Southern University Scholarships (2026–2027)
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Last Updated on May 26, 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: ~43%
- Middle 50% ACT: 18
- Middle 50% SAT: 950
- Average GPA: 3.2
🧭 Quick Admissions Strategy (based on where your student falls)
- Below the typical ranges: Admission is still very possible, but merit opportunities will be limited. Focus on getting test scores up — that’s your biggest lever here.
- In the typical ranges: You’re competitive for admission, but most meaningful scholarships are competitive — not automatic — so you’ll need to apply early and intentionally.
- Well above the ranges: This is where Southern becomes very interesting. You’re in the range for full-tuition or full-ride consideration, but you still need to treat those awards like a reach.
Comparing multiple schools?
Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 Southern University at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (Joseph S. Clark Presidential Scholarship & Honors College Scholarship (University Scholars))
Average Net Price
$19,740/year (in-state estimate)
Average paid for residents.
Automatic Merit
Check college site
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
22 opportunities
1 automatic · 3 competitive · 15 hidden gem · 3 honors
Typical Qualifiers
GPA 2.75+; ACT 24+ / SAT 1160+
Benchmarks for top-tier awards.
Testing Policy
Test-required
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Jan 5 • FAFSA: Mar 1
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Joseph S. Clark Presidential Scholarship & Honors College Scholarship (University Scholars)
Honors College
Honors Program Available
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at Southern University & A&M College (Read This First)
- Most major scholarships (including full tuition/full ride) are competitive — there is little to no broad automatic merit safety net.
- ACT/SAT scores are required for admission and scholarship consideration — this is not a true test-optional school.
- Top awards are limited and require strong academics (often ~3.6–3.8 GPA and ~28–30 ACT), so families should not plan on them as guaranteed.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? No — Southern University is test-required.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 18; SAT: 950.
Average net price? About $19,740/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes — participates in ACM.
💰 Cost of Attendance at Southern 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) |
$9,922 |
$17,272 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$8,018 |
$8,018 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$17,940 |
$25,290 |
Average Federal Net Price: $19,740 — 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.
Out-of-State Fee Waivers & ACM: Southern University offers the
Jaguar Out-of-State Fee Waiver, which waives 100% of non-resident fees for eligible freshmen and transfers (minimum 2.75 GPA or ACT 24+). This brings out-of-state costs down to in-state levels — about a
$7,400 savings per year.
Southern also participates in the
Academic Common Market (ACM), a regional program that allows students from certain states to pay in-state tuition if their major isn’t offered at home. Savings vary but typically match the in-state rate when approved.
Cost & Waiver FAQ
Who qualifies for the Jaguar Out-of-State Fee Waiver?
New freshmen with at least a 2.75 GPA or ACT 24 (SAT 1160) and transfer students with a 2.75 GPA who file the FAFSA and enroll in 12+ credits per term.
How much does the waiver save?
It removes the non-resident fee, cutting about $7,400 per year from the out-of-state bill — making total costs nearly identical to in-state students.
Do I need to apply for ACM separately?
Yes. The Academic Common Market requires an application through your home state’s higher education office. Approval depends on your major and whether it’s offered in your state.
Sources:
SUBR Tuition & Fees – https://www.subr.edu/page/tuition-fees
SUBR Financial Aid – https://www.subr.edu/page/2048
Housing & Dining – https://www.subr.edu/page/housing
Jaguar Out-of-State Waiver – https://www.subr.edu/page/4987
Academic Common Market – https://www.sreb.org/academic-common-market
College Scorecard (Average Net Price) – https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?160621
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
Jaguar Out-of-State Fee Waiver
📅 Deadline: July 1
✓ Renews (2.75 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 2.8+ GPA✎ ~24 ACT✎ ~1160 SAT🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Waives 100% of the non-resident fee for eligible out-of-state students; other institutional and outside scholarships may stack up to cost of attendance, but the waiver itself replaces separate out-of-state charges.
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table describes this as a 100% non-resident fee waiver for qualifying new freshmen and transfers; renewable up to eight semesters (fall/spring only) with full-time enrollment and 2.75+ cumulative GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
New out-of-state freshmen with at least a 2.75 high school GPA or ACT 24+/SAT 1160+ and transfer students with a 2.75+ transfer GPA who enroll full time and maintain at least a 2.75 Southern cumulative GPA.
