Stephen F. Austin State University Scholarships (2025–2026)
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- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
- Competitive and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
- Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~78% (CDS 2024–25; recent range 74–88%)
- Middle 50% ACT: 18–24
- Middle 50% SAT: 950–1160
- Average HS GPA: 3.5 (weighted)
Source: SFA Common Data Set 2024–25, IPEDS 2023–24, and Undergraduate Admissions.
Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
SFA at a Glance
Last verified: October 14, 2025
Stephen F. Austin State University offers a strong mix of affordability and opportunity, particularly for Texas residents who can stack institutional and state-based aid. Automatic scholarships start at modest amounts but increase significantly for top GPA/test score combinations.
This guide walks you through SFA’s automatic merit system, key competitive scholarships, and hidden funding sources—plus how out-of-state students can reduce tuition through merit-based waivers and stacking strategies.
FAQ
Is SFA test-optional? Yes — through 2026. Submitting scores can strengthen scholarship eligibility.
What’s the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT 18–24; SAT 950–1160 (CDS 2024–25).
What’s the average net price? About $15,498 per year after grants and scholarships, based on federal IPEDS data.
Does SFA offer out-of-state tuition waivers? Yes — nonresident students receiving $1,000+ in scholarships may qualify for in-state tuition rates.
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships/excellence
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships/regents
https://www.sfasu.edu/admissions-and-aid/financial-aid/types-of-aid/scholarships/regents-scholarship
https://catalog.sfasu.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=468
https://catalog.sfasu.edu/content.php?catoid=39&navoid=1773
https://sfasu.academicworks.com
https://www.sfasu.edu/sbs/tuition-fees/waivers/tec-54-213
https://www.sfasu.edu/sbs/tuition-fees/exemptions-waivers
https://www.sfasu.edu/coe/student-resources/scholarships
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/top-10-percent-scholarship-for-stephen-f-austin-state-university/5002643/
https://www.sfasu.edu/docs/institutional-research/ipeds-executive-summary.pdf
https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/reported-datad-data/228431
💰 Cost of Attendance at Stephen F. Austin State University (2025–2026)
Below are the estimated direct, billed costs — tuition, mandatory fees, housing, and meals — for a full-time undergraduate student living on campus in Nacogdoches. These figures reflect SFA’s official 2025–2026 Cost of Attendance.
| In-State | Out-of-State | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $10,600 | $24,070 |
| Housing & Meals | $13,940 | $13,940 |
| Total (Direct/Billed) | $24,540 | $38,010 |
Note: These estimates reflect what you’ll actually pay SFA directly for tuition, required fees, housing, and meal plans. Other costs such as books (~$1,200), transportation (~$2,000), and personal expenses (~$2,500) vary by student and are not billed by the university.
📉 Average Net Price (after aid)
The most recent federal data show an overall average net price of $15,498 per year after scholarships and grants. Students from lower-income families (<$30,000) typically pay closer to $10,757, while higher-income families (>$110,000) average around $21,919. Learn how Net Price and your Student Aid Index (SAI) affect cost: Net Price & SAI Guide.
SFA participates in the Academic Common Market (ACM) at the graduate level, allowing eligible students from participating SREB states to pay in-state rates for select programs. Additional tuition waivers include:
- Competitive Scholarship Waiver: Out-of-state students awarded at least $1,000 in competitive SFA scholarships may qualify for in-state tuition.
- Graduate Assistant Waiver: Teaching or research assistants (and dependents) qualify for in-state tuition while employed half-time or more.
- Military & Veteran Waivers: Includes the Hazlewood Act and federal GI Bill–related in-state benefits.
Savings example: Out-of-state tuition is about $24,070 vs. $10,600 in-state — a potential difference of roughly $13,000 per year when qualifying through ACM or a waiver.
👉 Texas State Grants & Scholarships
FAQ — Understanding SFA Costs
Why does out-of-state tuition cost so much more?
Nonresident students pay about $13,000 more per year than Texas residents in tuition and fees. However, qualifying for the Competitive Scholarship Waiver or certain military/assistantship waivers can reduce tuition to the in-state rate.
What’s actually included in the $24,540 and $38,010 totals?
These totals include only the direct costs billed by SFA—tuition, required fees, housing, and meals. Indirect expenses like books, personal costs, and travel are not included because they vary by student.
Does SFA participate in the Academic Common Market?
Yes, but only for graduate-level programs. Undergraduate students can still qualify for in-state tuition through competitive scholarships or military-related waivers.
Can out-of-state students get in-state rates without moving to Texas?
Yes. Earning at least $1,000 in competitive SFA scholarships makes nonresidents eligible for the Competitive Scholarship Waiver, which grants in-state tuition for the covered term(s).
