews/mentorship requirements as applicable). |
Check CTI timeline* (posted annually). Tip: applying by Nov 14 (Queens priority scholarship deadline) is smart if your student is CTI-eligible. |
| CPCC Presidential Scholarship |
Full tuition Highly competitive; typically awarded to a very small number of students. |
Transfer students from Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC); must meet scholarship requirements and be admitted to Queens | Yes (competitive selection process) | Usually yes* (with continuing criteria) | Top-performing CPCC transfers with excellent grades and strong involvement/leadership — often students who also communicate early and complete every required step. | Varies by cycle* — apply early through the CPCC-to-Queens pathway and confirm the annual timeline. |
*Deadlines and renewal terms can vary by year and cohort. Confirm the current cycle’s CTI and CPCC Presidential timelines on the official program pages and in your student’s award letter.
Disclaimer: Flagship awards are competitive and limited. Some programs require financial-need verification and may replace (not stack with) other institutional aid. Always confirm award terms, renewal GPA requirements, and stacking rules directly with Queens.
The Charlotte Talent Initiative (CTI) is a high-impact opportunity, but it’s competitive and eligibility-based. Here’s a simple checklist families can use to avoid preventable misses.
- Confirm eligibility early: Make sure your student meets the residency/school-district requirements listed on the CTI page.
- Apply by the priority window: Treat Nov 14 as your “don’t-miss” date unless CTI materials state otherwise.
- File financial aid early: Competitive need-based programs often depend on complete financial aid files. Submit FAFSA as early as possible.
- Build the right recommendations: Ask recommenders to highlight reliability, follow-through, and leadership — not just grades.
- Plan safely: Budget as if CTI won’t happen, and treat it as a bonus if it does.
Tip: If CTI is a top priority, call admissions early and ask what “complete” looks like for CTI consideration (forms, timing, and documentation).
FAQ — Flagship Scholarships at Queens University of Charlotte
What makes these “flagship” scholarships different from automatic merit?
Automatic merit is usually awarded at admission based on your student’s overall profile. Flagship scholarships are different:
they’re limited-seat awards (sometimes full tuition or a full ride) that usually require a separate process like additional documentation,
interviews, or program eligibility.
Is the Charlotte Talent Initiative (CTI) really a full ride?
Yes — CTI is designed to cover the biggest billed costs (tuition plus housing and meals) for eligible students, but it is competitive and
typically tied to local eligibility + financial need + program participation. Treat it like a selective program, not a general merit scholarship.
If my student is CTI-eligible, what should we do first?
Start by reviewing the CTI requirements carefully, then make sure your student applies to Queens early (aim for the Nov 14 priority scholarship date)
and completes every CTI-specific step on time (forms, verification documents, and any interviews or partner-program requirements).
Do CTI and other flagship awards stack with automatic merit?
Sometimes, but not always. Full-ride style programs often “fill the gap” up to a certain cost level, and the school may adjust other awards accordingly.
The award letter is the final authority on what stacks.
How competitive is the CPCC Presidential Scholarship?
Very. It’s typically awarded to a very small number of transfer students from CPCC each year. Students who tend to win usually have strong grades,
solid academic momentum, and clear follow-through on the transfer pathway steps.
What’s the best strategy to improve chances for these awards?
(1) Apply early, (2) complete every extra requirement (documents, essays, interviews), (3) show consistent academic strength, and
(4) demonstrate reliability — selective programs look for students who follow instructions and meet deadlines without reminders.
https://www.queens.edu/afford/charlotte-talent-initiative/
https://www.queens.edu/afford/scholarships/
https://www.queens.edu/admissions/transfer-admission-process/
🎖 Honors Program at Queens University of Charlotte (2026–2027)
Queens does not operate a standalone “Honors College,” but it does offer a selective University Honors Program designed for academically motivated students who want smaller classes, deeper faculty engagement, and enhanced academic opportunities.
| Program / Award | Scholarship Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | What Honors Students Receive | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University Honors Program | $1,000/yr (Honors Program Scholarship) | Strong academic record; holistic review of application materials | Yes (Honors application) | Usually yes* (with academic progress) | Smaller seminar-style courses, priority registration, faculty mentorship, research opportunities, and enhanced advising | Varies* (early application recommended) |
*Scholarship renewal and program requirements depend on maintaining good academic standing and continued participation in the Honors Program. Specific criteria are outlined in the Honors acceptance and award letter.
