As you gear up for the challenges ahead, the daunting question arises – are you financially prepared for college? Uncover the key to funding your higher education with this comprehensive list of 79 colleges offering lucrative full-ride scholarships that cover all your tuition costs.
What Is a Full-Ride Scholarship or a 100% Education Scholarship in USA?
Dreams of a scholarship covering tuition costs might seem too good to be true, but there’s something even better – the full-ride scholarship. Beyond tuition, these prestigious awards extend to cover room and board, books, travel, and supplies, sparing students from the burden of hefty expenses. For private schools, this translates to a staggering $200,000 or more in covered costs. Unlike financial aid, which considers financial need, these scholarships are solely merit-based, recognizing exceptional achievements in academics, extracurricular activities, and leadership.
What Kind of USA Schools Offer Full-Tuition Scholarships?
Peruse the list of schools below, and you’ll likely spot some familiar names. While these schools are undoubtedly excellent, top-ranking institutions rarely offer full-ride scholarships. Why? These scholarships are strategic tools used by schools to attract exceptional students with numerous options. Reserved for the academic elite, these merit-based awards aim to distinguish outstanding individuals who have excelled beyond the norm in grades, extracurriculars, and leadership.
Navigating Boundaries: Are International Students Eligible for USA Scholarships?
The allure of full-ride scholarships extends predominantly to US citizens, limiting opportunities for international students. Although exceptions exist, this list primarily caters to American residents. International students keen on these scholarships should explore specific eligibility criteria online or reach out to the respective school’s scholarship or admissions office for personalized information. It’s a challenging quest, but the rewards for those who stand out are unparalleled.
Embark on your college journey armed with the knowledge of 79 institutions willing to invest in your potential. Full-ride scholarships await those who have proven themselves as academic and extracurricular standouts. Dive into the possibilities and secure your path to higher education without the burden of financial constraints.
How to look for Scholarships in USA universities?
Securing a full-ride scholarship involves strategic choices in selecting colleges that align with your academic prowess and achievements. To enhance your chances, consider exploring schools where your grades, test scores, and extracurricular achievements place you significantly above the average admitted student. This advantageous position enhances your likelihood of receiving scholarship funds.
While pursuing familiar names is natural, don’t overlook lesser-known colleges that offer exceptional academic experiences. These institutions, although lacking widespread recognition, actively seek standout students to elevate their reputation. Uncover hidden gems that may be the perfect fit for your educational journey.
Despite targeting specific schools, be prepared for intense competition. Full-ride scholarships are rare and highly coveted, demanding excellence beyond the ordinary. Diversify your strategy by pursuing other financial avenues, including traditional need-based aid and various independent merit-based scholarships. A comprehensive approach ensures you maximize your opportunities and minimize reliance on the competitive landscape of full-ride scholarships.
Navigate the intricate path towards your educational dreams with a strategic mindset. By exploring both renowned and lesser-known institutions, you increase your chances of discovering the ideal full-ride scholarship that aligns with your academic prowess and personal goals. Remember, while these scholarships are a coveted prize, a well-rounded financial strategy ensures a more robust foundation for your college journey.
Full-Ride Scholarships/100% Scholarships at Top National Universities in USA List
University of Chicago (Chicago, Illinois)
Stamps Scholarship: This prestigious award covers tuition, fees, room and board, and includes a $10,000 enrichment fund for junior and senior years. International students are eligible to apply, with selection based on leadership, perseverance, scholarship, service, and innovation.
Pinnacle Pursuits: Full-Ride Scholarships at Top National Universities
Explore the exclusive realm of top-ranked national universities that defy the norm by offering exceptional merit-based scholarships alongside standard need-based aid. These esteemed institutions, listed based on their national ranking by US News, extend unique opportunities for deserving students to embark on their academic journeys without the financial burden. The list is arranged in order of university ranking.
University of Chicago (Chicago, Illinois)
Stamps Scholarship: This prestigious award covers tuition, fees, room and board, and includes a $10,000 enrichment fund for junior and senior years. International students are eligible to apply, with selection based on leadership, perseverance, scholarship, service, and innovation.
Duke University (Durham, North Carolina)
Robertson Scholars Leadership Program: Offering full tuition, fees, and room and board, this program also provides funding for up to three domestic summer experiences. Winners embody purposeful leadership, intellectual curiosity, strength of character, and a collaborative spirit.
Vanderbilt University (Nashville, Tennessee)
Ingram Scholarship Program: Full tuition and stipends for summer projects are provided in this scholarship, with selection based on commitment to community service, personal character, and leadership potential.
Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship: Covering full tuition and offering a one-time stipend for summer study abroad or research, this scholarship considers academic achievement, intellectual promise, leadership, and contributions outside the classroom.
University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, Indiana)
Stamps Scholarship: This full-tuition scholarship includes fees and a $12,000 enrichment fund, along with a professional mentor. Selection criteria include leadership, perseverance, scholarship, service, and innovation, with nominations by the admissions office.
Washington University in St. Louis (St. Louis, Missouri)
John B. Ervin Scholars Program: Full tuition and a $2,500 annual stipend are provided to applicants excelling academically, demonstrating initiative, leadership, and a commitment to community service.
Annika Rodriguez Scholars Program: Covering full tuition and offering a $2,500 annual stipend, this scholarship emphasizes academic achievement, commitment to serving historically underprivileged populations, and bringing diverse groups together.
Danforth Scholars Program: This program covers full or partial tuition and requires a separate application, including an additional letter of recommendation.
Emory University (Atlanta, Georgia)
Emory Scholars Program: This exclusive scholarship offers full tuition and enrichment stipends, available only to top students at Emory. The application deadline is November 15.
University of California, Los Angeles (Los Angeles, California)
Stamps Scholarship: Providing full tuition and an enrichment fund of up to $12,000, this scholarship is awarded based on leadership, scholarship, community service, and innovation. Nominations are by UCLA, and up to 10 scholarships are awarded annually.
University of Southern California (Los Angeles, California)
Mork Family Scholarship: Covering full tuition plus a $5,000 stipend, this scholarship is awarded to finalists selected by USC faculty based on academic achievement, talent, perseverance, innovation, involvement, and leadership.
Stamps Scholarship: Offering full tuition and a $5,000 annual enrichment fund, this scholarship is also selected by USC faculty based on academic achievement, talent, perseverance, innovation, involvement, and leadership.
Trustee Scholarship: Covering full tuition, this scholarship considers academic achievement, talent, perseverance, innovation, involvement, and leadership, with approximately 100 scholarships awarded each year.
University of Virginia (Charlottesville, Virginia)
Jefferson Scholarship: This scholarship covers full tuition, fees, room and board, books, an enrichment program, and personal expenses. Nominated students must attend an eligible school, with a maximum of 36 scholarships awarded each year.
Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem, North Carolina)
Nancy Susan Reynolds Scholarship: Covering full tuition and offering a stipend, this scholarship considers scholarship, achievement, and personal interviews, with an application deadline of December 1.
Stamps Scholarship: This scholarship covers full tuition, fees, room and board, books, and personal expenses, along with an enrichment stipend of up to $15,000. Selection criteria include educational achievements, academic motivation, maturity, and character.
University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
Stamps Scholarship: An annual scholarship covering the full cost of attendance and up to $10,000 in enrichment funds for approximately 18 students admitted through early action. Selection is based on academic achievement, exceptional talent, leadership, and service and community involvement.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Chapel Hill, North Carolina)
Morehead-Cain Scholars: Covering full tuition, fees, housing, books, meals, a laptop, supplies, and funding for research and summer opportunities. Open to students from designated nominating schools globally.
Robertson Scholars Leadership Program: Providing full tuition, fees, room and board, and funding for up to three domestic summer experiences. Awarded to students showing purposeful leadership, intellectual curiosity, strength of character, and collaborative spirit.
Boston College (Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts)
Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program: Paying full tuition and offering summer opportunities to selected early action applicants. Approximately 15 awards are given annually, with an early action application deadline of November 1.
College of William and Mary (Williamsburg, Virginia)
Stamps 1693 Scholarship: Covering full in-state tuition, fees, room and board, and offering $5,000 for independent projects. All applicants are considered, with semifinalists contacted by the selection committee.
William and Mary Scholars: Providing full coverage for in-state tuition and fees, offered to academically strong applicants enhancing campus diversity. All applicants to the college are considered.
Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, Georgia)
Stamps President’s Scholars Program: This scholarship covers full tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, a laptop, and $15,000 in enrichment funding. Awarded to the top 1% of students at Georgia Tech displaying dedication to leadership and service. To be considered, students must apply by the early application deadline of October 15.
University of Rochester (Rochester, New York)
Alan and Jane Handler Endowed Scholarship: A combination of merit- and need-based aid, guaranteeing full tuition, individual mentoring, and up to $5,000 for professional or academic enrichment. Selection is based on financial need, academic excellence, leadership, and mastery of difficult challenges.
