Tulane University Scholarships 2026-2027 | Costs & Aid

Tulane University Scholarships (2026–2027)

← Back to college scholarships hubSee Louisiana aid & Grants

Last Updated on May 25, 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: ~14%
  • Middle 50% ACT: 33
  • Middle 50% SAT: 1455
  • Average GPA: 3.8
🧭 Quick Admissions Strategy (based on where your student falls)

  • Below the typical ranges: This is a high reach. Even strong students get turned away, so build a balanced list with real safeties and matches.
  • In the typical ranges: Still a reach. Tulane’s acceptance rate is low and heavily influenced by demonstrated interest, essays, and fit—not just stats.
  • Well above the ranges: You’re competitive for admission and merit, but full-tuition and full-ride awards are extremely selective and require standout essays and leadership.

Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →

📌 Tulane University at a Glance

🏆 Full tuition available (Dean’s Honor Scholarship & Legislative Scholars Program)
Average Net Price
$43,939/year
Average paid.
Automatic Merit
Up to $32,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
15 opportunities
1 automatic · 7 competitive · 5 hidden gem · 2 honors
Merit Evaluation
Holistic Review / Varies
Merit depends on profile rigor.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Nov 15 • FAFSA: Feb 15
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Dean’s Honor Scholarship & Legislative Scholars Program
Honors College
Honors Program Available
Financial Aid Forms
FAFSA & CSS Profile
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at Tulane University (Read This First)

  • The biggest scholarships (Dean’s Honor, Paul Tulane, Community Service, Stamps) require a separate application due December 5—miss that and they’re gone.
  • Tulane is far more selective than it looks—admissions and top scholarships heavily depend on essays, demonstrated interest, and overall fit, not just GPA/test scores.

FAQ

Is this college test-optional? Yes — Tulane University is test-optional.

What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 33; SAT: 1455.

Average net price? About $43,939/yearyear after aid.

Does this school use waivers/reciprocity? No — private school; same rate for all.


Sources:
Tulane Office of Admission – Merit Scholarships: https://admission.tulane.edu/tuition-aid/merit-scholarships
Tulane Merit and Performance Scholarships: https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types-of-aid/gifts/undergraduate/partial-tuition-merit-scholarships
Tulane Community Service Scholarship: https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types-of-aid/gifts/undergraduate/community-service-scholarship
Tulane Scholarships for Current Newcomb-Tulane College Students: https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types-of-aid/gifts/undergraduate/scholarships-for-current-undergrads
Tulane Scholar Societies and Cowen Scholars: https://firstyear.tulane.edu/programs/scholar-societies
Tulane Dean’s Honor Scholarship: https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types-of-aid/gifts/undergraduate/dhs
Tulane Financial Aid Opportunities – Mayoral Scholars Program: https://financialaid.tulane.edu/system/files/2025-01/Financial-Aid-Overview_UG-Admission_2024-2025.pdf
Tulane Financial Aid for Louisiana Residents: https://admission.tulane.edu/tuition-aid/louisiana-residents
Tulane Louisiana Promise: https://admission.tulane.edu/louisiana-promise
Tulane National Merit Scholarship: https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types-of-aid/gifts/undergraduate/national-merit-scholarship
Tulane Paul Tulane Award: https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types-of-aid/gifts/undergraduate/paul-tulane-award
Tulane Financial Aid – Undergraduate Merit Scholarships: https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types-of-aid/gifts/undergraduate
CollegeScorecard / Admissions: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/

💰 Cost of Attendance at Tulane 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) $71,998 $71,998
Housing & Meals (typical) $19,630 $19,630
Total (Direct Costs) $91,628 $91,628

Average Federal Net Price: $43,939 — 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.


Reciprocity & Regional Programs: Tulane is a private university and does not participate in public tuition exchange programs such as WUE or MSEP. Louisiana residents may combine TOPS state aid with Tulane scholarships and grants, but there is no out-of-state discount program.

Cost of Attendance FAQ

Why are in-state and out-of-state costs the same?
Tulane is a private university, so all undergraduates—regardless of residency—pay the same tuition and fees.

What does “net price” actually mean?
It’s the average amount families paid after subtracting scholarships and grants from the full cost of attendance. Tulane’s most recent federal net price was $50,631.

