University of Louisville Scholarships (2025–2026)
← Back to the Public University Scholarships hub • See Kentucky state aid
- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit tiers and who typically qualifies
- Flagship (competitive) and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
- Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~80–82% (latest CDS)
- Middle 50% ACT: 22–28 (UofL Admissions)
- Middle 50% SAT: 1010–1230 (CDS, enrolled)
- Average HS GPA: 3.60 average • General admission minimum 2.5 • Honors minimum 3.5 (weighted)
Sources: University of Louisville Common Data Set 2024–25 and UofL Admissions. “Middle 50%” reflects where half of first-years who submitted scores fall.
Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
UofL at a Glance
Last verified: October 14, 2025
If you’re helping your student look at Louisville and feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. UofL has clear automatic merit tied to GPA/test thresholds, plus competitive awards that can cover full tuition or more.
This guide lays out real costs, who wins which awards, and how to combine Kentucky’s state programs with UofL scholarships for maximum savings—all in plain English.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes for general admission through 2026. Submitting scores can increase merit eligibility. UofL does not superscore.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT 22–28 (Admissions); SAT 1010–1230 (CDS, enrolled).
What’s the average net price? $18,239 (College Scorecard 2025).
Does this school use reciprocity or OOS waivers? Yes — Border Benefit and regional programs can reduce out-of-state costs to in-state levels if eligible.
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid/out-state-scholarships-aid
https://louisville.edu/financialaid/types-aid/scholarships
https://student.louisville.edu/honors
https://louisville.edu/financialaid/applying-scholarships
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid/kentucky-southern-indiana-scholarships-aid
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid/out-state-scholarships-aid/regional-scholars-program
https://www.uoflnews.com/post/uofltoday/uofl-adds-to-border-benefit-award/
https://www.leoweekly.com/news/uofl-expands-border-benefit-award-helping-students-in-nearby-states-reduce-tuition-costs-15811759/
https://louisville.edu/bursar/tuitionfee/copy_of_tuition
https://www.niche.com/colleges/university-of-louisville/admissions/
https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/University-of-Louisville-sat-scores-GPA
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/grawemeyer-scholarship/2001103/
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/governors-trustees-scholarship/2001098/
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/university-of-louisville/admissions
https://louisville.edu/financialaidportal/types-of-aid/scholarshipsships/freshman
💰 Cost of Attendance at University of Louisville (2025–2026)
The table below shows direct, billed costs only for full-time undergraduates living on campus in Louisville. These are the university’s official 2025–2026 estimates for tuition, fees, housing, and meals.
Source: UofL Bursar (Tuition) & 2025–26 Annual Undergraduate Tuition & Fees.
| In-State (KY & So. IN) | Out-of-State | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $13,390 | $29,736 |
| Housing & Meals | $12,542 | $12,542 |
| Total (Direct/Billed) | $25,932 | $42,278 |
Notes: The housing + meal figure uses UofL’s standard example ($7,740 room + $4,802 meal). Actual on-campus housing ranges roughly $4,578–$12,440 per year by hall or room type; meal plan selections also vary. Totals here include only items billed by the university (tuition, required fees, on-campus room & board). Other indirect costs (books, transportation, personal) are not shown.
📉 Average Net Price (after aid)
The latest federal data show an average net price ≈ $17.6 k – $18.8 k per year after scholarships and grants (varies by income). For a personalized estimate, use UofL’s Cost & Net Price Calculator.Learn how Net Price and the Student Aid Index (SAI) work in our guide: Net Price & SAI explained.
UofL participates in the Academic Common Market (ACM), allowing eligible students from SREB states to pay in-state tuition for approved programs not offered in their home state. The university also offers several cost-saving options:
- Border Benefit: Lowers tuition to the in-state rate for residents of approved counties in Illinois, Indiana*, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee (Nashville Metro), Virginia, and West Virginia who meet academic criteria.
- Indiana Tuition Reciprocity: Residents of Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Scott, and Washington counties in Southern Indiana are billed at the in-state rate.
Savings example: These programs can reduce tuition by $15,000–$20,000 per year compared with the standard out-of-state rate.
*Southern Indiana residents listed above are treated as in-state for tuition purposes. Housing and meal costs shown are averages; totals vary by hall and meal plan. Kentucky students should also review our Kentucky state aid page for details on KEES and other state programs that stack with UofL merit awards.
💬 FAQ: Understanding UofL Costs
Why are Southern Indiana students listed as in-state?
UofL has a formal Indiana Tuition Reciprocity agreement. Residents of Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Scott, and Washington counties pay the same tuition rate as Kentucky students.