Boston University (Boston, Massachusetts)
Trustee Scholarship: Awarding full tuition plus fees, this scholarship requires exceptional academic credentials and displays of intellectual and creative adventurousness. The application deadline is December 1, with about 20 students selected each year.
Tulane University (New Orleans, Louisiana)
Deans’ Honor Scholarship: Covering full tuition, this scholarship is based on general achievements and a creative project. A maximum of 75 scholarships are awarded each year, with submission by December 5.
Paul Tulane Award: Offering full tuition, this scholarship is based on general achievement and additional writing components. A maximum of 50 scholarships are awarded annually, with applications due by December 5.
Carthage College (Kenosha, Wisconsin)
Lincoln Scholarship At Carthage College, the Lincoln Scholarship is a comprehensive award covering full tuition, room, and board. To be eligible, applicants need to complete the separate Presidential Scholarship application, typically available in October. Additionally, they are required to submit a personal statement. This prestigious scholarship sees three recipients chosen annually.
Clausen Scholarship Another offering from Carthage College is the Clausen Scholarship, covering full tuition. Like the Lincoln Scholarship, applicants must complete the Presidential Scholarship application and provide a personal statement. This scholarship is also awarded to three students each year.
Ruud Scholarship Similar to the Clausen Scholarship, the Ruud Scholarship at Carthage College covers full tuition. Applicants must complete the Presidential Scholarship application and submit a personal statement. This scholarship, too, is awarded to three students annually.
Drake University (Des Moines, Iowa)
National Alumni Scholarship Drake University presents the National Alumni Scholarship, encompassing full coverage of tuition, fees, and room and board. Eligible students must demonstrate exceptional academic prowess with ACT scores of at least 31 or SAT scores of at least 1430. Additionally, they should be in the top 5% of their high school class and maintain a GPA of 3.8 or above. The university awards a maximum of six scholarships each year, and the deadline for submission is December 1.
Indiana University Bloomington (Bloomington, Indiana)
Wells Scholars Program Indiana University Bloomington offers the Wells Scholars Program, which covers the full cost of attendance for four years. Students eligible for this scholarship may be nominated by their high schools, the admissions office, or an IU faculty member. Annually, the university selects and honors 18-22 students with this prestigious award.
Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago, Illinois)
Duchossois Leadership Scholars Program In Chicago, the Illinois Institute of Technology hosts the Duchossois Leadership Scholars Program. This all-encompassing scholarship covers full tuition, room and board, summer educational experiences, a fall retreat, and mentoring. To qualify, students need a GPA of at least 3.5 and must be in the top 10% nationally in standardized test scores. The application deadline for this scholarship is December 1.
Miami University (Oxford, Ohio)
University Merit Scholarship Miami University offers the University Merit Scholarship, covering full tuition. Eligible students should have SAT scores of at least 1480 or ACT scores of at least 33, along with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Those applying for university admission by December 1 receive priority consideration for all scholarships and honors programs.
Michigan State University (East Lansing, Michigan)
Alumni Distinguished Scholarship Michigan State University presents the Alumni Distinguished Scholarship, providing full tuition, fees, room and board, and a yearly $1,000 stipend. Eligible students are invited to participate in a scholarship examination, with a submission deadline of November 1. A maximum of 15 awards are granted annually.
Distinguished Freshman Scholarship Runners-up of the Alumni Distinguished Scholarship are awarded the Distinguished Freshman Scholarship, covering full tuition and fees. Annually, 20 scholarships are distributed to qualified students.
Oberlin College (Oberlin, Ohio)
Conservatory Dean’s Awards Oberlin College supports its conservatory and double-degree students with the Conservatory Dean’s Awards, covering 100% of demonstrated financial need. Moreover, nearly all students in these programs receive additional scholarship funding, creating a comprehensive financial support structure.
The Ohio State University (Columbus, Ohio)
Eminence Fellows Scholarship The Ohio State University provides the Eminence Fellows Scholarship, covering full tuition along with a $3,000 enrichment fund. Typically awarded to students ranking in the top 3% of their high school classes with an ACT score of 34+ or an SAT score of 1520+, this scholarship aims to recognize and support outstanding academic achievement.
Morrill Scholarship Program Targeting academically strong applicants contributing to diversity on campus, the Morrill Scholarship Program offers three award levels: Distinction, covering the full cost of attendance; Prominence, covering full tuition; and Excellence, covering in-state tuition.
