Scholarships come in many forms, and understanding the differences helps you apply for the right ones. This guide explains the main types, especially merit, need-based and full-ride scholarships, and what universities look for when deciding who gets them.
Merit Scholarships
Merit scholarships reward achievement, regardless of family income. Criteria may include:
- High grades and test scores
- Leadership and community service
- Talent in sports, arts or music
- Achievement in a specific subject, such as STEM
Many universities consider students for merit awards automatically when they apply for admission; others need a separate application. Note that some highly selective universities, such as Harvard and Stanford, do not offer general merit scholarships at all.
Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based aid depends on what your family can afford. Universities assess income, assets and family size, usually through forms such as the CSS Profile or their own financial aid application. The most generous need-based programmes can cover the full cost of attendance for low-income families. See how this works at Harvard and Stanford.
Full-Ride Scholarships
A full-ride scholarship covers all or nearly all costs: tuition, fees, accommodation, food, and sometimes books and travel. Full rides can be merit-based, need-based or both. They are highly competitive. Examples include major government awards such as Chevening and university awards such as the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship.
Other Types of Scholarships
- Government scholarships for international or domestic students.
- Athletic scholarships for talented sportspeople.
- Identity-based scholarships for groups such as first-generation students, women in STEM or specific regions.
- Subject-specific scholarships from professional associations.
- Research funding for graduate students through assistantships and fellowships.
Who Gets Scholarships?
Successful applicants are not always those with perfect grades. Scholarship committees often look for:
- A strong academic record relative to their opportunities
- Evidence of leadership and impact
- Clear goals and a good fit with the scholarship’s mission
- Well-written, personal and specific essays
- Strong recommendation letters
- Complete applications submitted on time
How to Improve Your Chances
- Apply widely, including smaller and local scholarships.
- Tailor every essay to the specific scholarship.
- Start early and meet every deadline.
Ready to search? See where to find scholarships.