Does Tulane require the CSS Profile?
Yes. To be considered for institutional need-based aid, students must submit both the CSS Profile and the FAFSA by Tulane’s priority deadline.

Can Louisiana residents use state aid?
Yes. Eligible residents may apply Louisiana’s TOPS scholarships toward Tulane tuition.

Sources:
https://studentaccounts.tulane.edu/content/undergraduate-tuition-fees
https://admission.tulane.edu/tuition-aid/financial-aid
https://admission.tulane.edu/tuition-aid/net-price-calculator
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?160755-Tulane-University-of-Louisiana=
https://mylosfa.la.gov/programs/tops/

✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships

Tulane automatically considers every applicant for partial merit scholarships when they apply through the Common App. Awards can be substantial, but the exact amount depends on GPA, test scores (if submitted), rigor, and overall strength of the application.

Automatic
Admission-Based Merit Scholarship
📅 Deadline: November 1
✓ Renews (2.7 GPA, 4 yrs)
$32,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based

Stacking & Combining
Partial tuition merit may be combined with need-based aid and outside scholarships up to cost of attendance. Tulane’s larger full-tuition or special program scholarships generally replace lower partial merit rather than stacking on top of it.

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: Tulane does review applicants automatically for partial merit, but this is not the same thing as a published GPA/ACT grid. Families should treat it as holistic merit that depends on the strength of the admitted class, not as money they can calculate in advance.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Admitted students with strong grades, rigorous coursework, and a compelling overall application. This is automatic review, not guaranteed automatic merit, so parents should not treat the $32,000 maximum as a predictable grid award.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.

Note: GPA/test ranges above are holistic. Tulane does not publish fixed merit grids, so awards are based on a full review of your file.

Also worth noting: Tulane sponsors National Merit Scholarships. Finalists who name Tulane as their first-choice school receive at least $2,000/year, and these can be combined with merit awards.

Do I need to apply separately for these scholarships?
No — all students are automatically considered when they apply for admission. The Common App plus FAFSA and, if required, the CSS Profile are all you need.

Does Tulane superscore test results?
Yes, Tulane uses the highest subscores across multiple SAT/ACT sittings if you submit them.

Can these stack with other aid?
Partial merit can usually be combined with need-based aid. National Merit scholarships stack, but flagship-level awards (such as Stamps or Dean’s Honor) replace lesser tuition awards.

Sources:
Tulane Merit Scholarships – https://admission.tulane.edu/tuition-aid/merit-scholarships
Tulane Financial Aid – https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types/scholarships
Tulane National Merit – https://financialaid.tulane.edu/scholarships/national-merit

🏆 Flagship (Competitive) Scholarships

These are Tulane’s most prestigious, competitive merit scholarships. They go beyond automatic awards and typically cover full tuition or even the full cost of attendance. Only a small number of students are selected each year, and most must submit supplements or participate in interviews.

App Required
Community Service Scholarship/Fellowship
📅 Deadline: December 5
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based

Stacking & Combining
Service scholarships coordinate with other Tulane merit awards. Some public service awards may reach full tuition and would replace lower partial merit rather than stack on top of it.

📄
How to Apply
Submit Tulane’s Community Service scholarship application through the Green Wave Portal by the December scholarship deadline, including the required service résumé, written responses, and any additional materials requested for service-based scholarship review.
Selection criteria: Holistic review of service depth, impact, leadership, civic commitment, and academic readiness.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is worth pursuing only if service is already a real part of the student’s story. It is competitive and values depth, consistency, and leadership more than a long but shallow activity list.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with deep, sustained service work — not just a few volunteer hours for a résumé. The strongest applicants usually show leadership, impact, and a clear public-service thread that fits Tulane’s civic mission.
Full TuitionApp Required
Dean’s Honor Scholarship
📅 Deadline: December 5
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full-tuition scholarship
✘ Not stackable
⚠  Extremely competitive Tulane merit scholarship that covers full tuition for four years (five in Architecture) but not room or board.
👥 ~Several dozen full-tuition scholarships per entering class shared between DHS and Paul Tulane-type awards. winners/yr

Stacking & Combining
Full-tuition institutional award that replaces lower Tulane merit. It may coordinate with outside scholarships, but it does not stack with other Tulane full-tuition scholarships.

