Western Colleges with Scholarships for a 3.5 GPA
A 3.5 GPA can open doors in the West — but not always through traditional scholarships. In this region, the biggest financial advantage often comes from tuition-reduction programs like WUE, not just named merit awards.
West strategy tip: In this region, the goal is often not to “win a scholarship” — it is to qualify for a lower tuition rate. For many families, that is where the biggest savings happen.
That is what makes the West different. Public universities dominate the conversation, out-of-state tuition can be steep, and the smartest move is often to look for pricing systems that rework the entire bill instead of hoping for one standalone scholarship.
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What this means: In the West, a 3.5 GPA often puts your student in range for reduced tuition programs, selective merit, or both — but outcomes depend heavily on the school, the state, the major, and whether the discount is automatic, capped, or competitive.
Important context: This page focuses on colleges in the West where a 3.5 GPA may put your student in range for scholarships or tuition reductions. Some programs depend on residency, some exclude certain majors, and some offer either a tuition discount or merit aid — but not both.
Why a 3.5 GPA Matters in the West
In the West, a 3.5 GPA is often strong enough to move a student into the real conversation for tuition-reduction programs and selective merit. It may not make them a standout everywhere, but it often puts them in the range where schools start using pricing as a recruitment tool.
That matters because Western public universities often have a huge gap between resident and nonresident tuition. When a family finds the right discount structure, the savings can be much more meaningful than a small named scholarship.
CRP Insight: In the West, the biggest “scholarship” is often not a scholarship at all — it is a change in how the college prices your student.
This is one of the few regions where a family can save a serious amount of money without landing a flashy merit award, simply by understanding how the tuition system works.
What Changes at a 3.5 GPA
At this GPA range, families begin to move into the part of the West where real pricing leverage becomes possible. The win is not always a scholarship check. Often, it is a tuition reset.
- WUE eligibility becomes more realistic. At many schools, a 3.5 GPA is comfortably within the range where reduced tuition may come into play.
- The 150% rule matters. WUE is not a grant — it is a tuition cap that can keep the price at no more than 150% of the resident tuition rate.
- Out-of-state pricing can drop dramatically. For some families, this is the difference between a school being unrealistic and being very much in play.
- Selective merit may still be available. Some schools layer in additional scholarship consideration, though not always on top of a WUE rate.
- Major restrictions become more important. High-demand programs may have different rules or may be excluded from discount pricing.
CRP Insight: At many Western schools, reduced-tuition eligibility often starts somewhere in the low-to-mid 3s — but exact rules vary by campus, major, and year.
Reality check: A 3.5 GPA does not automatically unlock every top Western public university. But it can create strong financial pathways at many other schools that are actively trying to recruit out-of-state students.
Merit Leverage in the West
In the West, merit strategy is really pricing strategy. Families usually do best when they compare tuition systems, WUE eligibility, and scholarship tradeoffs side by side instead of looking only for named awards.
CRP Insight: A WUE discount can often save more money than a traditional merit scholarship at another school.
This is also the region where families need to read the fine print. Some colleges cap the number of reduced-tuition spots, some exclude certain majors, and some force a choice between the WUE rate and a merit scholarship rather than allowing both.
- Target WUE schools first. That is often where the biggest financial leverage begins.
- Check major eligibility. Nursing, engineering, business, and other high-demand programs may follow different rules.
- Compare WUE vs merit. In many cases, schools award whichever option gives the better deal rather than letting families stack both.
- Apply early. Some campuses have limited discount spots or earlier priority timelines.
- Focus on final price, not award labels. In this region, the wording matters less than the bill.
CRP Pro Tip: In the West, you usually need to evaluate whether the better win is the tuition discount or the merit award. The best-looking scholarship on paper is not always the best overall price.
Student Scenarios: What This Looks Like in Real Life
A 3.5 GPA can create very different outcomes in the West depending on whether the family is targeting WUE schools, high-cost California publics, or private colleges trying to compete with public-university pricing.
