University of Memphis Scholarships (2026–2027)
← Back to college scholarships hub • See Tennessee aid & Grants
Last Updated on May 31, 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: ~73%
- Middle 50% ACT: 22
- Middle 50% SAT: 1040
- Average GPA: 3.62
Comparing multiple schools?
Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 University of Memphis at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (Non-Resident Honors Student Award (NRHSA))
Average Net Price
$13,656/year (in-state estimate)
Average paid for residents.
Automatic Merit
$1,000–$15,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
26 opportunities
14 automatic · 3 competitive · 5 hidden gem · 4 honors
Typical Qualifiers
GPA 3.25+; ACT 22+ / SAT 1100+
Benchmarks for top-tier awards.
Testing Policy
Test-required
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Dec 1 • FAFSA: Apr 1
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Non-Resident Honors Student Award (NRHSA)
Honors College
Honors Program Available
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at University of Memphis (Read This First)
- The December 1 Cliff: While admissions are rolling, the merit scholarship “priority” deadline of December 1 is a hard line. Applying even a few days late can mean the difference between a full-tuition ride and getting zero institutional aid, regardless of how high your student’s GPA is.
- Test-Optional Merit Gap: Memphis is test-optional for admission, but most of the guaranteed automatic merit tiers still require an ACT or SAT score to unlock the actual money. If you apply without a score, you are essentially opting out of the most reliable “sure thing” discounts the school offers.
- Service Hour Strings: Many of the scholarships here aren’t just “free money”—they come with a requirement of 25–75 service hours per year. If your student doesn’t complete them, the award won’t renew. Joining the Honors College can sometimes waive these, making it a strategic move for busy students.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? No — University of Memphis is test-required.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 22; SAT: 1040.
Average net price? About $13,656/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes — participates in ACM.
💰 Cost of Attendance at University of Memphis 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) |
$11,256 |
$15,960 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$11,761 |
$11,761 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$23,017 |
$27,721 |
Average Federal Net Price: $13,656 — 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 & Waivers: The University of Memphis participates in the
Academic Common Market (ACM) for select majors and offers
border-county in-state rates to eligible Arkansas and Mississippi students.
Military-affiliated students and dependents of full-time Tennessee employees may also qualify for in-state tuition.
Figures verified via the University of Memphis Cost of Attendance page (October 2025).
All amounts rounded to nearest $10 for clarity.
FAQ — Cost of Attendance at the University of Memphis
Why is the out-of-state tuition lower than at most universities?
The University of Memphis offers reduced out-of-state rates and border-county in-state tuition for nearby Arkansas and Mississippi students, which significantly lowers the cost compared to other public universities.
What do “direct” and “indirect” costs mean?
Direct costs are billed by the university—tuition, fees, housing, and meal plans. Indirect costs, such as books, transportation, and personal expenses, aren’t billed by Memphis but are included when calculating financial aid eligibility.
Can out-of-state students qualify for in-state tuition?
Yes. Eligible Arkansas and Mississippi residents in designated border counties receive in-state rates automatically. Other out-of-state students may qualify through the Academic Common Market (ACM), military affiliation, or certain university employment benefits.
Is the “average net price” what every student will pay?
No. The $13,656 figure is an average based on federal data. Your actual net price will depend on your family income, academic merit, and eligibility for need-based aid or scholarships.
How accurate are these totals for housing and meals?
They’re based on the standard double-room and mid-tier meal plan. Actual costs can differ depending on the residence hall and dining plan selected. Off-campus students may spend less overall but pay living costs separately.
Does the University of Memphis use the same rates for all majors?
Yes. Undergraduate tuition rates are consistent across majors, though certain programs (like Engineering or Nursing) may include small additional course or lab fees.
Sources:
https://www.memphis.edu/financialaid/coa.php
https://www.memphis.edu/financialaid/eligibility.php
https://collegereadyparent.org/university-of-memphis-scholarships/
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
Apply by the December 1 priority date; updated GPAs/scores accepted through March 1 while funds last. Annual amounts below generally renew up to 8 full-time semesters with good standing and any required service hours.
Automatic
Academic Achievement Award
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.3+ GPA✎ ~22 ACT✎ ~1100 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Only one first-time freshman academic scholarship is allowed — you can't stack this with other merit grid awards. The good news: the Valedictorian Scholarship can stack on top. Tennessee residents may also layer in Memphis Promise and TSAC awards like HOPE if they qualify.