* 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: Amount reflects the published waiver of the out-of-state fee (not a fixed cash stipend). Other institutional or outside scholarships may stack up to the Cost of Attendance unless your award letter says otherwise.
Southern University also participates in the National Merit Scholarship Program, offering additional aid for Finalists.
Automatic Merit FAQ
How do I get considered for the waiver?
Apply for admission, submit your official test scores and transcript, file the FAFSA, and enroll full-time (12+ credits). If you meet the criteria, the waiver is applied without a separate scholarship application.
Is the award guaranteed for four years?
It’s renewable up to eight semesters if you maintain full-time enrollment each fall/spring and at least a 2.75 cumulative Southern GPA. Summer is not covered.
Do they superscore the ACT/SAT for the waiver?
Southern’s scholarship materials indicate scores should come from a single test date; no public statement confirms superscoring for this waiver. Plan to qualify using your best single official score report.
Can I stack this with other scholarships?
Often yes, but stacking rules can vary by award. The waiver removes the non-resident fee; other institutional or outside scholarships typically apply to remaining charges up to the Cost of Attendance. Always verify the stacking language in your award letter.
Sources:
Southern University Out-of-State Fee Waiver — https://www.subr.edu/page/1442
Southern University Financial Aid Deadlines — https://www.subr.edu/page/financialaid
Southern University Admissions — https://www.subr.edu/page/35
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
Southern University offers a handful of named, university-level scholarships that go beyond the automatic out-of-state fee waiver. These awards are competitive, meaning they’re limited in number and require stronger academics, applications, and sometimes essays or recommendations.
Full RideApp Required
Joseph S. Clark Presidential Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (3.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Ride
tuition_fees_room_board
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.8+ GPA✎ ~30 ACT✎ ~1400 SAT👥 ~Limited number of awards each year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers tuition, fees, room, and board for up to eight semesters; may replace other institutional awards including the Jaguar Out-of-State Fee Waiver.
📄
How to Apply
Submit Southern admission application, then complete the separate competitive scholarship application through the Southern University System Foundation/True Blue portal by the priority deadline.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing academic excellence, test scores, leadership, and service.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Scholarship PDF describes the Clark award as covering tuition, fees, room, and board for up to eight semesters for high-achieving freshmen who meet GPA and ACT/SAT thresholds and maintain at least a 3.5 Southern GPA with a 15-credit load.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Top academic freshmen with around a 3.8+ GPA and ACT of 30 or higher (or SAT about 1400+), plus strong leadership and service records.
Full TuitionApp Requiredpipeline
Jesse N. Stone Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition_and_fees
✘ Not stackable
⚠ High-merit award covering 100% of tuition and mandatory fees. Does not cover housing or meals.
🏫 3.6+ GPA✎ ~28 ACT✎ ~1320 SAT👥 ~Limited number of awards annually winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers tuition and fees for up to eight semesters; may supersede other institutional tuition awards such as the out-of-state fee waiver.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission and then submit the Jesse N. Stone/competitive scholarship application through the Southern University System Foundation portal by the January 5 priority deadline.
Selection criteria: Evaluated on academic profile, standardized test scores, leadership, and service.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Official materials describe the Stone Scholarship as a full-tuition and fee award for freshmen meeting specific GPA and ACT/SAT thresholds who maintain a 3.3 GPA and 15-credit load for renewal.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: High-achieving freshmen with at least a 3.6 GPA and ACT of 28 or higher (or SAT around 1320+) and documented leadership or service.
App Requiredgeographiclegacy
President's Legacy Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
⚠ Legacy waiver for students with at least one Southern alum parent; wipes out all out‑of‑state fees for up to four years but families still pay in‑state tuition, housing, and meals.
🏫 2.7+ GPA✎ ~20 ACT✎ ~1020 SAT👥 ~Limited number of slots each year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers tuition for up to eight semesters; amount may vary by year and typically replaces other institutional tuition awards when granted.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the competitive scholarship application through the Southern University System Foundation/True Blue portal after applying for admission; meet GPA and ACT/SAT cutoffs and priority deadline.
Selection criteria: Selection emphasizes meeting minimum GPA and test criteria plus evidence of potential and fit with Southern's mission.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Scholarship grid notes that recipients must enroll in at least 12 non-developmental credits per term, maintain a 2.5 cumulative GPA, and can receive the award for up to eight semesters.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Freshmen who meet minimum thresholds of 2.7 GPA and ACT 20 (with specified English and Math subscores) or SAT about 1020, and who show promise through their application.