The WUE Strategist
3.5 GPA + flexible Western college list: This family wins by targeting schools where the reduced tuition rate changes the whole math, not just the scholarship line.
The California Reality
3.5 GPA + out-of-state California dream: This student may get admitted to some strong schools, but often does not see the kind of pricing relief families expect from other Western states.
The Private College Play
3.5 GPA + private-school comparison shopping: Some private colleges in the West use merit to stay competitive, which means the final net price can land closer to a public option than families expect.
The Major-Matters Family
3.5 GPA + high-demand major: This family has to read the details carefully, because a discount that applies to one program may not apply to another.
Scholarship Matches
Based on a 3.5 GPA | West Region
Showing Merit Scholarship Opportunities
These are colleges in the West where a 3.5 GPA may put your student in range for scholarship opportunities or reduced tuition. Some schools below are worth watching because of WUE or other pricing advantages, while others may make sense because of merit aid or overall value.
Regional strategy note: In the West, the smartest comparison is usually not “Which school gave the biggest scholarship?” It is “Which school changed the total price the most?”
The California caveat: If you are chasing value from out of state, do not assume California publics will behave like other Western schools. For many families, states like Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Idaho, or Oregon produce stronger price outcomes for this GPA range.
Scholarship Matches
Based on a GPA 3.5 | West profile. Institutions with actionable merit aid identified.
Colleges Listed
55
Total institutions with matching merit programs.
Showing all Scholarship results. These are colleges where your GPA puts you in range for real scholarship opportunities — including automatic, competitive, and honors-based awards For more information on each college, click to view the full scholarship breakdown.
Important: Some scholarships listed as “automatic” may still depend on application timing, funding limits, or test scores for the highest award levels. Use the details on each college to understand how predictable the offer really is.
🏛️ Utah Tech University (formerly Dixie State)
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ UT
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Half Merit (Nonresident)
GPA: 2.30 | Ends: July 15
Strategic Note: Nonresident students with mid-2 GPA ranges who apply for the Half Merit waiver by the deadline and then maintain full-time enrollment and at least a 2.0 college GPA.
+ 5 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ San Diego State University
FULL TUITIONGPA 3.5+ CA
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Cal Grant A or B
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: March 2
Strategic Note: CA residents with demonstrated need and required GPA
🏛️ University of Utah
FULL TUITIONGPA 3.5+ UT
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ For Utah Scholarship
GPA: 3.20 | Ends: Dec 1
Strategic Note: Lowest-income Utah residents who meet GPA threshold and federal Pell eligibility
🏛️ University of Montana (Missoula)
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ MT
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: December 1 (priority deadline for WUE consideration)
Strategic Note: Nonresident students from WUE states with at least a solid B average or higher, with the strongest chances around a 3.9+ GPA and rigorous coursework.
🏛️ University of Idaho
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ ID
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Invitation to Idaho (Nonresidents)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: March 1
Strategic Note: Any nonresident admitted outside WUE majors
+ 3 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ UC Riverside
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ CA
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ UCR Academic Scholarship
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: November 30 (UC application deadline).
Strategic Note: Admitted freshmen with strong academics (roughly 3.6+ UC GPA and solid course rigor), though exact selection criteria are not publicly specified.
+ 3 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Saint Mary's College of California
$30,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Dean’s Scholarship
GPA: 3.40 | Ends: Nov 1 priority / Jan 15 final
Strategic Note: Students admitted with solid grades and college-preparatory coursework in the mid-to-upper GPA range.
🏛️ UC Merced
$25,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Fiat Lux Scholars Program
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: November 30 (UC application); March 2 (FAFSA or CADAA priority filing date)
Strategic Note: Invitation-only cohort of first-generation, income-eligible California residents with strong academic records and demonstrated financial need.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Idaho State University
$21,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ ID
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Out-of-State Scholar Non-Resident Tuition Waiver (NRTW)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: July 1 (fall); November 1 (spring)
Strategic Note: New nonresident undergraduates with GPAs around 3.5 or higher have best chances, but a 3.0 GPA is typically required for consideration; awards are limited, competitive, and may exclude oversubscribed majors or regions.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ California Baptist University
$16,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Deans Scholarship
GPA: 3.30 | Ends: Rolling; priority consideration by December 5.