Purdue University (West Lafayette, Indiana)
Stamps Scholarship Purdue University’s Stamps Scholarship is an invitation-only opportunity covering full tuition and providing an additional $10,000 for enrichment activities. Selection is based on leadership, academics, extracurricular activities, and personal history. To be considered, students must apply for admission to Purdue by November 1.
University of Illinois (Champaign, Illinois)
Stamps Scholarship The University of Illinois offers the Stamps Scholarship, covering the total cost of attendance and providing additional funds for enrichment activities such as study abroad experiences, internships, and research. Approximately five scholarships are awarded each year.
James Hunter Anthony & Gerald E. Blackshear Endowment This scholarship at the University of Illinois provides full tuition and fees for up to four years, requiring eligible students to be graduates of an Illinois high school.
Southern Schools
Agnes Scott College (Decatur, Georgia)
Marvin B. Perry Presidential Scholarships Agnes Scott College awards the Marvin B. Perry Presidential Scholarships, covering full tuition, room, and board. Promising applicants are extended invitations to apply for this prestigious scholarship.
Goizueta Foundation Scholarships This scholarship, offered by Agnes Scott College, covers full tuition and room and board. Annually, preference is given to Hispanic/Latina women demonstrating both academic excellence and financial need. Eligible applicants must reside in the United States, regardless of citizenship.
Birmingham-Southern College (Birmingham, Alabama)
Distinguished Scholars Award Birmingham-Southern College presents the Distinguished Scholars Award, covering full tuition. Eligible students receive invitations to apply based on their academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, interviews, and essays.
Clemson University (Clemson, South Carolina)
National Scholars Program Clemson University’s National Scholars Program provides full tuition and fees, along with an allowance for room, board, and supplies. Selection criteria encompass outstanding academic achievement, leadership, service, and extracurricular activities.
Davidson College (Davidson, North Carolina)
John M. Belk Scholarship Davidson College offers the John M. Belk Scholarship, covering full tuition, fees, room and board, and up to $6,000 in special study stipends. It is awarded to students demonstrating exceptional promise in academics, character, leadership, and service. Candidates must be nominated by a counselor or administrator, with a maximum of eight awards granted annually.
Lowell L. Bryan Scholarship This scholarship, covering full tuition and fees, targets one female and one male athlete in each freshman class at Davidson College. It aims to recognize students contributing significantly to sports, academics, and co-curricular life.
Charles Scholarship Davidson College’s Charles Scholarship provides full tuition, fees, room and board, a book allowance, travel expenses, and personal expenses. Eligibility is extended to graduates of Chicago public high schools with strong academic records and financial need. Preference is given to students of color, particularly Hispanic/Latin
Furman University (Greenville, South Carolina)
James B. Duke Scholarship The James B. Duke Scholarship at Furman University covers full tuition and includes stipends of up to $5,000 for summer study experiences. Selection is based on exceptional academic achievement and personal accomplishments.
Hendrix College (Conway, Arkansas)
Hays Memorial Scholarship Hendrix College offers the Hays Memorial Scholarship, covering full tuition, mandatory fees, a residence hall room, and an unlimited board plan. To be eligible, applicants need a 3.6 GPA and a 32 ACT or 1410 SAT score. The application deadline is February 1.
Hendrix College Scholarship This scholarship, ranging from $18,000 to full tuition, is awarded based on factors such as GPA, test scores, recommendations, leadership experience, and extracurricular activities. All admitted students are automatically considered for this scholarship.
Liberty University
Valedictorian/Salutatorian Scholarship Liberty University’s Valedictorian/Salutatorian Scholarship covers full tuition per year for up to four consecutive academic years. Eligible students must graduate ranked first or second in their class with an unweighted GPA of 3.5 and a minimum SAT/ACT score of 1350/29.
National Merit Scholarship This scholarship covers 100% tuition for four consecutive years for students earning commended, semi-finalist, or finalist status in the National Merit program. Finalists also receive room and board as part of the award.
Louisiana State University (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
Stamps Scholarship Louisiana State University presents the Stamps Scholarship, covering full tuition and providing up to $14,000 for enrichment activities. Eligible students should have a 3.5 GPA or higher and SAT scores of 1440+ or ACT scores of 33+. Invitations to apply are extended to eligible students.
Mercer University (Macon, Georgia)
Stamps Scholarship Mercer University’s Stamps Scholarship covers full tuition, fees, room and board, books, and up to $16,000 in enrichment funds. This prestigious scholarship is awarded to the highest achievers in the entering freshman class, and the application deadline is October 15.
