At Southern Connecticut State University, we believe in opening doors—creating opportunities for students to achieve their academic and personal goals. Through a combination of merit-based, donor-funded, and external scholarships, Southern proudly supports thousands of students each year in making their education more accessible and affordable.
Merit Scholarships
Southern awards merit-based scholarships to select newly admitted first-year, transfer, and graduate students as part of the admission process, no separate application is required. Southern merit awards typically range from $500 to $4,000 per student annually and are renewed automatically based on continued academic eligibility.
Key Highlights:
- Awarded based on academic achievement and program criteria
- FAFSA may be required for certain merit-based programs
- Students must be matriculated to receive financial aid
Honors College and The Presidential Merit Scholarship
The Honors College application for first year and transfer students is due on December 31st for fall admission. If you are a current SCSU student, please contact Honors College about eligibility. Students who are accepted receive the $7,000 Presidential Merit Scholarship, which is automatically renewed each year as long as they remain enrolled in the Honors College. Note: students may not receive both the Merit Scholarship and the Presidential Merit Scholarship.
For more info or to apply, visit SCSU Honors College
Questions: Contact honorscollege@southernct.edu
SCSU Foundation Scholarships
Thanks to the generosity of alumni, parents, and friends of the university, the SCSU Foundation offers 300+ scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students. With one simple online application, students are automatically matched to every scholarship for which they qualify—no need to apply to each one individually.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Undergraduates: Minimum GPA 2.0 and 12 SCSU credits by end of Fall
- Graduate students: Minimum GPA 3.0 and 9 SCSU credits by end of Fall
Important Dates:
- Application opens: November 1
- Deadline: February 28
- Awards announced: Early June
- Applied to: Following academic year
Apply for SCSU Foundation Scholarships
Other Scholarships
Students are also encouraged to explore a wide range of external scholarships, offered by organizations outside the university. These awards can supplement SCSU financial aid and lessen out-of-pocket costs.
Browse External Scholarships