Strategic Note: Admitted freshmen with a cumulative high school GPA between 3.3 and 3.89 on CBU’s weighted scale.
+ 4 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Montana State University
$15,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ MT
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: January 6 (WUE app); December 1 (priority)
Strategic Note: Western state students with early application (GPA 3.0+)
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Nevada Reno
$15,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ NV
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ WUE (Western Undergraduate Exchange)
GPA: 3.25 | ACT: 24 | SAT: 1160 | Ends: Feb 1
Strategic Note: Out-of-state WUE-state students with strong GPA/test scores and WUE-eligible majors
+ 3 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Western Washington University
$14,913 / YRGPA 3.5+ WA
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ WUE — Western Undergraduate Exchange
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: January 31 (priority admission for WUE consideration)
Strategic Note: High-achieving nonresident applicants from WUE-eligible states, typically with unweighted GPAs around 3.7 or higher, who apply by January 31 and are selected within a limited pool.
+ 3 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Boise State University
$13,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ ID
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ WUE Scholarship
GPA: 3.20 | Ends: Dec 15
Strategic Note: High B+/A- applicants from WUE states who apply early
🏛️ Oregon State University
$12,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ OR
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Provost Scholarship (Nonresident Freshmen)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: February 1 (priority)
Strategic Note: Solid academic record among nonresident pool
🏛️ Southern Utah University
$12,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ UT
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Centurium Non-Resident (East / Non-WUE States)
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: Admission file complete by March 1.
Strategic Note: A broad range of academically admissible out-of-state students from non-WUE states with GPAs starting around 2.5, though higher GPAs are common among recipients.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Alaska Fairbanks
$12,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ AK
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Nanook Pledge Scholarship (Nonresident)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: June 15 (fall), November 1 (spring)
Strategic Note: All admitted nonresident students at or above the minimum GPA; higher GPAs get higher awards.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Wyoming
$12,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ WY
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Brown & Gold Commitment (Non-Residents)
GPA: 3.25 | Ends: May 1 (confirm enrollment for fall admission to retain offer)
Strategic Note: Nonresident students with at least a mid‑3s GPA and, for higher tiers, ACT scores in the mid‑20s or higher; lower tiers available test-optional.
🏛️ Colorado School of Mines
$10,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Provost Award (Non Resident)
GPA: 2.00 | Ends: Nov 1 (Early Action / priority) and Jan 15 (Regular) first-year admission deadlines.
Strategic Note: Admitted nonresident students with a solid academic profile who are competitive for Mines but not necessarily at the very top of the pool.
🏛️ University of Colorado Denver
$10,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ International Automatic Merit Scholarships
GPA: 2.85 | Ends: Admission deadline; auto-awarded upon review
Strategic Note: International first-year or transfer students with GPA ≥2.85 (U.S. scale), not funded by sponsors/governments.
🏛️ Colorado State University
$10,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Green & Gold Scholarship (Non-Resident)
GPA: 3.30 | Ends: February 1 (fall entry)
Strategic Note: Most admitted non-resident students with 3.3+ GPA
🏛️ Northern Arizona University (NAU)
$9,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ AZ
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ President’s
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: May 1
Strategic Note: Upper third of AZ high school admits by GPA
+ 3 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Colorado State University Pueblo
$8,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Automatic
Guaranteed for high-stat profiles
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How This Is Awarded
→ Presidential Scholar
GPA: 3.50 | ACT: 30 | SAT: 1370 | Ends: May 1 (admission application, transcript, and any test scores)
Strategic Note: First-time freshmen at the very top of their class or with very high ACT/SAT scores who submit all materials by May 1 and enroll full time in the fall after high school graduation.