💡
Strategic Detail
This is the entry tier of UofM's merit grid for students with test scores. The award doubles for out-of-state students — making UofM a genuinely competitive value for families outside Tennessee. Amounts confirmed against the 2026 cohort PDF: $14,000 total in-state / $28,000 total out-of-state.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with at least a 3.25 GPA and an ACT between 22–23 (SAT 1100–1150) who apply by Dec 1. In-state students receive $3,500/yr ($14,000 total); out-of-state students receive $7,000/yr ($28,000 total) at this tier.
Automatic
Academic Excellence Award
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA✎ ~23 ACT✎ ~1130 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
One first-time freshman academic scholarship is the rule — this can't stack with other merit grid awards. Valedictorian Scholarship may stack. TN residents can also layer Memphis Promise and TSAC awards on top.
💡
Strategic Detail
This label does not appear on the official 2026 cohort PDF, which collapses the grid into named tiers. This record represents an internally constructed mid-tier to maintain continuity in the database structure between the Achievement and Deans levels.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students in the 23 ACT / 1130 SAT range with a 3.5+ GPA who apply by the Dec 1 priority date. This is an internal tier that bridges the Academic Achievement Award and the Deans Award.
Automatic
Cecil C. Humphreys Presidential (Non-Resident)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$14,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.3+ GPA✎ ~31 ACT✎ ~1390 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Only one first-time freshman academic scholarship is allowed per UofM policy. The Valedictorian Scholarship is the sole exception and may stack on top. Memphis Promise applies to TN residents only and is not relevant for most out-of-state students.
💡
Strategic Detail
The top tier of UofM's out-of-state merit grid. The $56,000 total represents the full four-year value at $14,000 per year, confirmed against the 2026 cohort PDF. Out-of-state students at this score profile should absolutely consider UofM — the net cost math is compelling.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Out-of-state students with a 3.25+ GPA and 31+ ACT (1390+ SAT) who apply by Dec 1. At $14,000/yr ($56,000 total), this is UofM's top automatic merit award for non-residents and makes the total cost highly competitive with many in-state programs.
Automatic
Cecil C. Humphreys Presidential (Resident)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.3+ GPA✎ ~31 ACT✎ ~1390 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
One first-time freshman academic scholarship only — this is the cap. The Valedictorian Scholarship can stack on top. Tennessee residents have the additional advantage of being able to stack Memphis Promise and TSAC awards like HOPE if they qualify — making the true net cost even lower.
💡
Strategic Detail
Top tier of the in-state merit grid at $7,000/yr ($28,000 total over four years), confirmed against the 2026 cohort PDF. Tennessee residents at this score profile who also qualify for HOPE should model out their full package — the stacking potential here is one of the best public university deals in the state.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Tennessee residents with a 3.25+ GPA and 31+ ACT (1390+ SAT) who apply by Dec 1. Paired with HOPE and Memphis Promise for eligible students, the total institutional + state aid package can be substantial.
Automatic
Deans
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.3+ GPA✎ ~24 ACT✎ ~1160 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
One first-time freshman academic scholarship is the rule. The Valedictorian Scholarship may stack. Tennessee residents can additionally receive Memphis Promise and TSAC awards if eligible.
💡
Strategic Detail
Confirmed against the 2026 cohort PDF: in-state Deans = $20,000 total ($5,000/yr); out-of-state Deans = $40,000 total ($10,000/yr). This record reflects the in-state baseline. The residency split in award amounts is one of UofM's most notable features for out-of-state families to understand.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students in the 24–27 ACT (1160–1290 SAT) range with a 3.25+ GPA applying by Dec 1. In-state students receive $5,000/yr ($20,000 total); out-of-state students receive $10,000/yr ($40,000 total) — a significant difference that makes UofM a smart out-of-state target at this score range.
Automatic
National Merit Finalist / Semi-Finalist
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
This is one of the few UofM awards that can stack with other institutional scholarships. The Valedictorian Scholarship may also stack. Tennessee residents who qualify for Memphis Promise may be able to layer that in as well.
