Freshman FAQ
Q: How is it decided whether an applicant receives a scholarship?A: The decisions are based on academic, financial, and personal assessments. The assessment points are totaled which determines not only if, but also how much of a scholarship is awarded. Q: If I do not meet all of the academic requirements, may I apply?
A: Yes, the award is based on many factors, not just the academic requirements. We do accept applications from students who do not meet the minimum criteria. It depends on the competition each year how much below the criteria we can offer scholarships and on how an applicant makes up the points in the financial and personal assessments. Keep in mind this is a competitive academic scholarship, so you are competing with students who do meet the academic requirements. Q: What if I retake the ACT/SAT1 test?
A: We should receive the results before a decision is made on your application, since we cannot reevaluate your file based on new scores after the decision is made. Please indicate on the application the date you are retaking (or taking) the test. We will check with our Admissions Office for the results, but keep in mind that it is your responsibility to provide us with a copy of your score report. Also, sometimes the student receives the results before ASU. We will accept your highest score from a single test (i.e., do not combine sub scores from separate test dates). Q: What if my high school does not have my transcript and class rank updated through the first semester of my senior year by the deadline?
A: You may submit a transcript through the end of your junior year. However, if your class rank changes significantly when the transcripts and ranks are updated, please ask your high school official to provide us with the new information. Q: What do you mean by "financial need?"
A: There are many factors that determine how many points you receive for the financial section of the application. We use a formula similar to what the federal government uses to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, which includes income, assets, number in household, and number in college. Q: When is the last date I may apply for the scholarship?
A: February 1 is the priority deadline for complete applications; however, we will continue to accept applications after that date until June 1 if funds are still available. Once all funds are committed for the upcoming academic year, we will no longer distribute or accept applications. Q: When will I know the decision on my application?
A: Normally, the first award letters are mailed approximately one month after the deadline, and the awarding process continues as applications are completed and evaluated.