🏛️ Grand Canyon University
$7,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ AZ
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ President’s Scholarship
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: At admission (rolling)
Strategic Note: Strong academic admits with GPAs roughly in the 3.5–3.8 range.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Colorado Colorado Springs
$6,250 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Peak Award
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: February 1 priority; June 1 final deadline for new students.
Strategic Note: First-time nonresident freshmen and transfers who are not eligible for WUE, have approximately 3.5+ weighted GPAs (or 3.0+ college GPAs and 24+ transfer credits), and intend to complete their degrees at UCCS.
🏛️ University of Northern Colorado
$5,500 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Provost Nonresident
GPA: 3.40 | Ends: March 1
Strategic Note: Nonresident and international first-years with GPAs in the 3.40–3.79 band who enroll full-time.
+ 5 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Portland State University
$5,100 / YRGPA 3.5+ OR
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Park Blocks Scholarship
GPA: 3.20 | Ends: Feb 1 (FAFSA), March 1 (priority application)
Strategic Note: Middle-income Oregon students with 3.2+ GPA and completed FAFSA.
🏛️ University of South Dakota
$4,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ SD
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Coyote Beginnings (Commitment level)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: December 1 (priority)
Strategic Note: ~3.0 GPA for lower, 3.6–4.0+ or ACT 27+ for top tier; committee reviews high school performance.
🏛️ Metropolitan State University of Denver
$4,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ RaiseMe Micro-Scholarships
GPA: 2.00 | Ends: July 1 (incoming freshmen profile completion); other MSU Denver scholarship deadlines may also apply
Strategic Note: Incoming freshmen who actively use RaiseMe to log grades and activities, complete their profile by July 1, and enroll at MSU Denver while maintaining at least half-time status and satisfactory academic progress.
🏛️ UC Santa Cruz
$3,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Regents Scholarship
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: November 30 (UC application deadline).
Strategic Note: A small group of the most academically distinguished first-year and transfer students, often with very high UC GPAs and rigorous coursework.
🏛️ University of Hawaii at Manoa
$2,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ HI
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Centennial Scholarship
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: Jan 5
Strategic Note: Many eligible in-state students with 3.5+ GPA
🏛️ South Dakota State University
$2,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ SD
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Jackrabbit Guarantee — Tier 2
GPA: 3.50 | ACT: 23 | SAT: 1130 | Ends: Dec 1
Strategic Note: Students with strong grades and mid-20s ACT
🏛️ Utah Valley University
$2,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ UT
●Automatic
Predictable tier-based criteria
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How This Is Awarded
→ Transfer Academic Merit — Distinguished
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: Rolling (subject to UVU transfer scholarship timelines)
Strategic Note: Transfer students with at least 24 completed credits and GPAs of 3.5 or higher seeking first-year tuition relief.
Strategic Note: Based on your stats, you also strongly qualify to compete for the Competitive & Hidden Gem awards below. These require holistic review or a separate application.
🏛️ University of Colorado Colorado Springs
FULL TUITIONGPA 3.5+ CO
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Kane Family Foundation Scholarship
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: February 1
Strategic Note: Colorado residents with very strong academic records (around 3.7+ GPA), extensive leadership and community involvement, and outstanding application materials, selected directly by the foundation’s process.
+ 4 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ California State University Fullerton
FULL TUITIONGPA 3.5+ CA
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ President’s Scholars Program
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: Late January–early February; Titan Scholarship Portal window typically open until March 1.
Strategic Note: Small cohort of top California applicants with near-perfect GPAs, rigorous coursework, and sustained leadership and community service.
+ 5 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Colorado State University Pueblo
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ CO
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative (COSI)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: Spring (varies by COSI cohort and CSU Pueblo timeline)
Strategic Note: Low-income or priority Colorado residents, including adult learners, who meet COSI criteria and remain in good academic standing.
