What is a merit-based scholarship and how can I qualify for one?

I've heard a lot about merit-based scholarships but I'm not entirely sure what sets them apart from other types of scholarships. I'm really interested in knowing how colleges award these scholarships and what criteria they typically look for.

Does it mainly depend on your GPA and test scores, or do they consider other factors like extracurricular activities and leadership? Also, if anyone has personal experiences or tips on securing a merit-based scholarship, I'd love to hear them. Trying to figure out the best way to prepare and position myself to qualify!

Merit-based scholarships are unique in that they are awarded to students based on their capabilities and achievements rather than financial need. Whether you earn a merit-based scholarship is determined by a range of factors, many of which stress academic or athletic talent.

One of the most significant indicators of merit for colleges is a strong academic record, which includes not simply your GPA, but also the rigor of the courses you've taken and how they align with the intensity of the institution's curriculum. For example, if you've taken several Advanced Placement (AP) courses and earned high grades in these academically challenging classes, this could potentially increase your odds for a merit-based scholarship.

Test scores were traditionally part of the merit-based scholarship equation before the shift to test-optional policies by many colleges. This has led many institutions to place less emphasis on test scores and more on other aspects of your academic profile. However, some schools like Dartmouth, Harvard, Purdue, Brown, Yale, UT Austin, and Caltech reinstated their requirement for standardized test scores for the 2024-2025 application cycle, which might influence their merit-based scholarship decisions.

While merit-based scholarships are largely determined by academic indicators, colleges also value students who have shown considerable commitment to extracurricular activities, including leadership roles in clubs or organizations and significant community service contributions. Keep in mind that when evaluating these activities, colleges tend to focus more on depth and commitment rather than the quantity of activities.

Achievement in athletics or arts is also sometimes recognized through merit scholarships. These scholarships often require a separate application or portfolio submission, so reviewing each school's specific policy is a good starting point.

To increase your chances of receiving a merit-based scholarship, keep up your academic performance, invest time and effort in a few substantial extracurricular activities where you can demonstrate leadership, stay committed and passionate about your interests, and maintain strong relationships with your teachers for possible recommendation letters down the line.

Lastly, bear in mind that each institution might have distinct merit-based scholarship procedures, so make sure you research your specific schools of interest for the most accurate information about their criteria and application process.