📄
How to Apply
After applying for admission, submit the Dean’s Honor Scholarship application through the Green Wave Portal by Tulane’s full-tuition scholarship deadline, including the required creative project or portfolio and written commentary.
Selection criteria: Competitive review emphasizing academic excellence, originality, thoughtfulness, and quality of the DHS creative submission.
✎ Essays

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is a major full-tuition opportunity, but it is not a full ride. Families still need to plan for housing, meals, fees, travel, and personal costs unless other aid covers those pieces.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Very strong applicants with top academics, rigorous coursework, and a memorable creative submission. This is not just a high-GPA award — the project has to give Tulane a reason to choose the student from a very competitive pool.
Full TuitionApp Required
Legislative Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: Nomination and application deadlines are set annually by Tulane in coordination with Louisiana legislators.
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full-tuition scholarship
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based

Stacking & Combining
Full-tuition award that replaces other Tulane institutional merit and coordinates with need-based aid and outside scholarships within cost-of-attendance limits.

📄
How to Apply
Apply for undergraduate admission to Tulane, complete required financial aid forms, and pursue nomination through the Legislative Scholars process with a Louisiana state legislator according to Tulane’s current instructions.
Selection criteria: Selection based on legislative nomination and Tulane’s holistic academic and personal review.

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this can be powerful for the right Louisiana family, but it is restricted and process-heavy. Students need to know early that the legislator nomination piece is part of the path.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-achieving Louisiana students who are nominated through the state legislative process and admitted to Tulane. This is not a general scholarship application — access depends on the legislative nomination pathway.
Full TuitionApp Requiredgeographic
Louisiana Excellence Award
📅 Deadline: December 5
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full-tuition scholarship
✘ Not stackable
⚠  Full‑tuition Tulane scholarship reserved for top students who live in Louisiana and graduate from a Louisiana high school
Holistic / Status Based

Stacking & Combining
Full-tuition award for Louisiana residents that replaces lower partial Tulane merit. It may coordinate with outside scholarships or need-based aid but does not stack with other Tulane full-tuition awards.

📄
How to Apply
Complete the Common Application, required financial aid forms, and Tulane scholarship materials by the December scholarship deadline. Students must meet Tulane’s Louisiana residency and Louisiana high school graduation requirements.
Selection criteria: Holistic academic and leadership-based selection among eligible Louisiana applicants.
✎ Essays

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is one of Tulane’s most important affordability paths for Louisiana families. It can remove tuition from the bill, but parents still need to plan for housing, meals, fees, and other costs.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Top Louisiana students with excellent academics, leadership, and a strong Tulane application. The key restriction is residency: this is specifically for students who live in Louisiana and graduate from a Louisiana high school.
Full TuitionApp Required
Mayoral Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: Nomination and application timelines are established annually by Tulane and the City of New Orleans.
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full-tuition scholarship
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based

Stacking & Combining
Full-tuition award that replaces other Tulane institutional merit and may coordinate with need-based aid or outside funding within cost-of-attendance limits.

📄
How to Apply
Apply for undergraduate admission to Tulane, complete required financial aid forms, and follow the Mayoral Scholars nomination and selection process administered by Tulane in partnership with the City of New Orleans.
Selection criteria: Selection based on partnership nomination and Tulane’s holistic academic and personal review.

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is an important local pathway for New Orleans families, but it is restricted by school/location and nomination process. Families outside that pipeline should not count it as a general Tulane scholarship option.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: High-achieving graduates from selected New Orleans high schools who are nominated and selected through the Mayoral Scholars partnership. This is a local-access scholarship, not a national merit competition.
Full TuitionApp Required
Paul Tulane Award
📅 Deadline: December 5
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full-tuition scholarship
✘ Not stackable
⚠  Highly selective Tulane merit scholarship for outstanding freshmen that waives full tuition for four years but does not pay room or board
👥 ~Part of a pool of several dozen full-tuition awards shared with DHS. winners/yr

Stacking & Combining
Full-tuition institutional award that replaces other Tulane merit scholarships and cannot stack with other Tulane full-tuition awards.