+ 3 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Western Washington University
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ WA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Center for Cross-Cultural Research (CCCR) Tuition Scholarships
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: May 4
Strategic Note: Undergraduate and graduate students engaged with the Center for Cross-Cultural Research who are first-generation or from underrepresented groups in research and show active research involvement.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Weber State University
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ UT
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Professional Sales Student Association (PSSA) Leadership Scholarship
GPA: 2.75 | Ends: Typically February 1; departmental deadlines may vary.
Strategic Note: Professional Sales majors who hold leadership roles or contribute significantly to PSSA activities and maintain solid academic performance.
+ 5 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of San Diego
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ CA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Bob Hope Leadership Scholarship
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: Set annually by Student Affairs, typically in spring
Strategic Note: Juniors and seniors maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA who demonstrate significant campus leadership, service, and financial need.
🏛️ University of South Dakota
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ SD
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ South Dakota Freedom Scholarship
GPA: 2.00 | Ends: March 1
Strategic Note: Students with significant unmet need and SD residency
+ 5 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Utah Tech University (formerly Dixie State)
FULL TUITIONGPA 3.5+ UT
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Trailblazer Promise
GPA: 2.00 | Ends: March 1 priority FAFSA deadline
Strategic Note: Low-income Utah residents who qualify for Pell Grants, complete the FAFSA on time, and remain enrolled and in good standing at Utah Tech.
+ 4 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ CA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ City & Regional Planning Scholarships
GPA: 3.25
Strategic Note: High-achieving CRP majors with strong studio work and service involvement
🏛️ Brigham Young University
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ UT
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Need-Based Scholarships (BYU)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: FAFSA due around January 20; BYU scholarship application due around February 1.
Strategic Note: Undergraduate students who demonstrate significant financial need on the FAFSA and scholarship application and meet BYU’s minimum GPA thresholds.
🏛️ San Jose State University
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ CA
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Global Spartan Scholarship
GPA: 3.30 | Ends: April 1
Strategic Note: International students active in leadership, service, or intercultural/global engagement with results
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Nevada Las Vegas
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ NV
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Academic Success Center — Dean’s Award
GPA: 2.00 | Ends: Spring (annually)
Strategic Note: Exploring students who keep responsive and maintain eligibility
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Southern Utah University
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ UT
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Scholarship Housing (Dixie & Anne Leavitt Foundation)
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: February 1 (final deadline for Scholarship Housing application for the 2026–27 year).
Strategic Note: Full-time students with at least a 3.0 GPA who demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA and are willing to live in designated Leavitt housing; particularly helpful for students whose biggest expense is housing.
🏛️ University of Utah
AWARD VARIESGPA 3.5+ UT
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Student Leadership Awards
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: Spring (varies by role)
Strategic Note: Students selected as RAs, student government leaders, or ambassadors who maintain good academic and conduct standing
+ 9 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ South Dakota State University
FULL TUITIONGPA 3.5+ SD
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Air Force ROTC Scholarships
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: Dec 31 (national)
Strategic Note: STEM, fit, academic
+ 4 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Wyoming
FULL RIDEGPA 3.5+ WY
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Tomé Scholars to Fellows Program
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: March 15, 2025 via WyoScholarships; some annual calls list a July 7 deadline through the Wyoming Natural Resource Foundation.
Strategic Note: Small cohort of students with excellent academics and a clear commitment to environment and natural resources, often with advanced coursework and prior ENR involvement.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of California - Santa Barbara
$125,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Promise Scholars
GPA: 2.75 | Ends: Mar 2
Strategic Note: High-need California residents and AB 540/undocumented applicants admitted to UCSB.
🏛️ California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
$25,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Frank A. Tennant Endowed Scholarship
GPA: 3.25 | Ends: Typically March 2 via Bronco Scholarship Portal; window may vary by year.
Strategic Note: High-achieving Communication majors in Multimedia Journalism or Public Relations with at least a 3.25 GPA and a strong portfolio and application.
