The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers various merit scholarships to incoming students, with the goal of recognizing and rewarding academic excellence. For the 2025 academic year, the deadline for submitting applications for merit scholarships is typically in December of the preceding year, but it's crucial to check the official UMass Amherst website for the most up-to-date information, as deadlines can vary from year to year.
Merit Scholarship Overview
UMass Amherst’s merit scholarships are competitive and awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, as evidenced by their high school transcripts, standardized test scores, and other application materials. The university considers a range of factors when evaluating applicants for merit scholarships, including GPA, class rank, and extracurricular activities. Early application submission is highly recommended, as it allows the admissions committee to review applications in a timely manner and make informed decisions about scholarship awards.
Scholarship Types and Eligibility
UMass Amherst offers several types of merit scholarships, each with its own set of eligibility criteria and application requirements. Some of the most notable scholarships include the Chancellor’s Scholarship, which is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic talent and leadership potential, and the Commonwealth Scholarship, which is reserved for students from Massachusetts who exhibit outstanding academic achievement and a commitment to community service. To be considered for these scholarships, applicants must submit a complete application package, including transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation, by the designated deadline.
| Scholarship Type | Eligibility Criteria | Award Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Chancellor's Scholarship | 3.8 GPA, top 10% class rank, SAT/ACT scores | $10,000 - $20,000 per year |
| Commonwealth Scholarship | 3.5 GPA, top 20% class rank, community service experience | $5,000 - $15,000 per year |
Application Process and Requirements
To apply for UMass Amherst merit scholarships, students must submit a complete application package, which includes the Common App or UMass Amherst application, official transcripts, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. Applicants are encouraged to review the university’s website for specific requirements and deadlines, as these may vary depending on the scholarship program. Additionally, students may be required to complete a separate scholarship application or essay, which should be submitted by the designated deadline.
Deadline and Notification
The deadline for submitting applications for UMass Amherst merit scholarships in 2025 is expected to be in December 2024, but this date is subject to change. Applicants who submit their materials by the deadline will be considered for merit scholarships, and notification of award decisions will be made on a rolling basis, typically between February and April of the following year. Students who are selected to receive a merit scholarship will be notified via email and will be required to respond to the award offer by a specified deadline.
- December 2024: Merit scholarship application deadline
- February - April 2025: Award notification and decision release
- May 2025: Response deadline for merit scholarship award offers
What is the deadline for submitting applications for UMass Amherst merit scholarships in 2025?
+The deadline for submitting applications for UMass Amherst merit scholarships in 2025 is expected to be in December 2024, but applicants should check the official university website for the most up-to-date information.
How do I apply for UMass Amherst merit scholarships?
+To apply for UMass Amherst merit scholarships, students must submit a complete application package, including the Common App or UMass Amherst application, official transcripts, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. Additional requirements may apply, depending on the scholarship program.