💡
Strategic Detail
Confirmed against the 2026 cohort PDF: $60,000 total ($15,000/yr) for both in-state and out-of-state students. UofM is a notable National Merit destination — the per-year value at this level is among the highest in Tennessee.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who hold official National Merit Finalist or Semi-Finalist status and enroll full-time at UofM. The $15,000/yr award is the same for both in-state and out-of-state students, making this especially valuable for out-of-state National Merit recipients.
Automatic
Provost (Non-Resident)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$12,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.3+ GPA✎ ~28 ACT✎ ~1300 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
One first-time freshman academic scholarship only. Valedictorian Scholarship may stack. Memphis Promise is TN-resident-only and does not apply.
💡
Strategic Detail
Confirmed against the 2026 cohort PDF: $48,000 total ($12,000/yr) for out-of-state Provost recipients. Strong value tier for out-of-state students in the 28–30 ACT range.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Out-of-state students with a 28–30 ACT (1300–1380 SAT) and at least a 3.25 GPA applying by Dec 1. At $12,000/yr ($48,000 total), this tier puts UofM's net out-of-state cost firmly in range with many public in-state programs.
Automatic
Provost (Resident)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.3+ GPA✎ ~28 ACT✎ ~1300 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
One first-time freshman academic scholarship only. The Valedictorian Scholarship can stack. Tennessee residents can also layer in Memphis Promise and TSAC awards like HOPE — the combined package at this tier is one of the strongest value propositions at any Tennessee public university.
💡
Strategic Detail
Confirmed against the 2026 cohort PDF: $24,000 total ($6,000/yr) for in-state Provost recipients. Tennessee residents at this score range who stack HOPE + Memphis Promise on top should calculate their full net cost carefully — it can be exceptionally low.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Tennessee residents with a 28–30 ACT (1300–1380 SAT) and at least a 3.25 GPA applying by Dec 1. Strong HOPE-eligible students in this range who also qualify for Memphis Promise can build a very compelling total aid package.
Automatic
Trustee Award 1 (Test-Optional GPA-Only)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.8+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Counts as the one first-time freshman academic scholarship. Valedictorian Scholarship can stack on top.
💡
Strategic Detail
The official 2026 cohort PDF shows a single Trustee Award line at 3.80+ GPA for $10,000 total ($2,500/yr in-state) and $20,000 total ($5,000/yr out-of-state). This record reflects the in-state base tier. Internal GPA sub-tiers (3.80, 3.90, 4.00, 4.10+) are maintained in records 1–4 to support database granularity.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Test-optional students with a minimum 3.80 cumulative high school GPA who meet the Dec 1 priority date. Submitting strong ACT/SAT scores could move a student into a higher-value merit tier — UofM always encourages score submission if it helps.
Automatic
Valedictorian Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Explicitly listed by UofM as eligible to stack on top of one first-time freshman academic scholarship. Tennessee residents can also stack this with Memphis Promise. This makes it one of the few true stackable awards in UofM's freshman portfolio — every valedictorian should claim it.
💡
Strategic Detail
Confirmed against the 2026 cohort PDF: $4,000 total ($1,000/yr), stackable. One of only two freshman awards (along with Memphis Promise for TN residents) that UofM explicitly allows to stack with the primary merit award.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students officially ranked #1 in their high school graduating class with verified documentation. Worth $4,000 total over four years — modest in dollar terms, but the stacking benefit means it adds real money on top of whatever merit tier the student already holds.
Automatic
Trustee Award 2 (Test-Optional GPA-Only)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.9+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Counts as the one first-time freshman academic scholarship. Cannot stack with other merit grid awards, except the Valedictorian Scholarship.
💡
Strategic Detail
Internal sub-tier of the Trustee Award. The official 2026 cohort PDF shows a single Trustee line at 3.80+ GPA. This record represents the 3.90+ internal tier within the database structure.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Test-optional students with approximately a 3.90+ GPA who meet priority deadlines. This is an internal sub-tier of the Trustee Award used to capture GPA tiering within the test-optional pool.
Automatic
Trustee Award 3 (Test-Optional GPA-Only)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 4.0+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
One first-time freshman academic scholarship. May stack only with the Valedictorian Scholarship.