📄
How to Apply
After applying for admission, submit the Paul Tulane Award application and required written responses through the Green Wave Portal by Tulane’s full-tuition scholarship deadline.
Selection criteria: Holistic review with strong emphasis on the Paul Tulane written responses alongside academic record, rigor, and overall application strength.
✎ Essays

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is a true high-reward, high-competition scholarship. It can take tuition off the table, but families should be realistic: room, board, fees, and travel can still leave a large remaining cost.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
A small number of students with exceptional academics, rigorous coursework, strong activities, and standout Paul Tulane essays. The writing matters here — this is not just an automatic reward for high stats.
Full RideAutomatic
Tulane/Stamps Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Semifinalist supplemental materials are generally due in early January; exact timelines are communicated through the Green Wave Portal.
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Ride
full cost of attendance plus enrichment funding
✘ Not stackable
👥 ~Very small cohort of new Stamps Scholars selected each year. winners/yr

Stacking & Combining
Full cost-of-attendance award that replaces other Tulane merit scholarships. Outside or need-based aid may be adjusted so the total package does not exceed cost of attendance.

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is Tulane’s rare true full-ride-style merit opportunity because it targets full cost of attendance and includes enrichment funding. Families should still understand that it is invitation-based and extremely selective.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
A tiny cohort of students with exceptional academics, leadership, service, and personal character who rise to the top of Tulane’s national applicant pool and perform well in the finalist process.
* 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/test ranges are estimates based on recipient profiles; Tulane does not publish strict cutoffs.

Note: Tulane is a Tulane Stamps Scholarship partner and a QuestBridge National College Match partner. QuestBridge Finalists matched with Tulane receive a full cost-of-attendance package — effectively a full-ride.

What makes these “flagship” scholarships different?
They are highly competitive, typically covering full tuition or full cost of attendance. Unlike automatic awards, they often require interviews, service résumés, or creative supplements, and very few are awarded each year.

How many students win?
Very few. About five Stamps Scholars are named annually, approximately 60 each for Dean’s Honor and Paul Tulane, and a small number for Community Service and Louisiana Excellence Awards.

Do I need to submit test scores?
No, Tulane is test-optional. However, most flagship recipients historically have top ACT/SAT scores, high GPAs, and rigorous coursework.

Do these replace other scholarships?
Yes. Flagship awards like Stamps, DHS, Paul Tulane, or a QuestBridge Match generally replace partial merit. They do not stack with other full-tuition awards.

Sources:
https://admission.tulane.edu/tuition-aid/merit-scholarships
https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types/scholarships
https://stampsscholars.org/our-schools/tulane-university/
https://www.questbridge.org/college-partners/tulane-university

💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships

These aren’t the headline “flagship” awards, but they can meaningfully reduce costs — especially when combined with admission-based merit or need-based aid.

Full RideApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Army ROTC Scholarship (+ Tulane R&B Support)
📅 Deadline: National Army ROTC deadlines vary by cycle.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Ride
Army ROTC tuition benefits plus Tulane room-and-board support
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad

Stacking & Combining
Army ROTC can cover tuition and required fees, while Tulane may provide additional room-and-board support for qualifying ROTC scholarship cadets. Other Tulane merit may be reduced or repackaged so total aid does not exceed cost of attendance.

📄
How to Apply
Apply for a national Army ROTC scholarship and designate Tulane. If selected and enrolled as a cadet in Tulane’s Army ROTC battalion, coordinate federal ROTC tuition, fee, book, and stipend benefits with Tulane’s Cooperative Room and Board Scholarship.
Selection criteria: Army ROTC board review of academics, leadership, physical fitness, interview performance, and officer potential.
🎤 Interview

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is one of Tulane’s biggest hidden affordability paths, but it should never be framed like ordinary merit aid. The value can be huge because Tulane adds room-and-board support on top of ROTC benefits, but the student has to want ROTC and understand the commissioning obligation.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students selected through the national Army ROTC process who enroll at Tulane, commit to the ROTC path, and maintain academic, physical, medical, and service requirements. This can become a true full-ride-style path, but only for students who want the military commitment.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Artistic / Portfolio Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Program and department deadlines vary.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad

Stacking & Combining
Talent-based awards may stack with general Tulane merit and need-based aid, subject to cost-of-attendance limits. Departments may set renewal expectations tied to continued participation, performance, or major status.