* 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.
*GPA and test score ranges for the Clark and Stone awards are based on published thresholds. Actual cutoffs may shift depending on the year’s applicant pool and available funding.
Competitive Scholarship FAQ
What makes these scholarships competitive?
Unlike automatic awards, only a limited number of students are selected. Applicants need strong academics, leadership, and sometimes essays or recommendations to stand out.
Are there extra steps to apply?
Yes. You must submit a separate application through the Southern University System Foundation (True Blue portal) and meet priority deadlines, usually January 5.
Can I combine these with the Out-of-State Fee Waiver?
Stacking rules aren’t always clear. Some flagship awards may replace the waiver. Always check the details in your award letter.
When should I apply?
Apply for admission early and complete your scholarship application by the priority deadline (January 5). Competitive funds are limited and awarded to the strongest applicants.
Sources:
Southern University Scholarships — https://www.subr.edu/page/1442
Southern University System Foundation (True Blue) — https://foundation.sus.edu/true-blue/
Southern University Competitive Scholarship PDF — https://www.subr.edu/assets/subr/Scholarships.pdf
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
Beyond automatic and flagship awards, Southern has niche opportunities that can meaningfully cut costs — especially for students who match a major, join ROTC, or apply through the Foundation’s donor funds.
App Required
Clyde & Carrie W. McHenry Endowed Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (3 GPA)
$1,500–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~21 ACT✎ ~1060 SAT👥 ~Dependent on McHenry endowment earnings winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Intended to help first-generation students close remaining gaps after standard aid; can stack with other awards up to cost-of-attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Complete the Foundation application indicating first-generation status and providing GPA, ACT, and financial-need information; Financial Aid must verify significant need.
Selection criteria: Prioritizes first-generation status, academic performance, and level of unmet financial need.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table describes this as a $1,500–$3,000 per year endowed scholarship for first-generation students with solid academics and high financial need.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming first-generation students with at least a 3.0 GPA and ACT of 21 or higher plus documented significant financial need.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
College of Business Scholarships
📅 Deadline: February 28 / November 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA)
$1,000–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~18 ACT👥 ~Limited by College of Business scholarship budget each year winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Departmental awards generally supplement institutional and Foundation scholarships, up to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the College of Business scholarship or departmental application by the posted deadline, including transcripts and documentation of leadership or service if requested.
Selection criteria: Evaluated on academic performance, leadership and service, and alignment with business program goals.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table notes typical awards between $1,000 and $3,000 per year with separate timelines for incoming freshmen and continuing business students.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Business majors with GPAs at or above 3.0 and ACT scores often between 18 and the low 20s, who are active in student organizations or community service and submit competitive departmental applications.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
College of Sciences and Engineering Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies by donor
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$500–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~21 ACT✎ ~1060 SAT👥 ~Multiple awards available annually winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Awards range from $500-$5,000 per year and can stack with other institutional scholarships; renewal depends on donor specifications and maintaining 3.0 GPA.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to Southern with a declared CSE major, then complete the separate CSE scholarship application through the college's Google form portal.
Selection criteria: Based on academic performance, major declaration, test scores, and meeting donor-specific eligibility requirements.
💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Departmental scholarships funded by foundations, industries, corporations, and governmental agencies. Recipients receive awards for up to 4 years (8 semesters) based on donor-specified majors and eligibility. Freshmen need 3.0 HS GPA and ACT 21+; transfers and upperclassmen need 3.0 college GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming freshmen, transfer students, and upperclassmen enrolled full-time in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Civil/Environmental/Computer/Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or Construction Management with 3.0+ GPA and ACT 21+.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Computer Science Department Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (3 GPA)
$1,000–$2,500/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~Varies by departmental funding and number of active projects winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Intended to supplement other institutional and external aid; awards are often tied to sustained engagement in research or technical projects.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Computer Science Department for project- or research-based scholarships, outlining your planned faculty-mentored research or technical project and providing transcripts.
Selection criteria: Emphasizes academic record, quality of proposed research or project, and faculty support.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table summarizes these as CS department awards typically in the $1,000–$2,500 range linked to research or project participation; exact criteria and amounts depend on departmental funding.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Full-time Computer Science majors with at least a 3.0 GPA who propose or participate in faculty-mentored research or substantial technical projects.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Diageo Endowed Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (2.75 GPA)
$1,000–$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 2.8+ GPA👥 ~Dependent on Diageo endowment earnings each year winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Award is designed to supplement other aid for eligible majors; total aid cannot exceed cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Southern University System Foundation True Blue portal, indicating major and responding to any scholarship-specific questions.