+ 7 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Washington
$22,500 / YRGPA 3.5+ WA
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS)
GPA: 2.75 | Ends: Feb
Strategic Note: Need-eligible Washington STEM or healthcare majors, often first-gen or underrepresented students
+ 6 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ California State University Sacramento
$18,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ CSU Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: Campus nomination deadline typically aligned with March 2 scholarship cycle; specific date varies by year.
Strategic Note: One extraordinary Sacramento State student annually who demonstrates superior academic performance, significant financial need, and exceptional service, leadership, or resilience.
+ 4 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of California Davis
$16,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Continuing Undergraduate Scholarships
GPA: 3.25 | Ends: Jan 7
Strategic Note: Students with strong ongoing UC Davis record and community or academic engagement
🏛️ University of Colorado Denver
$15,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Reisher Scholars
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: Varies (open Feb)
Strategic Note: Sophomores and transfers with 3.0+ GPA, need, and service.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Saint Mary's College of California
$13,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Lasallian Leadership Scholarship
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: Varies by year (often spring); confirm with Financial Aid or the Lasallian programs office.
Strategic Note: Graduates of Lasallian high schools with at least a 3.5 GPA and strong records of leadership and service.
🏛️ Colorado State University
$11,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Reisher Scholarship
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: March 1
Strategic Note: High-achieving, need-based Colorado sophomores
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Colorado Boulder
$10,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ President’s Leadership Class (PLC)
GPA: 3.25 | Ends: Feb 15
Strategic Note: 30–40 strong leaders, including rural or socioeconomic barrier students
🏛️ University of Northern Colorado
$10,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ ACS-Hach Land Grant Scholarship
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: April 1
Strategic Note: High-performing chemistry, biochemistry, and science education majors who meet ACS criteria, including at least a 3.0 GPA and commitment to teaching or chemistry careers.
🏛️ University of Nevada Reno
$10,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ NV
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship
GPA: 3.25 | ACT: 21 | SAT: 1070 | Ends: Early August (final transcript to Nevada Treasurer)
Strategic Note: Most Nevada public and charter high school graduates meeting GPA or test and core course requirements
+ 6 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Colorado School of Mines
$10,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Starzer Service Scholars
GPA: 2.85 | Ends: Varies by year; applications follow an annual cycle listed in the scholarship portal.
Strategic Note: Undergraduates with strong, sustained community engagement and mission-driven service, often with preference for Colorado high school graduates.
🏛️ Chapman University
$10,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Fowler School of Engineering Scholarships
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: Follows general admission deadlines; some departmental awards and renewals may have later internal timelines after enrollment.
Strategic Note: First-year and transfer engineering students with solid academics and involvement or strong potential in engineering or STEM programs.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Alaska Anchorage
$7,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ AK
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS)
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: June 30 (FAFSA deadline)
Strategic Note: AK residents with strong HS academics, curriculum, and test scores who complete the FAFSA.
🏛️ Grand Canyon University
$6,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ AZ
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Canyon Christian Schools Consortium (CCSC) Award
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: Typically early spring; specific date varies by year.
Strategic Note: Graduates of CCSC partner Christian high schools who enroll full time at GCU and meet minimum GPA and service or participation requirements.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Eastern Washington University
$6,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ WA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Music Department Scholarships
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: February 1 for general scholarship application; music audition dates vary by program
Strategic Note: Music majors, minors, and ensemble participants who perform strongly at auditions and remain active in assigned groups.
+ 4 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Seattle University
$6,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ WA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Thomas J. Bannan Scholarship
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: February 7 for current students; May 9 for transfer applicants
Strategic Note: Junior and senior STEM majors in the College of Science and Engineering with GPAs of 3.5 or higher and active involvement in service, scholarly, and community activities.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Portland State University
$5,616 / YRGPA 3.5+ OR
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Resident Opportunity Scholarship
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: Feb 1 (FAFSA)
Strategic Note: Oregon resident first-time freshmen with 2.5+ GPA and qualifying FAFSA/need.