North Carolina A&T State University (Greensboro, North Carolina)
National Alumni Scholarship North Carolina A&T State University’s National Alumni Scholarship covers full tuition, fees, room and board, and books. Eligible students should have a minimum 3.5 GPA and SAT scores of 1100 or above or ACT scores of 22 or above. The application requires a one-page autobiography and three letters of recommendation.
Lewis and Elizabeth Dowdy Scholarship This scholarship at North Carolina A&T State University covers full tuition plus room and board. Eligible students should have at least a 3.75 GPA and SAT scores of 1270 or above or ACT scores of 27 or above. The application includes a one-page essay and two letters of recommendation.
North Carolina State University (Raleigh, North Carolina)
Park Scholarship North Carolina State University offers the Park Scholarship, covering full tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, travel, a laptop, and personal expenses. Recipients gain admission to the University Scholars Program. Selection is based on academic merit, exemplary character, exceptional potential for leadership, and the promise of enduring contributions to humanity. The application deadline is in early November.
Oglethorpe University (Atlanta, Georgia)
Civic & Service Engagement Scholarship This scholarship at Oglethorpe University provides full tuition to two students deeply engaged in community service. Selection is based on activities during Scholarship Weekend, and application is by invitation only.
James Edward Oglethorpe Scholarship The James Edward Oglethorpe Scholarship at Oglethorpe University awards full tuition to four recipients chosen through a scholarship competition held during Scholarship Weekend. Application is by invitation only.
OU Theatre Scholarship Oglethorpe University’s OU Theatre Scholarship covers full tuition for two students interested in the study of theater. Recipients are selected based on Scholarship Weekend activities, and application is by invitation only.
Rhodes College (Memphis, Tennessee)
Bellingrath Scholarship Rhodes College’s Bellingrath Scholarship covers the full cost of tuition and is awarded to one applicant each year.
Saint Louis University (Saint Louis, Missouri)
Presidential Scholarship Saint Louis University’s Presidential Scholarship covers full tuition. Eligible applicants should have a GPA of at least 3.85 (weighted or unweighted) and scores of at least 1390 on the SAT or 30 on the ACT. To be considered, applicants need to submit their application to the school and fill out the additional Presidential Scholarship application by December 1.
Salem College (Winston-Salem, North Carolina)
Robert E. Elberson Scholarship Salem College’s Robert E. Elberson Scholarship covers full tuition, room and board, and a semester of study abroad in England. This prestigious scholarship, awarded to only one student each year, requires an invitation for application. To be considered, applicants must submit their application to the school by January 1.
Chatham/Davis/Weyand/Womble/Whitaker Scholarships Salem College offers the Chatham/Davis/Weyand/Womble/Whitaker Scholarships, covering full tuition for 10-15 students. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership qualities, responsibility, concern for others, initiative, motivation, creativity, resourcefulness, and vigor. Finalists compete for these scholarships during Scholarship Weekend.
John Preston Davis Art Full-Tuition Scholarship This scholarship at Salem College covers full tuition for students interested in the study of studio art, art history, or design. Applicants need to answer an essay and provide a recommendation. Finalists will be interviewed at Scholarship Weekend.
Southern Methodist University (Dallas, Texas)
President’s Scholars Program Southern Methodist University’s President’s Scholars Program covers full tuition and fees, along with one summer and one academic-year program abroad. Under certain conditions, scholars might receive an additional award to cover room and board. Finalists are invited to interview based on high SAT/ACT scores, a challenging high school curriculum, a top 10% high school class ranking, and demonstrated community involvement. The application deadline is January 15, with no additional application required for the scholarship.
Texas Christian University (Fort Worth, Texas)
Chancellor’s Scholarship Texas Christian University awards the Chancellor’s Scholarship to the most academically accomplished applicants, covering full tuition. Most recipients have average test scores of 2150 on the old SAT or 33 on the ACT and are in the top 3% of their graduating high school classes. In the 2016-17 school year, 54 scholars were selected from more than 500 finalists.
University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, Alabama)
Academic Elite Scholarship The University of Alabama’s Academic Elite Scholarship has two levels. The first level awards seven scholars full tuition, an $8,500 yearly stipend, a $2,000 book scholarship, and one year of on-campus housing. The other level awards one top scholar full tuition, an $8,500 stipend for the first year (followed by an $18,500 stipend)