What’s the average amount students pay after aid?
The typical SFA student pays around $15,500 per year after scholarships and grants, though lower-income families often pay closer to $10,700.
What state aid can Texas residents use?
Eligible Texans can combine TEXAS Grants, Tuition Equalization Grants, and local SFA scholarships to reduce total cost. These awards can stack with merit-based aid and institutional scholarships.
Do housing and meal plan costs vary?
Yes. The $13,940 estimate is based on a standard double-room and full meal plan. Different residence halls and meal plans can shift costs by several hundred dollars each semester.
https://www.sfasu.edu/sbs/tuition-fees/plans-rates
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/coa
https://www.sfasu.edu/docs/student-business-services/tuition-rate-table-guaranteed-price-plan-2025-26.pdf
https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/edu/228431/stephen-f-austin-state-university/tuition/
https://www.sfasu.edu/sbs/tuition-fees/waivers/tec-54-213
https://www.sfasu.edu/sbs/tuition-fees/exemptions-waivers
https://www.sfasu.edu/reslife
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships/excellence
https://www.sfasu.edu/docs/institutional-research/ipeds-executive-summary.pdf
https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/reported-datadata/228431
Automatic Merit Scholarships — Stephen F. Austin State University
| Scholarship | Award Amount (per year) | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purple Award | $3,000 | Weighted GPA 3.0 + ACT 20 / SAT 1030 + | No | Yes (4 years) | Many students with solid academics — not only top scorers — qualify. | Nov 1 Priority |
| Axe Award | $5,000 | Weighted GPA 3.5 + ACT 24 / SAT 1160 + | No | Yes (4 years) | Competitive but attainable for above-average GPA and test scores. | Nov 1 Priority |
| Lumberjack Award | $8,000 | Weighted GPA 3.75 + ACT 28 / SAT 1310 + | No | Yes (4 years) | Typically top academic applicants; strong extracurriculars help if near the cutoff. | Nov 1 Priority |
Note: GPA is weighted based on the high-school transcript. Awards are available to both in-state and out-of-state students. Nonresidents who earn at least $1,000 in SFA scholarships also receive an automatic out-of-state tuition waiver, reducing tuition to the in-state rate.
Automatic Merit FAQs — Stephen F. Austin State University
Do I need a separate application?
No — these awards are automatic with admission. Apply by the priority deadline for best consideration.
Does SFA use weighted or unweighted GPA?
SFA uses the weighted GPA from your high-school transcript, so AP, IB, and Dual Credit courses can improve eligibility and award tiers.
Do test scores matter if I apply test-optional?
Yes. Submitting ACT/SAT scores can move you into a higher award tier. Without scores, you may qualify for the GPA-only tier, but the award amount may be smaller.
How do I keep the award each year?
Maintain full-time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress (each scholarship specifies its own GPA minimum). Renewal is typically for up to four years.
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships/excellence
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships
https://www.sfasu.edu/sbs/tuition-fees/waivers/tec-54-213
https://catalog.sfasu.edu/content.php?catoid=39&navoid=1766
https://sfasu.academicworks.com/opportunities/23821
Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships)
Stephen F. Austin State University offers several highly selective scholarships that require essays, applications, or departmental nominations. These aren’t automatic awards — students must apply, demonstrate leadership or service, and meet GPA and deadline requirements.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regents Scholarship | $8,000–$12,000 per year Most recipients receive $10,000/year; top few $12,000/year |
Incoming freshmen with weighted GPA 3.5+; leadership and service; essay required | Yes | Yes — 4 years | Only about 10–15 students per year; winners have high GPAs, strong essays, and multiple years of leadership/service. | Feb. 1 |
| Community Impact Scholarship | $2,000–$5,000 per year | Weighted GPA 3.0+; sustained volunteer/service work; essay describing impact | Yes | Yes | Students with consistent community involvement or leadership in service-based organizations | Mar. 1 |
| College & Departmental Scholarships | $500–$3,000 per year | Varies by major; usually GPA 3.0+ and short application or recommendation | Yes — varies | Varies | Students who connect with professors or apply early within their college | Varies |
Most Regents Scholars have:
- Weighted GPA of 3.8–4.0
- ACT 28+ or SAT 1300+
- Multiple leadership roles (officer, captain, or community organizer)
- Strong, specific essays about goals and impact
- Several years of documented service work
FAQs: Competitive Scholarships at SFA
Are these worth the effort?
Yes — even smaller awards can stack with merit or need-based aid. Regents and Community Impact recipients often reduce their total cost by thousands per year.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Absolutely. Just track deadlines and tailor your essays to match each scholarship’s focus.
Do I need test scores?