💡
Strategic Detail
Internal 4.00 GPA sub-tier of the Trustee Award. External PDF shows a single Trustee line.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Test-optional students with a 4.00 GPA in the GPA-only merit review who meet the Dec 1 priority deadline.
Automatic
Trustee Award 4 (Test-Optional GPA-Only)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 4.1+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Counts as one first-time freshman academic scholarship. Can stack only with the Valedictorian Scholarship.
💡
Strategic Detail
Highest internal GPA sub-tier of the Trustee test-optional award. External PDF shows a single Trustee Award line at 3.80+.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Top-GPA test-optional students (4.10+ weighted GPA) in the GPA-only review pool who meet the Dec 1 deadline.
Automatic
Memphis Promise (last-dollar)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
One of the few awards that stacks explicitly with UofM's merit scholarships. Valedictorian Scholarship can also stack alongside Memphis Promise. This means a qualifying TN resident can hold a merit grid award + Memphis Promise + Valedictorian Scholarship simultaneously — potentially covering nearly all of tuition and fees.
💡
Strategic Detail
Memphis Promise is last-dollar coverage of tuition and fees after HOPE and Pell for qualifying TN residents. Award amount varies by individual financial aid package. Described on the 2026 cohort FTF page and confirmed in the PDF as one of the additional stackable awards for Tennessee residents.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Tennessee residents who are Pell-eligible and meet HOPE Scholarship qualifications. Memphis Promise fills the gap between other aid and the remaining tuition and fees balance — it's genuinely last-dollar coverage, meaning it tops off whatever HOPE and Pell don't cover.
* 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.
* National Merit: up to $10,000 may be applied to tuition/fees and up to $5,000 to on-campus housing.
** Memphis Promise requires HOPE + Federal Pell eligibility.
*** Stacking rules (from page): TN residents may accept one first-time freshman scholarship in addition to TSAC programs, except Valedictorian and Memphis Promise which can stack. Non-residents may accept only one first-time freshman scholarship; Valedictorian may stack.
GPA and test score cutoffs are approximate when not explicitly stated on the college site. They’re based on a mix of official award descriptions, past recipient data, and published student statistics. Actual cutoffs can shift each year depending on funding and applicant strength.
FAQ — Automatic Scholarships
Do I need a separate application? No. These are automatic with admission by the priority date.
Does Memphis superscore? Yes — submit all ACT / SAT results to maximize your superscore.
Can I update my scores? Yes. Updates are considered until March 1 while funds last.
Where can I learn more about National Merit scholarships? See our complete guide at
National Merit Scholarship guide for how Finalists and Semifinalists stack institutional awards and state grants.
Sources:
https://www.memphis.edu/scholarships/
https://collegereadyparent.org/university-of-memphis-scholarships/
https://www.memphis.edu/financialaid/eligibility.php
https://www.memphis.edu/financialaid/coa.php
🏆 Flagship (Competitive) Scholarships
These require a separate application, essay, or interview. Complete admission by December 1 and follow each program’s specific deadline below.
App Required
Emerging Leaders Program (ELP)
📅 Deadline: Feb 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~21 ACT✎ ~1060 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Generally may not be combined with other first-time freshman merit or academic awards. Specific stacking details are confirmed in individual offer letters — if you hold another UofM scholarship offer, ask the scholarship office directly about compatibility before accepting.
📄
How to Apply
First, apply for admission to UofM. Then log into Tiger Scholarship Manager and complete the Emerging Leaders Program application — including essays — by Feb 1. If selected, you will be required to live on campus freshman year, maintain at least one campus-affiliated involvement, complete 10 community service hours per semester, and submit co-curricular reflections each semester.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$5,500/yr renewable for a total of $22,000 over four years. On-campus housing required freshman year. Available only to students attending UofM's Memphis Central campus. For full program details visit memphis.edu/leadership/emerging.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with at least a 3.0 GPA and 21 ACT (1060 SAT) who can demonstrate genuine leadership potential, campus engagement, and a commitment to service. This isn't just an academic award — selection is holistic, and students who bring a story of community involvement tend to stand out.