FAQ — Honors Program at Queens University of Charlotte
Is the Honors Program the same as an Honors College?
No. Queens operates a University Honors Program, not a separate Honors College.
Students remain fully enrolled in their major while completing honors coursework and experiences.
How competitive is admission to the Honors Program?
Admission is selective and based on a holistic review. Strong grades matter, but essays, recommendations,
and demonstrated intellectual curiosity also play an important role.
Do students have to apply separately?
Yes. Interested students must complete an Honors Program application in addition to the general admission application.
Does the Honors Program offer priority registration?
Yes. Honors students typically receive priority course registration, which can be a major advantage
when scheduling required or high-demand classes.
Is the $1,000 Honors scholarship guaranteed for four years?
Not automatically. The scholarship is usually renewable, but students must meet academic and participation requirements
outlined in their award letter.
Is the Honors Program worth it?
For students who value smaller classes, closer faculty relationships, and academic enrichment,
the Honors Program can significantly enhance the Queens experience — even beyond the modest scholarship amount.
https://www.queens.edu/academics/honors-program/
https://www.queens.edu/afford/scholarships/
⭐ College Specialty
Queens University of Charlotte is a private, urban university known for pairing career-ready professional programs with a strong liberal arts core. Families are often drawn to Queens for its small classes, close faculty access, and clear pathways into health care, business, and creative fields — especially in the fast-growing Charlotte metro area.
When you’re comparing private colleges, don’t just compare sticker price — compare access. Queens students are in the Charlotte metro area, which often means more internship options, more networking events, and more part-time job flexibility than a similar school in a smaller town.
- Business & communications: More chances for internships during the school year (not just summer).
- Nursing & health-related majors: Proximity to major health systems can translate into stronger clinical and career pipelines.
- Career momentum: Networking and employer exposure can reduce “post-grad scramble” — which is part of the real return on investment.
Parent tip: Ask each department what percent of students complete an internship or clinical placement before graduation — it’s one of the best “value” indicators.
Nursing & Health Sciences — Queens’ nursing program is one of its most visible and competitive offerings, with strong clinical placement partnerships across the Charlotte region and a reputation for producing practice-ready graduates. Direct-admit nursing is selective and follows additional admission criteria beyond the general university process.
- Business: Programs emphasize practical experience, internships, and leadership development, benefiting from Queens’ proximity to Charlotte’s banking, finance, and corporate headquarters.
- Communication & Graphic Design: Known for blending creative coursework with real-world projects, preparing students for careers in media, design, marketing, and digital communication.
- Music & Music Therapy: A signature arts area at Queens, with strong faculty mentorship and audition-based opportunities, particularly well regarded for students pursuing music therapy and applied performance.
- Liberal Arts with Career Focus: Even non-professional majors benefit from Queens’ emphasis on writing, presentation, global learning, and experiential education, including study-abroad and internship options.
For families looking for a small private university that balances academic rigor with hands-on preparation — especially in health, business, and creative fields — Queens offers a distinctive, career-oriented experience.
🔗 Official Queens University of Charlotte Links
Use Queens’ official university resources below to verify admissions details, scholarship policies, costs, and academic programs. Always rely on these pages for final deadlines, eligibility rules, and award terms.
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Undergraduate Admissions:
Applying to Queens
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Application Deadlines & Early Action:
Undergraduate Admission Process
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Scholarships & Institutional Aid:
Scholarships
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Tuition, Fees & Cost of Attendance:
Tuition, Scholarships & Aid
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Net Price Calculator:
https://npc.collegeboard.org/app/queensuniversityofcharlotte -
Honors Program:
Honors Program
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Common Data Set / Student Profile:
https://www.queens.edu/offices/institutional-research/