Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- Chancellor’s Scholars Program: This prestigious program offers full tuition coverage, a $10,000 stipend for living expenses, and additional benefits to top incoming freshmen with exceptional academic achievements.
- Distinguished Scholars Program: Similar to the Chancellor’s Scholars Program, this program awards partial tuition coverage and a $5,000 stipend to academically gifted students.
- National Merit Scholarships: UNC Wilmington automatically awards scholarships to National Merit Scholars based on their PSAT scores. The amount ranges from $2,000 to $6,000 per year.
Scholarships for Specific Majors and Interests
- Cameron Scholars Program: This program provides scholarships to students majoring in nursing, engineering, and other high-demand fields. Scholars receive full tuition coverage, a $1,500 stipend, and mentorship opportunities.
- Honors College Scholarships: The Honors College offers scholarships to students who participate in its rigorous academic program. These scholarships range from $2,000 to $10,000 per year.
- Talent Scholarships in Arts and Sciences: Scholarships are available to talented and motivated students in the arts and sciences, including music, theater, visual arts, and social sciences.
Scholarships for Diversity and Inclusion
- First-Generation Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically designed for first-generation college students who demonstrate financial need and academic potential.
- International Student Scholarships: UNC Wilmington offers scholarships to international students who excel academically and contribute to the campus community.
- Minority Scholarship Programs: The university has partnerships with organizations like the College Foundation of North Carolina and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund to provide scholarships to underrepresented minority students.
Scholarships for Financial Need
- Federal Pell Grant: This federal grant is available to eligible students with exceptional financial need. The amount of the grant varies depending on the student’s financial situation.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG): This grant is also available to students with demonstrated financial need and is awarded based on a combination of factors, including academic performance and family income.
- UNCW Promise Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to eligible North Carolina residents who have financial need and meet certain academic criteria. The scholarship covers up to the cost of tuition and fees.
Application Process
To apply for scholarships at UNC Wilmington, students must submit the following:
- An online scholarship application form
- Official high school or college transcripts
- A personal statement or essay
- Letters of recommendation
The application deadline for most scholarships is December 1st for the upcoming fall semester.
Additional Tips
- Explore external scholarship opportunities through organizations like the National Scholarship Directory or Fastweb.
- Contact your high school guidance counselor or the university’s financial aid office for guidance and support.
- Don’t be afraid to apply for multiple scholarships, even if you don’t meet all the criteria.
- Be thorough and accurate in your application materials.
- Highlight your strengths, achievements, and aspirations in your personal statement.
Conclusion
UNC Wilmington offers a wide range of scholarships to support students from diverse backgrounds and academic interests. By carefully researching and applying for these scholarships, students can significantly reduce their financial burden and achieve their academic goals.