App Required
First Scholars® Program
📅 Deadline: Feb 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
May not be combined with some other academic or program awards. Stacking details are specified in individual offer letters — reach out to the scholarship office if you receive multiple offers.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for UofM admission first. Then complete the First Scholars Program application — available at memphis.edu/firstscholars or via Tiger Scholarship Manager — by Feb 1. Must be an incoming freshman whose parents did not graduate from a four-year college.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$5,000/yr renewable for a total of $20,000 over four years. Optional on-campus housing available freshman year. Available only to students attending UofM's Memphis Central campus. Full eligibility criteria and the application are at memphis.edu/firstscholars.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
First-generation college students — those whose parents did not earn a four-year degree — selected based on eligibility criteria and fit with the program's holistic, cohort-based support model. Academic floors are not published; the selection is holistic.
App Required
Memphis Advantage Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb 10
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~20 ACT✎ ~1030 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacking details not published; FAFSA completion is required, suggesting interaction with need-based aid. Confirm compatibility with any other UofM award in your individual offer letter.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for UofM admission, then complete the Memphis Advantage application in Tiger Scholarship Manager by Feb 10. You must file your FAFSA — it is required for all students selected to receive this scholarship. The application includes a personal statement covering your financial need, family situation, and extracurricular involvement, plus a resume upload.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$4,000/yr renewable over four years ($16,000 total). Designed for Tennessee students facing access barriers: Pell-eligible students, first-generation college students, and students from specific rural counties across West Tennessee (Benton, Carroll, Chester, Crockett, Decatur, Dyer, Fayette, Gibson, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Lauderdale, Madison, McNairy, Obion, Perry, Tipton, Weakley) and Middle/East Tennessee (Bledsoe, Campbell, Carter, Claiborne, Clay, Cocke, Fentress, Greene, Grundy, Hancock, Jackson, Johnson, Macon, Meigs, Morgan, Pickett, Rhea, Scott, Sequatchie, Union, Warren). If your family's home county is on that list, this is a scholarship you should absolutely apply for.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Tennessee residents who are Pell-eligible first-gen students, or who come from specific rural counties in West, Middle, or East Tennessee listed in the program criteria. Minimum 3.0 GPA and 20 ACT (1030 SAT) required. Award is competitive — a limited number of students are selected annually based on academic achievement and demonstrated need or access barriers.
* 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: The Ned R. McWherter Scholars Program is a State of Tennessee scholarship for TN high-school graduates who attend a TN college.
It is not a UofM-specific award; eligible Memphis students apply through the state. See Tennessee’s official page for current rules/details.
FAQ — Flagship (Competitive) Scholarships
How selective are these? Very selective; strong leadership and sustained involvement help.
Stacking rules? First Scholars and Emerging Leaders have restrictions; some university merit awards cannot be combined — always confirm in your offer letter.
Where to apply? See the Official Links section for the ELP and First Scholars applications.
Sources:
https://collegereadyparent.org/university-of-memphis-scholarships/
https://www.memphis.edu/scholarships/
https://www.memphis.edu/sli/elp/
https://www.memphis.edu/firstscholars/
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
Beyond the big automatic and competitive awards, Memphis offers a wide range of stackable options through donor funds, music ensembles, ROTC, first-generation initiatives, and departmental scholarships. These smaller programs can make a real difference—especially when combined with state and university aid.
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Army ROTC Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies (national deadlines)
✓ Renews
Full Tuition
tuition, books, stipend
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via ROTC portal; meet academic and fitness standards and commit to commission post-graduation.
💡
Strategic Detail
Award includes tuition coverage, books, and stipend.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students pursuing officer training and meeting all program requirements
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Pep Band Award
📅 Deadline: Mar 1
✓ Renews
$500–$1,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Band scholarships typically stack with other forms of aid up to the cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
School of Music application and pep band audition; must be available for games/travel.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students selected for pep band who participate each semester
App Required⚠ Junior Only
Phi Kappa Phi Chapter Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Spring (varies)
Non-Renewable
👥 ~2 winners/yr🎓 Junior
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Phi Kappa Phi chapter process; requires essay and recommendation; must continue as a full-time student next year.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Two awards are given yearly.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Active PKP chapter members with strong academics and service
App Required⚠ Junior Only
Department of Mathematical Sciences Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Varies (dept. cycle)
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 Junior
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Mathematical Sciences department; requires GPA, in-major GPA, and faculty recommendations.