Can other out-of-state students qualify for discounts?
Yes. Through the Academic Common Market or Border Benefit programs, students from nearby states may receive in-state tuition if they meet academic and residency requirements—saving roughly $15,000–$20,000 per year.
What’s included in the totals above?
Only billed expenses: tuition, mandatory fees, housing, and a standard meal plan. Books, transportation, and personal costs aren’t listed because they’re paid separately and vary by student.
How much do students actually pay after aid?
The average net price for undergraduates is around $17,600–$18,800 per year after scholarships and grants. Most Kentucky students qualify for the KEES Scholarship or need-based CAP Grant, which can stack with UofL merit aid.
https://louisville.edu/bursar/tuition
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid/2025-2026-annual-undergraduate-tuition-fees
https://louisville.edu/housing/living-campus/costs-living
https://louisville.edu/cardinalcard/meal-plan-101-1
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/university-of-louisville/tuition-and-costs
https://www.meetyourclass.com/louisville/cost
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid/out-state-scholarships-aid/border-benefit-award
https://www.uoflnews.com/post/uofltoday/uofl-adds-to-border-benefit-award/
https://www.leoweekly.com/news/uofl-expands-border-benefit-award-helping-students-in-nearby-states-reduce-tuition-costs-15811759/
https://louisville.edu/bursar/tuitionfee/cost-calculator/
https://louisville.edu/financialaid/estimate-my-costs-calculators
https://louisville.edu/financialaid/about-student-financial-aid-office/policies/overaward-stacking-awards
https://louisville.edu/financialaid/cost-attendance
https://louisville.edu/admissions/apply/residency-policy
Last verified: November 4, 2025
Automatic Merit Scholarships
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility (short) | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Border Benefit Award | $16,000/year base; +$1K–$4K with higher scores | OOS from eligible areas; 3.5 weighted GPA helps for higher tiers | No | Yes (up to 4 years) | Most get the $16K base; strong GPA + ACT 26–31 / SAT 1230–1380 unlocks bump | Dec 15 |
| Regional Scholars Program | $12,000–$16,000/year (tiered) | OOS in designated regions; higher tiers need GPA + test scores | No | Yes (up to 4 years) | Typical awards land around $12K–$14K; top tier ~27–29 ACT / 1260–1330 SAT + 3.5 weighted GPA | Dec 15 |
| Resident Admission-Based | $2,500–$8,000/year (varies by GPA and scores) | KY + eligible Southern IN; weighted GPA considered | No | Yes (maintain SAP) | Many 3.5+ weighted GPA residents receive something; higher scores trend higher | Dec 15 |
- Tiered amounts: Everyone in an eligible group gets the base award; stronger ACT/SAT scores can move you into a higher tier.
- GPA is weighted: A 3.5 weighted GPA is a common threshold for top tiers. Test-optional students can still receive the base award.
- Score ranges are guides: These aren’t strict cutoffs—just typical score bands for each tier.
- Renewal: Awards renew for up to 4 years with satisfactory academic progress and full-time enrollment.
- Stacking: Admission-based awards generally do not stack with each other (e.g., Border Benefit + Regional Scholars), but can combine with state/federal aid or outside scholarships.
Automatic Scholarships — FAQ
What’s the deadline to qualify for automatic merit?
Apply for admission by December 15 to be automatically considered for UofL’s merit scholarships. Late applicants may receive reduced consideration depending on available funds.
Do I need to submit test scores?
No, test scores are optional. However, submitting strong ACT or SAT scores can increase your award tier.
Are these scholarships renewable?
Yes. Automatic merit scholarships renew for up to four years if you maintain satisfactory academic progress and full-time enrollment.
Does UofL superscore ACT and SAT?
Yes. The University of Louisville superscores both exams, combining your best section scores across test dates.
Can these scholarships be stacked?
Typically, you can’t stack two admission-based UofL scholarships. However, they can be combined with KEES, Pell, SEOG, and private scholarships.
When are awards posted?
Most students see their merit award reflected within a few weeks of admission (after all test scores have been processed). Apply early for best consideration.
