All admitted students are automatically considered for scholarships. In most instances, the application for admission, including the required essay, is sufficient for award consideration. Any supplemental documents required for particular scholarships will be provided on our site. Scholarship selection criteria vary. Satisfying the initial criteria listed does not guarantee that a student will receive an award. First-year scholarships are awarded to a limited number of incoming first-year students based on grade point average, class rank, standardized test scores or similar criteria.
The Michigan State University Alumni Distinguished Scholarship is a competitive award. It is awarded to the top 15 candidates based on intellectual performance and participation in the MSU Alumni Distinguished Scholarship competition. Invitations to compete in the examination are sent to the most outstanding students who apply for admission by November 1st each year. Renewable over eight semesters, these scholarships include tuition, fees, room and board (double occupancy in an MSU residence hall and silver meal plan), and $1,000 annually.