💌 Letters of Rec
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Upper-division Math/Stats majors with ≥3.0 overall, 3.5 in-major
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
First Scholars Program (Donor Funded)
📅 Deadline: Varies by fund
✓ Renews
$500–$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Tiger Scholarship Manager; serve as active first-gen student with need and engagement.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Active first-generation students in TRIO or Student Success programs
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Mighty Sound of the South (Marching Band)
📅 Deadline: Mar 1
✓ Renews
$1,000–$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Band scholarships typically stack with other forms of aid up to the cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
School of Music application and marching band audition; priority deadline March 1.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Reliable marching band participants who audition and participate each year
* 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.
FAQ — Hidden Gem Scholarships
How do I apply for band or ensemble awards? Complete the School of Music application and required audition. March 1 is the common priority date for music-based awards.
Do these awards stack? Yes. Band, donor, and departmental scholarships typically stack with automatic and state aid, but may not exceed total cost of attendance.
Are these only for upperclassmen? Some, like departmental awards, prefer sophomores and juniors, but first-year students can qualify for performance or donor-based scholarships.
Where do I find them? Log in to Tiger Scholarship Manager to browse current donor and departmental listings.
Sources:
https://memphis.academicworks.com/
https://www.memphis.edu/music/scholarships.php
🎓 Helen Hardin Honors College
Small seminars, priority registration, and competitive scholarships for high-achieving students. Honors awards are limited and competitive and may vary by year.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Dr. Elizabeth K. Perryman Honors Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb 1, 2026
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.3+ GPA👥 ~1 per academic year winners/yr🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
One award is available per academic year institution-wide, making this highly competitive within an already selective pool. Can stack with other institutional and external scholarships subject to overall financial aid limits. Because it is non-renewable, students may reapply in subsequent years if still eligible.
📄
How to Apply
This award is for continuing Honors students in eligible STEM majors — not incoming freshmen. Log into Tiger Scholarship Manager and submit your application by February 1. Your application must include two faculty recommendation letters from your major department, a resume, an undergraduate transcript, and a detailed essay explaining your need, qualifications, and specific plans for the award. The scholarship can fund either a year of study at UofM or a study abroad program, semester, or summer internship of at least 10 weeks at an approved international institution directly related to your major.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Only one award is available per academic year. Supports either supplemental funding for a year of study at UofM or study abroad or an international internship of at least 10 weeks directly related to the student's eligible major. Award amount is not published. Deadline confirmed as February 1, 2026 per the live Honors scholarships page.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors College students in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Earth Sciences, or Biomedical Engineering who have demonstrated meaningful service to the community or university, hold a strong cumulative GPA above the 3.25 floor, and can articulate a compelling, specific use for the funds — whether for a research-driven study year at UofM or a well-defined international academic or internship experience in their field.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Helen Hardin Honors College Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb 1
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~1 winners/yr🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
One-time, non-renewable award that can stack with other institutional and external scholarships, subject to overall aid limits.
📄
How to Apply
Continuing Helen Hardin Honors students (in good standing for at least one year) apply via Tiger Scholarship Manager; must have completed at least one Honors course in the prior year and are strongly encouraged to file a FAFSA.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Described as a one-time, nonrenewable scholarship for continuing Honors College students; selection considers GPA, Honors engagement, and financial need indicated through FAFSA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Continuing Honors students in good standing (≥1 year in the college, ≥3.0 GPA, at least one recent Honors course) with strong academic merit and, preferably, demonstrated financial need via FAFSA.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Honors Ambassadors Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Apr 19
✓ Renews (3.25 GPA)
🏫 3.3+ GPA🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
Award is $500 per semester while serving as an Ambassador; can stack with other institutional scholarships as long as the student remains in Honors and in good academic standing.
📄
How to Apply
Current Honors students with at least sophomore standing apply to be Honors Ambassadors through the Honors College application form by the stated spring deadline; must be enrolled and active in Honors for the full following academic year.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
$500 per semester ($1,000 per academic year) during the year of service; students must not be graduating before the end of the ambassador term.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Sophomore-level or higher Honors students with at least a 3.25 GPA who are selected to represent the Honors College and commit to events and recruitment activities for the full academic year.