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid/out-state-scholarships-aid
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid/out-state-scholarships-aid/border-benefit-award
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid/out-state-scholarships-aid/regional-scholars-program
https://louisville.edu/financialaid/types-aid/scholarships
https://louisville.edu/admissions/apply/standardized-test-submission-options
https://louisville.edu/financialaidportal/types-of-aid/scholarships/overaward-and-stacking-pg-policies
🏆 Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships)
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility (short) | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grawemeyer Scholarship (Mentored) | $22,000/yr (KY) • up to ~$28,000/yr (OOS) | Typically 3.5+ WGPA and 24 ACT / 1160 SAT+; interest in research/creative activity; Honors application required. | Yes — essays, résumé, recs; Honors | Yes (4 years) | High-achieving students showing curiosity beyond class — research, creative work, notable projects. | Dec 1 |
| Martin Luther King (MLK) Scholars (Mentored) | Full in-state tuition + up to $10,000/yr program funds | Usually 3.5+ WGPA and 24 ACT / 1160 SAT+; leadership & community impact; KY & Southern IN focus; Honors required. | Yes — essays, résumé; interview possible; Honors | Yes (4 years) | Students with sustained service/advocacy, clear leadership, and reflective impact essays. | Dec 1 |
| McConnell Scholars Program | Guaranteed full in-state tuition + enrichment/travel opportunities | Kentucky HS seniors; min ~3.5 GPA & 26 ACT / 1230 SAT; civic/leadership interest; interviews. | Yes — multi-step process | Yes (4 years) | Top civic-minded KY students who stand out in leadership, writing, and interviews. | Dec 15 |
| Woodford R. Porter Scholarship | $2,000 up to Full Tuition (+ potential stipend) | Typically 3.5+ WGPA; significant service & leadership; separate app (essay + résumé). | Yes — essay & résumé | Yes | Students demonstrating sustained service and community leadership; awards scale by overall strength. | Dec 1 |
| Henry Vogt Scholars & Trustees’ Competitive | Vogt: $16,000 • Trustees’ Competitive: $1,000–$5,000 (enhances admission-based award) | High academics (often 3.5+ WGPA & 31 ACT / 1390 SAT+) with résumé/essay; early deadline. | Yes — competitive application | Yes | Top applicants who already qualify for strong admission-based merit and present standout involvement. | Dec 1 |
- MLK Scholars: ~10 awards per year
- Porter Program: supports 500+ Porter Scholars across cohorts (award levels vary)
- Mentored Scholarships (incl. Grawemeyer/MLK): require Honors + Dec 1 deadline
Volumes can fluctuate by funding and applicant pool.
❓ Flagship / Competitive Scholarship FAQs
What are the key deadlines?
Most competitive/mentored scholarships — including Grawemeyer, MLK Scholars, Porter, and Honors-linked awards — use a December 1 deadline. The McConnell Scholars Program uses a December 15 deadline.
How selective are these?
Very. MLK typically funds around 10 students per year, and mentored awards require Honors plus strong essays, leadership, and service. Porter awards are numerous but competitive at the top tiers.
Do I have to apply to Honors?
For mentored awards (e.g., Grawemeyer, MLK), yes — you must apply to the Honors Program by Dec 1 to be considered.
What materials should we prepare?
A focused résumé and compelling essays are key. Use our Brag Sheet Builder to organize activities and our Essay Toolkit to craft stronger responses and interview talking points.
National Merit or Stamps at UofL?
UofL does not list a Stamps partner program. If your student is a National Merit Finalist, review our National Merit guide for how to leverage Finalist status alongside UofL aid.
https://louisville.edu/cost-aid/undergraduate-scholarships-aid/out-state-scholarships-aid
https://louisville.edu/mentored-scholarships
https://student.louisville.edu/honors/student-experience/scholarships-funding/martin-luther-king-scholars-program
https://grawemeyer.org/scholars-program/
https://louisville.edu/access/centers-departments/center-belonging-access-engagement/success-initiatives/woodford-r-porter
https://student.louisville.edu/honors/student-experience/enrichment-opportunities/honors-scholars-program
https://www.collegedata.com/scholarship-finder/272187
https://www.collegeraptor.com/scholarships/University-of-Louisville-KY–157289/Trustees-Competitive-Scholarships–282581/
https://merit-scholarships.com/university-of-louisville/
https://student.louisville.edu/honors/student-experience/scholarships-funding
https://artsandsciences.louisville.edu/academics-programs/academic-departments/classical-and-modern-languages/student-experience-0
https://louisville.edu/financialaid/types-aid/scholarships
https://louisville.edu/financialaidportal/types-of-aid/scholarships/overaward-and-stacking-policies
https://student.louisville.edu/honors/student-experience/scholarships-ffunding
Honors College
The University of Louisville Honors College offers small, discussion-based courses, early registration, and priority access to research and competitive scholarships. For many families, the biggest value comes from the extra mentoring and the resume boost that comes with the Honors name.