🏛️ Boise State University
$5,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ ID
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Crankstart Reentry Scholarship
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: Jun 1 (scholarship app deadline)
Strategic Note: Idaho residents returning after 24+ months gap; priority first-gen/nontraditional
🏛️ University of Southern California (USC)
FULL RIDEGPA 3.5+ CA
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Mork Family Scholars
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: Dec 1 (scholarship consideration deadline)
Strategic Note: A tiny cohort (around 10 or fewer) of incoming first-year students with extraordinary academic talent, leadership, and citizenship.
🏛️ University of California Los Angeles
$5,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Ola Zuckerman ‘39 Scholarship
GPA: 3.50 | Ends: April 7
Strategic Note: First-gen, high-need, academically strong freshmen
🏛️ UC Santa Cruz
$5,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ UC Santa Cruz Campus Scholarships
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: March 2 (aligned with FAFSA/CADAA priority deadline).
Strategic Note: Continuing students across majors who maintain roughly 3.0+ GPAs and submit strong essays; many awards go unclaimed when students do not apply.
🏛️ UC Merced
$5,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Donor-Funded Scholarships (ScholarshipUniverse)
GPA: 3.30 | Ends: Application window typically opens February 1; March 2 FAFSA/CA Dream Act priority date for many awards.
Strategic Note: Students with GPAs in the low‑to‑mid 3s or higher whose major, service, or background closely matches donor criteria.
🏛️ University of Oregon
$5,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ OR
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Arts & Performance Awards
GPA: 2.75 | Ends: Varies by program (often Jan–Mar)
Strategic Note: Music, dance, art, and other performance majors with strong portfolios or auditions and consistent engagement
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ Utah Valley University
$5,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ UT
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Departmental & College-Specific Awards
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: Varies by department; many follow the General Scholarship Application priority date.
Strategic Note: Students who declare a major, engage early with their academic department, and complete the general and departmental scholarship applications with strong academic records or departmental involvement.
🏛️ San Francisco State University
$4,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Music & Piano Performance Scholarships (Bev’s POTL, Ferrando, Anderson, etc.)
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: Feb–Mar (music cycle; posted by department)
Strategic Note: Music majors (especially piano) who excel in auditions and maintain GPA
🏛️ Idaho State University
$3,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ ID
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Idaho Education Access Fund
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: November 10 for priority BOSS consideration; some awards may be made on a rolling basis
Strategic Note: First-generation, nontraditional, or otherwise underserved Idaho students who persist in their studies and demonstrate financial need and continued enrollment.
🏛️ Metropolitan State University of Denver
$3,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ CO
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Beverly J. Fourcade Nursing Scholarship
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: March 1 priority
Strategic Note: Upper-level Nursing majors with around a 3.0 GPA who show strong progress in the program.
+ 2 more qualifying scholarships available.
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🏛️ University of Alaska Fairbanks
$2,500 / YRGPA 3.5+ AK
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ UA Foundation Scholarships
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: Feb 15
Strategic Note: Students with strong GPA and those who match donor or college criteria.
🏛️ University of California Irvine
$2,500 / YRGPA 3.5+ CA
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarship
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: Nov 30
Strategic Note: CA freshmen or transfers with strong academic records and service
🏛️ Northern Arizona University (NAU)
$2,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ AZ
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ First Scholars Program
GPA: 2.50 | Ends: June (apps Apr–Jun)
Strategic Note: Engaged first-generation Arizona students with need
🏛️ University of Hawaii at Manoa
$2,000 / YRGPA 3.5+ HI
●Competitive
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ ASUH Achievement Scholarship
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: Feb 15
Strategic Note: Academically strong or highly motivated undergrads
🏛️ University of Idaho
$1,500 / YRGPA 3.5+ ID
●Hidden Gem
Holistic review / Not guaranteed
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How This Is Awarded
→ College of Science Hill Fellowship
GPA: 3.00 | Ends: Nov 7
Strategic Note: Science majors with faculty-approved research