📄
How to Apply
Apply to the relevant artistic or portfolio-based program and submit required auditions, portfolios, or department scholarship materials by the program deadline. Requirements vary by school or department.
Selection criteria: Departmental faculty review of artistic merit, preparation, promise, and program fit.

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is easy for families to miss because it may live at the school or department level instead of the main scholarship chart. For creative students, the portfolio or audition can be a separate scholarship lever alongside grades and admission merit.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students in fields like architecture, studio art, theatre, music, performing arts, or other portfolio-based areas whose work stands out in faculty review. This is not a general academic award — the portfolio or audition has to carry real weight.
App Required
Cowen Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: Scholar society and Cowen Scholars deadlines vary by cycle.
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based

Stacking & Combining
Intended to supplement Tulane merit and need-based aid as part of a leadership cohort, subject to cost-of-attendance limits.

📄
How to Apply
Submit the Cowen Scholars application or participate through Tulane’s scholar societies selection process, with materials showing leadership, resilience, community engagement, and alignment with the program’s values.
Selection criteria: Holistic review focused on leadership, resilience, service, community engagement, and alignment with Cowen Scholars values.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is the kind of Tulane opportunity that families may miss if they only search for dollar amounts. The award value can vary, but the cohort, leadership programming, and recognition may matter for a student who wants to be deeply involved on campus.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with a strong leadership and service story who stand out for resilience, campus contribution, and community engagement. This is less about a simple GPA cutoff and more about whether the student fits the Cowen Scholars leadership profile.
Automatic
Louisiana Promise (No Loan Assistance Scholarship)
📅 Deadline: April 15
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based

Stacking & Combining
Coordinates with Tulane merit, need-based grants, work-study, family contribution, and outside aid. The promise is based on Tulane’s institutional calculation of financial need, not the family’s preferred price.

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is not a merit scholarship, but it can be one of Tulane’s most important affordability commitments for Louisiana families. Parents should understand the phrase “meets full need” means Tulane’s calculated need after reviewing FAFSA, CSS Profile, income, assets, and family contribution.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Louisiana students from families with adjusted gross income at or below the program threshold who graduate from a Louisiana high school, qualify for Tulane need-based scholarship, and complete the required aid forms on time.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Tulane University Marching Band Award
📅 Deadline: Band audition and participation deadlines vary.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad

Stacking & Combining
Band awards usually stack with Tulane academic merit and need-based aid, as long as the total aid package stays within cost-of-attendance limits.

📄
How to Apply
Audition for and be selected to join the Tulane University Marching Band, complete any required band scholarship or participation forms, and commit to the rehearsal and performance schedule.
Selection criteria: Selection based on musical ability, marching proficiency, commitment, and ensemble needs.

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: band money is usually not the headline award, but it is exactly the kind of stackable participation scholarship families miss. Students already planning to march should ask early about current stipend amounts and requirements.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with strong musical or marching ability who are selected for the Tulane University Marching Band and actively participate in rehearsals and performances. This is not limited to music majors.
Automatic
National Merit Scholarship (Tulane Sponsor Award)
📅 Deadline: National Merit first-choice college deadlines apply.
✓ Renews (2.7 GPA, 4 yrs)
$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based

Stacking & Combining
May stack with Tulane partial tuition merit and need-based aid, subject to cost-of-attendance limits. Larger full-tuition or full-ride Tulane awards may reduce, replace, or absorb the sponsor award.

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is useful but modest compared with Tulane’s sticker price. Families with a National Merit Finalist should still track it because it can stack with other partial merit, but it will not make Tulane affordable by itself.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: National Merit Finalists who are admitted to Tulane and officially name Tulane as their first-choice college with NMSC. This is a recognition-based award, not a separate Tulane competition.
Full RideApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Navy ROTC + Tulane Cooperative R&B Scholarship
📅 Deadline: National NROTC deadlines vary by cycle.
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Ride
Navy ROTC tuition benefits plus Tulane room-and-board support
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad

Stacking & Combining
NROTC can pay full tuition and certain fees, while Tulane’s cooperative room-and-board support may cover standard room and board for eligible midshipmen. Other Tulane merit may be reduced or adjusted, while outside scholarships may help with remaining costs.