- GPA: Around 3.8–4.0 unweighted in high school
- Test scores (if submitted): ACT 28–33 / SAT 1300–1450
- Several AP, IB, dual-credit, or honors courses on transcript
- Leadership in clubs, service, or extracurricular activities
- Strong writing skills and thoughtful essays
- Often involved in research, creative work, or community service
- Many are first-gen, underrepresented, or from rural schools — not just “perfect score” students
Honors perks your student can expect:
- Priority class registration each semester
- Smaller, discussion-based Honors courses
- Dedicated Honors advisors and mentoring
- Access to Honors-only scholarships, grants, and research funding
- Exclusive study abroad and travel opportunities
- First pick for certain competitive scholarships
- Honors housing options (Louisville Hall and other designated spaces)
- Networking events, guest lectures, and career prep workshops
| Scholarship / Benefit | Value | Eligibility (short) | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honors Scholars Program | Enhanced advising, research funding, priority for study abroad scholarships | Admitted to Honors College | No | Yes (stay active in Honors) | High-achieving first-year Honors students who engage in research or service learning | February 15 |
| Honors Travel/Research Grants | $500–$3,000 | Honors students with approved project or program | Yes — proposal required | No (one-time) | Students presenting at conferences, completing research, or studying abroad | Varies by cycle |
| Priority Consideration for Competitive Scholarships | $5,000–full tuition | High-achieving Honors students | Varies | Yes (if renewable) | Students already active in Honors with leadership or research experience | December 15 |
| University Honors Program — Etscorn Scholarships | $1,000–$2,500 | For active Honors students; recognizes engagement and academic distinction. | Yes (short Honors app) | Competitive renewal (reapply annually) | Students involved in Honors who maintain strong participation and grades. | Varies (check Honors site) |
Honors College — FAQs (University of Louisville)
Is Honors invitation-only?
Mostly, yes — but UofL also allows self-nominations. If your student wasn’t invited but has a strong GPA, test scores, or other academic strengths, they can apply for review through the self-nomination process.
Does being in Honors help with scholarships?
Absolutely. Many competitive awards either require or strongly prefer Honors students. Honors students also have priority access to travel and research grants that regular admits can’t access.
Will the classes be harder?
Honors courses are smaller and emphasize critical thinking and discussion rather than additional homework. They’re designed for enrichment, not extra workload.
Can students join Honors later?
Yes. Current students with a strong UofL GPA can apply to join Honors after their first year through the continuing student process.
What are the housing options for Honors students?
Honors housing is available in Louisville Hall and other designated residence halls, creating a close-knit community for academically driven students.
Is Honors worth it?
Yes. Students gain priority registration, personal advising, and meaningful research and networking opportunities — all of which stand out for graduate or professional school applications.
https://student.louisville.edu/honors/how-apply/high-school-students
https://student.louisville.edu/honors/how-apply
https://student.louisville.edu/honors
https://student.louisville.edu/honors/student-experience/enrichment-opportunities/honors-scholars-program
https://student.louisville.edu/honors/student-experience/scholarships-funding/mass-scholarship
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpJGKKHD9aM
https://louisville.edu/housing/apply/frequently-asked-questions
https://catalog.louisville.edu/undergraduate/courses/hon/
https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/University-of-Louisville-sat-scores-GPA
-GPA
🎯 College Specialty
Every college has areas where it really shines. At the University of Louisville, these aren’t just talking points — they’re programs with funding, faculty, and a track record of strong outcomes. If your student’s interests line up here, it can open doors to scholarships, internships, and jobs after graduation.
- Engineering (Speed School): Home to a nationally ranked co-op program (U.S. News “Best Co-Op/Internship Programs”) that builds a year of paid work experience directly into the degree.
- Sports Administration: Consistently ranked Top 10 in the U.S. by SportBusiness International, with internship pipelines to pro sports teams and major events.
- Business & Entrepreneurship: Featured in Princeton Review’s Top 25 Undergraduate Entrepreneurship Programs, offering hands-on ventures and ties to Louisville’s business scene.
- Health Sciences & Nursing: Recognized nationally for nursing and public health research; strong clinical partnerships with UofL Health and funded NIH research projects.
- Music & Performing Arts: Jazz Studies program has earned DownBeat Magazine student awards; strong ties to the Louisville Orchestra with opportunities for non-majors.
- Public Health & Urban Policy: Noted for national research in community health, environmental health, and social justice, with paid undergraduate research roles.
- Research Opportunities: Access to the internationally recognized Grawemeyer Awards network plus competitive undergraduate research grants across disciplines.