Not always, but the highest awards (like Regents) typically favor students who submit strong ACT/SAT scores alongside top GPAs.
Where do I apply?
Through SFA’s centralized Scholarship Application Portal, which opens each fall. Apply early for full consideration.
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships/regents
https://sfasu.academicworks.com/opportunities/23495
https://www.fastweb.com/college-scholarships/scholarships/181176-university-regents-scholarship-stephen-f-austin-state-university
https://www.sfasu.edu/coe/student-resources/scholarships
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/college-of-fine-arts-departmental-scholarship/17096/
https://www.sfasu.edu/academics/colleges/sciences-math/student-resources/scholarships
https://www.sfasu.edu/ecofin/student-resources/awards-scholarshipsships
Honors College at Stephen F. Austin State University
The School of Honors at Stephen F. Austin State University gives driven students the opportunity to explore deeper academic challenges with close faculty guidance and a supportive community. Admission is by separate application and considers GPA, essays, optional test scores, and recommendations.
- Weighted GPA ~3.7–4.0; strong writing and reflective essays
- AP, IB, or dual credit coursework in high school
- Demonstrated leadership, service, or work experience
- First-generation, rural, and underrepresented students strongly encouraged to apply
Perks of the SFA School of Honors
- Priority registration and small honors seminars
- Honors housing (Wisely Hall) with a quiet, academic atmosphere
- Undergraduate research and faculty mentorship
- Dedicated advising and travel or study-abroad support
- Special transcript and diploma recognition for graduates (University Scholar distinction)
Honors Distinction & Membership
| Track / Distinction | Key Requirements | Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| University Scholar (Graduation Distinction) | Complete 24 Honors credits (12 upper-division); maintain 3.0 GPA in Honors courses (no more than two C’s) and a 3.25 overall GPA while remaining a member in good standing. | Honors cords, medallion, diploma & transcript notation |
| School of Honors Membership | Take at least 6 Honors credits per year; maintain 3.25 cumulative GPA; full-time enrollment (12+ hours fall/spring). | Access to Honors housing, advising, and internal scholarships |
Honors Scholarships
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisely Award | Up to $1,000 (one-time) | Full Honors member; GPA ≥3.25; returning next academic year | Yes | No | Active Honors students maintaining GPA and involvement | Feb 1 |
| Study Abroad Honors Stipend | $500–$1,000 (one-time) | Honors student in good standing participating in faculty-led study abroad | Yes — short app | No | Engaged Honors students applying early for travel funding | March 1 |
| Departmental Honors Awards | $500–$2,000/year | Honors students in designated majors (Forestry, Nursing, Music, etc.) | Varies by department | Varies | Selected by faculty committees; GPA & campus involvement matter | Varies |
Honors FAQs
Does SFA have multiple honors tiers?
Not formally. The School of Honors offers membership in good standing and the University Scholar graduation distinction. There are no bronze/silver/gold tiers.
What are the main requirements for University Scholar?
24 total Honors credits (12 upper-division), 3.0 GPA in Honors courses, and a 3.25 cumulative GPA while maintaining full membership.
Is there a thesis or capstone?
No thesis is required, but some departments encourage optional research or creative projects as part of Honors coursework.
Where do Honors students live?
Many live in Wisely Hall, the designated Honors residence hall known for quiet study spaces and a strong academic community.
Are there special scholarships for Honors students?
Yes — the Wisely Award, study abroad stipends, and several departmental Honors scholarships support active Honors members.
https://catalog.sfasu.edu/content.php?catoid=24&navoid=1047
https://catalog.sfasu.edu/content.php?catoid=39&navoid=1768
https://www.sfasu.edu/finaid/scholarships/honors
https://sfasu.academicworks.com/opportunities/24215
https://www.sfasu.edu/international/study-abroad/cost-aid
https://www.sfasu.edu/academics/colleges/sciences-math/student-resources/scholarships
🏫 What Stephen F. Austin State University Is Known For
SFA stands out as a mid-sized public university in Nacogdoches, Texas, known for hands-on learning, a tight-knit campus, and degree programs deeply connected to regional and national communities.
- School of Music – Ranked **#5 in the nation** among bachelor’s music schools by GradReports (2020), noted for strong alumni earnings and value.
- Environmental Science – Holds a **U.S. national ranking of #410**, and for forestry within environmental science, it ranks around **#132 nationally**.
- Kinesiology & Physical Therapy – Listed among the **top 79 programs** of its kind in America .
- Nursing – Rated **#310 nationally** among colleges for Nursing in the U.S..
- Accounting & Finance – Claimed a **#226 ranking nationally** among similar majors .
📎 Official Links
- Stephen F. Austin State University Homepage
- SFA School of Honors
- Scholarships & Financial Aid at SFA