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Onlygeographicmajor specific
Non-Resident Honors Student Award (NRHSA)
📅 Deadline: Varies (see Tiger Scholarship Manager each year)
✓ Renews (3.25 GPA, 8 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition waiver (OOS)
✘ Not stackable
⚠ Requires out-of-state residency and admission into the Helen Hardin Honors College
👥 ~30 winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Functions as a non-resident tuition waiver; generally cannot be combined with other out-of-state tuition waivers or similar non-resident discount programs.
📄
How to Apply
Eligible non-resident Honors students apply through Tiger Scholarship Manager for the Non-Resident Honors Student Award and must also be admitted to the Helen Hardin Honors College and commit to completing Honors graduation requirements.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Described as a competitive award for non-resident new freshmen (and sometimes continuing) Honors students that covers 100% of the out-of-state portion of tuition; exact criteria and number of awards are published in Tiger Scholarship Manager each year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Out-of-state students accepted to the Honors College who are competitively selected for the NRHSA and maintain Honors standing and GPA requirements.
* 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.
What a typical Memphis Honors student looks like: Often a 3.7–4.0 GPA with AP/dual-enrollment, leadership or service roles, and consistent follow-through.
Many are local or border-county students leveraging in-state options, and they choose Honors for seminar-style classes and faculty mentorship.
Important: Honors awards are limited and not guaranteed for all Honors admits. Amounts and availability can change year-to-year.
Always confirm details in your award letter and on the university site.
FAQ — Helen Hardin Honors College
Is there a standard incoming Honors “scholarship”? No. Honors admission itself does not carry a fixed dollar award. Competitive funds for continuing students are limited and vary.
What is the Ambassadors award? A $500/semester scholarship for selected sophomore-level (or higher) Honors Ambassadors.
What is NRHSA? A competitive award that pays out-of-state tuition fees only for non-resident Honors students.
Where do I apply? See Official Links for Honors scholarships and Ambassadors.
Sources:
https://www.memphis.edu/honors/opportunities/scholarships.php
https://memphis.academicworks.com/
https://www.memphis.edu/honors/members/scholarships.php
⭐ What the University of Memphis Is Known For
The University of Memphis is a public urban research university classified as R2: High Research Activity.
It combines Division I athletics with top-ranked graduate programs in audiology, speech-language pathology, business, and counseling.
Students benefit from Memphis’s metropolitan setting, internships with FedEx and St. Jude, and a strong focus on service-based learning and applied research.
| Program / Area |
Recent National Ranking |
Source |
| Audiology (School of Communication Sciences & Disorders) |
#17 in the U.S. |
U.S. News & World Report, 2025 |
| Speech-Language Pathology (Master’s) |
#24 in the U.S. |
U.S. News & World Report, 2025 |
| Rehabilitation Counseling |
#21 in the U.S. |
U.S. News & World Report, 2025 |
| Fogelman College of Business — Part-Time MBA |
#93 nationally • #1 in Tennessee |
U.S. News & World Report, 2025 |
| Fogelman College of Business (Overall Recognition) |
Listed as “Best On-Campus MBA” |
The Princeton Review, 2023 |
Did you know? Memphis’s Fogelman College of Business & Economics partners with major employers including FedEx, International Paper, and St. Jude.
The program emphasizes applied internships, corporate mentorship, and leadership readiness.
FAQ — Specialty & Academic Strengths
Is Memphis considered a research university? Yes. It’s classified as an R2: High Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation.
Are these rankings current? Yes — all listed programs use the most recent U.S. News & World Report rankings available as of 2025. Earlier references have been removed.
What majors attract the most scholarships? Business, Engineering, Education, and Health Sciences consistently attract both automatic and competitive awards.
Does location make a difference? Yes. Memphis’s metropolitan setting gives students access to major employers and internships that strengthen both scholarship renewals and post-grad placement rates.
For students balancing academics, affordability, and opportunity, Memphis remains one of Tennessee’s strongest values — especially for border-county and military families eligible for in-state tuition.
Back to top ↑
Final Thoughts
Memphis rewards organized families who hit the December 1 priority date, send score/GPA updates by March 1, and stack wisely.
Pair automatic merit with border-county or military-linked in-state options, then layer in Honors or leadership awards where they fit.
If you’re close on a higher tier, superscore and re-submit — that update window is built for exactly that.
📣 Share This Page
Know a family comparing scholarships at the University of Memphis? Share this guide:
Back to top ↑