Selection criteria: Consideration of GPA, major, and alignment with donor’s field and achievement expectations.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table describes this endowed scholarship as offering roughly $1,000–$2,000 per year with preference for select majors and a 2.75 minimum GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Full-time students with at least a 2.75 GPA, most often in Chemistry, Communications, Engineering, or Marketing, who meet donor preferences and submit strong Foundation applications.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Southern University System Foundation — Donor Scholarships
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews
$1,000–$8,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Varies by individual endowed or annual fund winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Donor scholarships are layered on top of institutional aid and outside awards up to cost-of-attendance limits; some named funds may have their own stacking or renewal conditions.
📄
How to Apply
Create an account in the Southern University System Foundation True Blue portal, complete the general application, and apply or be auto-matched to individual donor funds that fit your major, GPA, need, and class year.
Selection criteria: Selections consider alignment with donor-stated criteria, academic performance, financial need where applicable, and quality of application responses.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table summarizes typical annual awards in the $1,000–$8,000 range, with eligibility varying by named fund and including both residents and nonresidents.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who closely match donor criteria—such as major, GPA, leadership, or need—and submit strong applications through the True Blue system.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Marching Band (Human Jukebox) Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 31
✓ Renews
👥 ~Limited by band budget and ensemble needs winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Band scholarships may be combined with academic and Foundation awards, subject to university stacking and cost-of-attendance limits; higher awards may reduce certain other institutional funds.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Southern, register for a Human Jukebox audition, and complete the band’s scholarship and participation forms; awards are determined after audition and section placement.
Selection criteria: Awards are based on audition performance, musicianship, and contribution to ensemble balance and leadership.
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table notes scholarships ranging from roughly $2,000 up to packages that can cover tuition, fees, housing, and meals based on audition score and role; exact dollar amounts vary by year and funding.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Highly talented musicians who earn spots in the Human Jukebox marching band and receive top audition scores or hold key roles within the ensemble.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Presidential Fellows Program (Verizon)
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
👥 ~Cohort size limited by program funding each year winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stipend is paid in addition to other scholarships and grants; program participation expectations must be met for continued funding.
📄
How to Apply
Submit a Presidential Fellows Program application outlining leadership experience and goals; selected students join a leadership and mentoring cohort and receive the stipend.
Selection criteria: Selection based on demonstrated leadership, potential for impact, and quality of application materials.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table cites this as a Verizon-supported Presidential Fellows Program providing a $2,000 stipend, $1,000 per semester, for selected student leaders.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with clear leadership potential and strong applications who are selected for the Presidential Fellows leadership development cohort.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
A&A Wallace Endowed Benefactor Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (3 GPA)
$1,500–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~Controlled by A&A Wallace endowment returns winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
May be combined with institutional scholarships and grants, subject to cost-of-attendance limits; renewal depends on GPA and continued eligibility.
📄
How to Apply
Submit a Foundation application through the True Blue portal identifying an eligible STEM major and providing evidence of leadership and financial need.
Selection criteria: Weighted toward academic performance in STEM, leadership, and level of demonstrated need.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table lists typical awards around $1,500–$3,000 per year for STEM majors meeting GPA, leadership, and need criteria.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Chemistry, Mathematics, or Computer Science majors with at least a 3.0 GPA, leadership records, and demonstrated financial need.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Terry-Bacon Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies annually
Non-Renewable
🏫 2.7+ GPA👥 ~Limited number of awards winners/yr🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
Departmental scholarship for business majors that can stack with other institutional aid.
📄
How to Apply
Submit application through the College of Business including resume, personal essay, and letters of recommendation by the deadline.
Selection criteria: Evaluated on academic performance, essay quality, recommendations, and commitment to business field.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Scholarship announced for 2026-2027 academic year through College of Business. Requires resume, essay, and recommendation letters. Minimum 2.7 GPA required.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Sophomore and junior business majors with at least a 2.7 GPA who demonstrate strong academic performance and commitment to their field.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
ACS-HACH Land Grant Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~Limited awards annually winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Up to $10,000 per year award that stacks with other institutional scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Southern University System Foundation scholarship portal during the application window (typically opens November 1).