📄
How to Apply
Apply for a national NROTC scholarship and affiliate with Tulane’s NROTC unit if selected. Navy or Marine Option midshipmen then coordinate federal tuition, fee, book, and stipend benefits with Tulane’s Cooperative Room and Board Scholarship.
Selection criteria: NROTC selection based on academics, leadership, physical aptitude, officer potential, and commitment to Navy or Marine Corps service.
🎤 Interview

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is a major affordability pathway for the right student, especially because Tulane layers room-and-board support onto ROTC benefits. But the military commitment is the starting point — not a side detail.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Navy or Marine Option midshipmen who earn national NROTC scholarships, enroll at Tulane, and maintain academic, physical, medical, and commissioning standards. This can function like a full-ride pathway, but only for students committed to Navy or Marine Corps service.
* 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: Award amounts and GPA/test ranges are based on Tulane’s published details where available. Where no exact figure was provided (e.g., Cowen Scholars), ranges or descriptions reflect available official information and may vary year to year. Always confirm with Tulane’s Financial Aid or program office.

  • Departmental scholarships (e.g., School of Science and Engineering endowed awards — amounts vary)
  • Athletic scholarships (NCAA Division I, awarded by Tulane Athletics)
  • Support programs like TU Thrive (resources for first-gen and limited-income students, not a direct scholarship)

Can ROTC benefits stack with Tulane scholarships?
Yes. ROTC tuition scholarships typically pair with Tulane’s separate room-and-board support for ROTC cadets/midshipmen. Always confirm the stacking details in your award terms.

How do I apply for ROTC funding?
Apply through the respective national ROTC scholarship portal (Navy/Marine or Army). If selected, you’ll affiliate with the Tulane unit and receive local guidance on benefits and housing/meal support.

Do artistic awards stack with admission-based merit?
Often, yes. Many talent awards can sit on top of partial admission-based merit; amounts and renewal rules vary by department, so read the offer letter carefully.

Is there a QuestBridge option at Tulane?
Yes. Tulane is a QuestBridge National College Match partner. Finalists who match to Tulane receive a full cost-of-attendance aid package (effectively a full-ride).


Sources:
https://admission.tulane.edu/tuition-aid/merit-scholarships
https://financialaid.tulane.edu/types/scholarships
https://firstyear.tulane.edu/programs/scholar-societies
https://nrotc.tulane.edu/scholarships
https://armyrotc.tulane.edu/scholarships

🎖️ Honors College

Tulane doesn’t have a standalone Honors College, but it offers the First-Year Honors Scholars Program through Newcomb-Tulane College. This program is invite-only at the time of admission for students showing high academic promise and curiosity. Admitted Honors Scholars can later opt into the Honors Scholar Society for a deeper cohort experience. There are no exclusive scholarships tied directly to Honors—most top scholarship winners (Stamps, DHS, etc.) are also in Honors, but the Honors designation itself does not come with extra funding.

What a Typical Tulane Honors Student Looks Like:
Often carries a rigorous high school curriculum, strong leadership or service record, and a GPA in the A– range or higher. Many successful candidates also submit top test scores (ACT 33+ / SAT 1500+), though Tulane remains test-optional.

Perks for Honors Scholars:

  • Two linked fall courses (4.5 credits) with other Honors Scholars
  • Small-group seminars and faculty mentoring
  • Priority access to campus lectures and cultural events
  • Connection to research and fellowship opportunities later in undergrad
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Cowen Scholars (Current Student Honors Leadership Scholarship)
📅 Deadline: April 1  ·  📢 Results: Decisions are announced by April 30.
✓ Renews (2.7 GPA, 3 yrs)
$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.6+ GPA👥 ~Typically 15–30 Cowen Scholarships per year, depending on funding. winners/yr🎓 Upperclassmen

Stacking & Combining
The Cowen Scholarship provides $5,000 toward the next academic year and may supplement existing Tulane merit, need-based aid, and outside scholarships, as long as the total aid package does not exceed cost of attendance.

