Understanding University of Pittsburgh Merit Scholarship Requirements
Navigating the world of university scholarships can be daunting. For students considering the University of Pittsburgh (Pitt), understanding the merit scholarship requirements is crucial. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these requirements, drawing upon available information to guide prospective and current students.
Merit-Based Scholarships at Pitt
Most scholarships at the University of Pittsburgh are awarded on a merit basis, meaning they are based on academic achievement and other talents rather than financial need. Unlike need-based aid, merit scholarships recognize and reward students who have demonstrated exceptional abilities in various areas.
Eligibility for Incoming Freshmen and Transfer Students
Many incoming freshmen and transfer students who apply to Pittsburg State University are eligible for the Great Gorilla Scholarship Program that honors their academic achievements.
Academic Achievement Awards for New Freshmen
New incoming freshmen (most recent high school graduates only) who have applied for admission and completed their admission file (submitted their high school transcript), with a minimum GPA of 2.85 are eligible for at least $1,000 per year. The scholarship is divided between the fall and spring semesters and renewable for three additional years for full time students if satisfactory academic progress is made.
Academic Achievement Awards for Transfer Students
Students transferring from an accredited college, university, or community college, who have applied for admission and completed their admission file (submitted all required college transcripts), with a minimum college GPA of 3.0 are eligible for $1,000. This award is renewable for one additional year.
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Application Process
New Pitt State students: students who are new to Pittsburg State must complete the Admission and Scholarship Application in order to be considered.
Application Deadlines
The final scholarships deadline for incoming freshmen and transfer students is based on the availability of the funds. The 2026-27 application is now available! Funds are often available up to the start of the semester.
Apply for admission and scholarships online by February 1st. International freshmen who apply before February 1 will be reviewed for international student scholarships.
Honors College Scholarships: these scholarships require a separate application and have a deadline of January 15.
GPA and Test Score Considerations
Scholarship eligibility often hinges on a student's academic record.
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Based on your cumulative high school GPA. Starting in fall 2025, ACT can also be considered.
Scholarships for Current Students
There are many scholarship opportunities for current students. Current students must apply or re-apply for scholarships every year to be considered. Additionally, there may be scholarship opportunities available through your college, departments, and/or industry.
General Scholarships
Current Pitt State students: current students must apply or re-apply for General Scholarships each year in order to be considered.
Departmental Scholarships
Departmental scholarships may require a separate application.
FAFSA and Residency
Do you require FAFSA in order to review students for scholarships? No, scholarships to the University of Pittsburgh are based on merit considerations only.
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No, residency is not a factor in scholarship review.
Financial Aid
Students who complete the FAFSA will hear from our financial aid staff in the early spring, outlining the financial aid they are eligible for (based on financial need).
PittFund$Me
Students who are admitted and commit to Pitt will gain access to PittFund$Me - our scholarship database for departmental and endowed scholarships. Pitt students can complete an application to be automatically considered for any scholarships in the database they are eligible for.
Maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
Yes. If a student is not meeting SAP at the end of the spring term, the student must complete an SAP Appeal to be reviewed to keep any financial aid funds that have been disbursed for the Summer term. If a student does not complete the SAP Appeal, aid will be canceled.
Special Scholarship Programs
Nordenberg Leadership Scholars Program
What is the selection process/timeline for the Nordenberg Scholarship? Representatives of the University of Pittsburgh Office of Admissions and Financial Aid and the Division of Student Affairs will interview a select number of semifinalists by March 1. citizens and complete the PA Scholars application are eligible to be considered for the Nordenberg Leadership Scholars Program.
Stamps Scholarship
What is the selection process/timeline for the Stamps Scholarship? The University of Pittsburgh will interview up to 32 Stamps Scholarship Semifinalists by March 1. Finalists will then be interviewed by representatives of the Stamps Scholars Strive Foundation who will make the final selection of five recipients.
Additional Resources
As soon as possible after October 1 of your senior year, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The Office of Student Financial Assistance will receive your application electronically and will contact you if additional information or documentation is needed.
Yes. Access the scholarship application, login to GUS, and make the necessary changes.
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