Selection criteria: Academic performance, major commitment, and alignment with chemistry/education career goals.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Foundation-supported scholarship for students majoring in Chemistry or Education with minimum 3.0 GPA requirement.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Chemistry or Education majors with strong academic records (3.0+ GPA) and career interest in chemistry or chemistry education.
App Required
Air Products Scholar
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.3+ GPA👥 ~Limited awards annually winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
$2,000 annual award that stacks with Honors and other institutional scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Southern University System Foundation scholarship portal during the application window; must be Honors student and meet parish residency requirements.
Selection criteria: Honors admission, Engineering major, geographic eligibility, and academic merit.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Foundation scholarship for Engineering/Honors students with specific Louisiana parish residency requirements. Renewable with 3.3 GPA and Honors standing.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Engineering students admitted to the D.M.R. Spikes Honors College who reside in specific Louisiana parishes.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews
$1,000–$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Varies with AKA fund contributions winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Acts as a supplemental award for students who still show financial need after other aid is applied.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Southern University System Foundation or sponsoring AKA chapter’s application, demonstrating financial need and good academic standing.
Selection criteria: Emphasizes financial need, academic standing, and alignment with AKA’s educational and service values.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table notes typical awards of about $1,000–$2,000 per year to help close remaining need for eligible students.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Full-time undergraduates who demonstrate financial need, maintain good standing, and are active in campus or community life, particularly those connected to AKA’s educational and service mission.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Brenda & Lennel Paul Scholarship
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews
👥 ~Determined by Brenda & Lennel Paul endowment funding winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Acts as a modest supplement to other aid for History majors with need.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Foundation True Blue portal and identify History as the major, including information on financial need.
Selection criteria: Focuses on financial need and commitment to the History major.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table identifies this as a roughly $1,000 per year award for History students with financial need.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: History majors who demonstrate verifiable financial need and meet departmental standards.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
CF Industries Foundation Scholars
📅 Deadline: January 5
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~Limited awards annually winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Up to $10,000 per year renewable for 4 years; stacks with other institutional aid.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the Southern University System Foundation scholarship portal during the application window; may have specific Louisiana parish residency requirements.
Selection criteria: Academic merit, major declaration, and meeting any geographic residency requirements.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Foundation scholarship for Engineering and Agriculture students with possible Louisiana parish residency requirements. Renewable for up to 4 years with 3.0 GPA maintenance.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Engineering and Agriculture majors who meet geographic restrictions and demonstrate strong academic performance.
* 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.
Disclaimer: Deadlines reflect the most recent program cycle. Some departmental awards and marching band auditions have deadlines posted on divisional/ensemble/college web pages; always confirm current application timelines directly.
Sources:
Southern University System Foundation — https://foundation.sus.edu/true-blue/
Southern University Financial Aid & Scholarships — https://www.subr.edu/page/1442
Army ROTC at Southern — https://www.subr.edu/page/1550
GoArmy National ROTC Scholarship — https://www.goarmy.com/rotc/scholarships.html
Southern University College of Business Scholarships — https://www.subr.edu/page/1481
Human Jukebox (Marching Band) — https://www.suhumanjukebox.com/join
🎖️ Honors College
Southern’s Dolores Margaret Richard (D.M.R.) Spikes Honors College gives high-achieving students a smaller community inside the larger campus. It’s designed for motivated learners who want priority registration, faculty mentorship, and the chance to graduate with a thesis on their transcript and diploma.
What a Typical Southern Honors Student Looks Like
High school GPA around 3.5 or higher, ACT scores in the mid-20s or above, rigorous coursework (AP/IB/Dual Enrollment), and evidence of leadership or service.
Perks That Matter
Priority course registration, Honors-only seminars and colloquia, access to faculty research and thesis mentoring, smaller class sizes, leadership programming, and recognition on transcript and diploma.
Full RideApp Required
Honors College Scholarship (University Scholars)
📅 Deadline: February 1
✓ Renews (3.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Ride
full_cost_of_attendance
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.5+ GPA✎ ~26 ACT✎ ~1240 SAT👥 ~Small cohort of University Scholars selected annually winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Comprehensive full-ride package that typically replaces other institutional tuition, housing, and meal plan awards.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to Southern and submit a separate application to the D.M.R. Spikes Honors College; top admitted Honors freshmen may be selected as University Scholars and awarded the full-ride package.