📄
How to Apply
Current Newcomb-Tulane College undergraduates apply through Gibson Online during the spring application window. The application includes the Cowen Scholars form, a 250–500 word essay, and a current résumé. Students must be enrolled full time now and plan to remain full time the following academic year.
Selection criteria: Holistic review focused on academic performance, leadership, civic engagement, resilience, and alignment with the values of President Emeritus Scott Cowen.
✎ Essays

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: this is a strong current-student scholarship because it rewards what the student does after arriving at Tulane. Families should not count it in the first-year offer, but students who thrive academically and get involved can use it as a later-year affordability lever.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Current Tulane undergraduates with strong grades, real leadership, civic engagement, and a track record of resilience or campus contribution. This is not an incoming freshman award — it is for students who have already shown they can succeed and lead at Tulane.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Stellar Tulane Academic Recognition (STAR) Award
📅 Deadline: April 1  ·  📢 Results: Decisions are announced by April 30 for awards applied to the following academic year.
✓ Renews (2.7 GPA, 3 yrs)
$2,500–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Between 2 and 50 STAR Awards per year, depending on funding. winners/yr🎓 Upperclassmen

Stacking & Combining
STAR Awards are applied to the following academic year and can stack with Tulane merit, need-based aid, and outside scholarships, subject to cost-of-attendance limits and Tulane’s general scholarship renewal rules.

📄
How to Apply
Current Newcomb-Tulane College students apply through Gibson Online during the January 1–April 1 spring application period. The application requires the STAR Award form, a 250–500 word essay responding to the posted prompt, and a current résumé.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing academic performance at Tulane, essay quality, résumé strength, and overall fit for academic recognition.
✎ Essays

💡
Strategic Detail
CRP take: STAR is useful because it creates a second chance for scholarship money after freshman year begins. It will not solve Tulane’s full cost by itself, but it can reduce later-year costs for students who build a strong academic record on campus.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Current Tulane students who have performed very well academically after enrolling and can show that strength through the essay and résumé. This is a “prove it once you’re there” scholarship, not money families should expect in the original freshman offer.
* 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.

Is admission automatic?
No. Honors is by invitation at the time of admission; selected students are notified with their acceptance letter.

Does Honors add time to a degree?
No — the program is built into the standard first-year schedule. The two Honors-linked courses count toward the required credit load.

Are there exclusive scholarships for Honors?
No. The program itself does not confer extra scholarships; most scholarship recipients are also in Honors, but selection for Honors is about academics and engagement, not funding.

When do students apply or opt in?
After admission, Honors Scholars can opt into the Honors Scholar Society (application window April 1–15 for cohort placement and course preferences).


Sources:
https://firstyear.tulane.edu/programs/honors-scholars
https://firstyear.tulane.edu/programs/scholar-societies
https://admission.tulane.edu/tuition-aid/merit-scholarships

⭐ College Specialty

Tulane is more than just a well-regarded private university in New Orleans — it’s a nationally recognized R1 research institution and one of the few schools where community service is built into the core curriculum. Families looking for standout academic opportunities will find Tulane’s programs consistently ranked among the best in the country, especially in health sciences and public service.

Signature Strength: Tulane’s School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine is the oldest in the United States and regularly ranked among the top public health schools nationally. It is especially known for global health and disaster response research.

  • Law School: Tulane Law is consistently recognized as a top program in environmental law and maritime/admiralty law (U.S. News, 2024).
  • Biomedical Engineering: Tulane’s program is nationally noted for research opportunities connected to its School of Medicine and New Orleans’ health district.
  • Environmental Studies & Coastal Research: Leveraging Louisiana’s unique ecosystem, Tulane has national recognition for coastal restoration and environmental science research.
  • Business: The Freeman School of Business is widely respected in the South for entrepreneurship and energy-related programs.

Final Thoughts

For families considering Tulane, the sticker price can look intimidating — but the reality is much more nuanced. Between automatic merit, flagship full-tuition awards, hidden gems like ROTC and artistic scholarships, and programs like Louisiana Promise, there are real ways to bring the cost down. Tulane’s strengths in public health, research, and service also mean that students graduate with more than just a degree: they leave with a resume full of experiences that matter. If your student is a strong fit academically and personally, Tulane can be both an affordable and transformative choice.

Was this helpful? Share it with another parent who’s comparing college costs!

Back to top ↑


Scroll to Top