Financial Aid

Scholarships

Admissions Scholarships for New Students

All incoming freshman and transfer students with a completed admissions application will be reviewed for merit based scholarships. Most scholarships require high academic achievement. To be considered, the Admissions Office must receive your completed application and all supporting documents by December 31 for fall admission. Scholarship criteria can be found in the Grand Valley Scholarship Database.

Department & Endowed Scholarships

Grand Valley offers over 250 endowed and department scholarships. The majority of scholarship deadlines fall between February 15 and March 1.  All available opportunities and scholarship criteria can be found in the Grand Valley Scholarship Database.

  • Department scholarships vary and may be based on interests, academic performance, special talents or major.
  • Endowed scholarships are made possible through generous donations. The criteria for scholarships vary based on requirements established by the donors.

Important Dates

December 31

Deadline for incoming freshman and transfer students to be considered for Merit Based Scholarships awarded by the Admissions Office. Search for scholarship requirements in the scholarship database.

February 15 through March 1

Deadline to be considered for GVSU Department and Endowed Scholarships. Search for scholarships requirements in the scholarship database.

March 1

Maximize your financial aid options! File your FAFSA by March 1st for priority consideration. Learn more about applying for aid here.

Scholarship Tips

Watch out for scams!

You should not have to pay for financial aid or scholarship searches.

Stay organized.

Make a file of the scholarships and their deadlines so you apply on time.

Keep records.

Make a copy of the application and any attachments. Also make sure to find a contact number or name to follow up with the scholarship donor.

Be patient.

Sometimes it will be months before you know you have been chosen to receive a scholarship.

Do your research.

It is best to start your scholarship search the year before you need the scholarships. High school guidance offices and local libraries are good sources of scholarship information. You may also wish to check with local organizations, businesses, churches and your parents' employers.