Selection criteria: Holistic Honors review emphasizing academic excellence, rigor, test scores, leadership, and service.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table describes this as a full-ride award covering tuition, fees, room, board, and books for University Scholars within the Honors College, renewable with Honors standing and high GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Top-tier incoming Honors freshmen with the strongest GPAs, test scores, and leadership/service profiles among the Honors College applicant pool.
App Required
Honors College Annual Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 1
✓ Renews (3.3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.3+ GPA✎ ~24 ACT✎ ~1160 SAT👥 ~Limited by Honors College scholarship budget each year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Scholarship amount scales with academic profile and can supplement other institutional awards, subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the Honors College application by the priority deadline; admitted Honors freshmen are considered for sliding-scale annual awards based on GPA and ACT/SAT scores.
Selection criteria: Awards scale based on GPA, standardized test scores, and overall strength of Honors application.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table describes a sliding-scale Honors award where ACT ≥24 and GPA ≥3.3 meet the minimum bar, with higher GPAs and scores yielding larger annual amounts.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming Honors freshmen with at least a mid‑3s GPA and ACT scores in the mid‑20s or higher whose academics place them above the minimum Honors threshold.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Honors College Keystone Scholar Award
📅 Deadline: April 1
✓ Renews (2 yrs)
👥 ~Limited number of Keystone awards offered each year winners/yr🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
Provides an additional two-year Honors scholarship on top of any existing aid once students enter the Keystone curriculum.
📄
How to Apply
Apply or be invited into the Honors Keystone Program as a rising junior and complete the Keystone Scholar application by the April 1 deadline.
Selection criteria: Focuses on prior Honors performance, GPA, and commitment to completing the Keystone thesis/curriculum.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table notes that Keystone Scholars receive an annual award for two years once they begin the upper-division Honors Keystone curriculum.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Rising junior Honors students who enter the Keystone Program and show strong academic performance and engagement in Honors coursework.
* 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.
- Honors College Keystone Scholar Award: For rising juniors admitted into the Honors Keystone Program. Provides an annual scholarship for two years once students begin the Keystone curriculum. Deadline: April 1 (junior cycle; year omitted)
Honors College FAQ
Is admission automatic?
No. Students must apply separately to the Honors College, including transcripts, test scores, an essay, and letters of recommendation.
Does Honors add time to a degree?
No — Honors courses and the thesis are designed to fit within a standard four-year degree plan.
When should I apply?
It’s best to apply as early as possible, ideally by the university’s scholarship priority date (February 1). Space is limited.
Does the Honors College come with extra scholarship money?
Yes. Honors students may compete for dedicated scholarships ranging from partial tuition support up to a full-ride package.
Sources:
D.M.R. Spikes Honors College — https://www.subr.edu/page/1633
Honors College Scholarships — https://www.subr.edu/page/1635
Southern University Admissions — https://www.subr.edu/page/35
⭐ College Specialty
Southern University and A&M College isn’t just Louisiana’s flagship HBCU — it’s also a land-grant institution with deep roots in agriculture, engineering, and the arts. Families should know that while the campus is best known for its culture and marching band, it also houses academic programs with statewide recognition and strong career pipelines.
Signature Program: Human Jukebox Marching Band
Widely recognized as one of the nation’s most iconic collegiate marching bands, the “Human Jukebox” has performed at Super Bowls, Presidential inaugurations, and international events. Students selected for the band often receive substantial scholarships tied to their audition performance.
- College of Engineering — ABET-accredited programs in Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering; a steady pipeline of graduates into Louisiana’s industry and public sector.
- Agricultural Research & Extension Center — As Louisiana’s 1890 land-grant institution, Southern delivers statewide impact through agricultural research, 4-H programs, and community outreach.
- Nursing — The School of Nursing prepares a large share of minority nurses in Louisiana, with NCLEX pass rates consistently near the state average.
- Business — The College of Business has produced many of the state’s Black business leaders, supported by internships and corporate partnerships in Baton Rouge and New Orleans.
Final Thoughts
Southern University brings together history, culture, and opportunity in a way that’s hard to match. From the Human Jukebox band to the Dolores Margaret Richard Spikes Honors College, families will find both tradition and pathways to real savings. With automatic waivers, competitive scholarships, hidden gems, and honors perks, there’s more than one way to make Southern affordable—and more than one reason it continues to attract students from across Louisiana and beyond.
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