Embark on a Journey of Financial Assistance and Academic Achievement
South Alabama, a vibrant and transformative institution, offers a myriad of scholarships to support the dreams of aspiring scholars. These scholarships, ranging from merit-based to need-based, aim to empower students to reach their full potential without the burden of financial constraints.
Types of South Alabama Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships
- Presidential Scholarship: The highest honor awarded to incoming freshmen with exceptional academic records and standardized test scores.
- Jaguar Scholarship: A prestigious scholarship granted to incoming freshmen who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Honors College Scholarship: Reserved for students admitted to the University Honors College, which offers advanced coursework and research opportunities.
- Academic Excellence Scholarship: Available to incoming freshmen with strong academic credentials.
Need-Based Scholarships
- Federal Pell Grant: Provides financial aid to eligible undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): Additional need-based assistance to students with exceptional financial need.
- South Alabama Access Scholarship: A need-based scholarship designed to support eligible students who reside in designated counties in Alabama.
- Alabama Student Assistance Program (ASAP): A state-sponsored scholarship program that provides tuition assistance to Alabama residents in need.
How to Apply for South Alabama Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships:
- Automatic consideration for all incoming freshmen based on their high school transcripts and standardized test scores.
- No separate application required.
Need-Based Scholarships:
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1st to be considered.
- Submit additional documentation as requested by the Office of Financial Aid.
Estimated Scholarship Amounts
Merit-Based Scholarships:
- Presidential Scholarship: $20,000 per year
- Jaguar Scholarship: $15,000 per year
- Honors College Scholarship: $10,000 per year
- Academic Excellence Scholarship: $5,000 per year
Need-Based Scholarships:
- Federal Pell Grant: Up to $6,495 per year
- FSEOG: Up to $4,000 per year
- South Alabama Access Scholarship: Up to $2,000 per year
- ASAP: Up to $2,000 per year
Scholarship Renewal Process
Merit-Based Scholarships:
- Most merit-based scholarships are renewable for up to four years provided the student maintains the required GPA and enrollment status.
Need-Based Scholarships:
- Need-based scholarships are typically renewable for one year and require students to submit an annual FAFSA to demonstrate continued financial need.
Additional Tips for Scholarship Success
- Explore all scholarship opportunities available.
- Seek guidance from high school counselors or university financial aid advisors.
- Start the application process early.
- Submit complete and accurate applications.
- Follow up regularly with the Office of Financial Aid.
- Maintain a strong academic record.
- Engage in extracurricular activities and community service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many scholarships does South Alabama offer?
A: South Alabama offers a wide range of scholarships, including both merit-based and need-based awards. The number of scholarships available varies each year.
Q: Are scholarships guaranteed?
A: Merit-based scholarships are competitive and not guaranteed. Need-based scholarships are based on financial need and are typically awarded to eligible students who demonstrate the greatest need.
Q: How do I check my scholarship status?
A: You can check your scholarship status online through the MySouthAlabama portal or by contacting the Office of Financial Aid.
Q: What if I don’t qualify for any scholarships?
A: If you do not qualify for any scholarships, you may still be eligible for other forms of financial aid, such as federal loans and work-study.