By Laura Whitmore
College is expensive. With tuition, room, board, and other fees, it’s no surprise that families are looking for ways to reduce costs. One often-overlooked strategy is merit-based aid. Unlike need-based aid, which depends on family income and assets, merit-based aid is awarded based on your GPA, test scores, or a combination of both. Learn more about how merit-based aid works, why it matters, and how to maximize your chances of receiving it!
Want a break from reading? Watch my YouTube video instead!
1. What Is Merit-Based Aid? 🤔
Merit-based aid is financial assistance awarded to students for their academic achievements, typically measured by GPA and standardized test scores. It’s different from need-based aid, which relies on your family’s financial situation. While some students qualify for a mix of both types, many fall into the “middle”—earning too much to qualify for need-based aid but still struggling to afford rising college costs.
What makes merit-based aid appealing is its transparency. Many colleges now publish clear grids showing how much you can earn based on your academic performance. For example, a student with a certain GPA and SAT score may automatically qualify for $10,000 or more in yearly scholarships.
2. Why Merit-Based Aid Matters More Than Ever ⭐️
College costs have soared over the years. Some institutions are now more than twice as expensive as they were 20 years ago. While it’s still possible to get need-based aid, it often doesn’t cover enough, especially for families with multiple children.
That’s where merit-based aid comes in. By improving your GPA or boosting your SAT/ACT score, you could qualify for thousands of dollars in scholarships—without relying on financial aid forms. For instance, scoring just a few points higher on the SAT could mean the difference between paying full price and getting a significant tuition discount.
3. The Transparency of Merit-Based Grids 📄
One of the best developments in recent years is the rise of merit aid grids. These tools outline exactly what GPA and test score combination will earn you scholarships at certain schools. For example, at Missouri State University, students can see how a GPA of 3.9 combined with an SAT score of 1130 qualifies for $34,000 over four years.
This clarity allows students to set realistic academic goals. Knowing that improving your SAT score by 50 points could save you $10,000 per year is a strong motivator to study.
4. Test-Optional Schools and Merit Aid 🏫
It’s true that many colleges are now test-optional. However, test scores still play a critical role in earning scholarships at most schools. Even if submitting scores isn’t required for admission, they can significantly boost your chances of receiving merit aid. For example, a student might qualify for $100,000 in scholarships simply by raising their SAT score to meet a college’s published grid requirements.
Optional doesn’t mean irrelevant. Submitting strong test scores shows colleges that you’ve put in the effort, and it often pays off in significant financial savings.
5. Creative Ways to Reduce College Costs 💡
In addition to merit aid, there are other strategies to lower college expenses. For example:
Becoming a Resident Advisor (RA): This role often comes with free or discounted room and board.
House-sitting: Some students arrange to house-sit for professors or community members during college, saving on living costs.
By pairing merit aid with these creative approaches, you can make college far more affordable.
6. When to Start Planning for Merit Aid 🗓️
The earlier, the better. Your GPA starts counting from the first day of high school, so it’s important to take academics seriously from the start. While SAT and ACT prep typically begins in junior year, maintaining a strong GPA throughout high school is critical to maximizing merit aid opportunities.
If you’re ready to prepare for the SAT or ACT and want personalized guidance, check out our 1:1 tutoring options to get started.
7. Find the Right Scholarships 🔍
It’s essential to research colleges and their scholarship opportunities thoroughly. Websites like MeritAidGrids.com allow you to explore scholarships by state and institution, helping you understand what’s available.
You’ll find transparent grids that make it easier to compare schools and see the impact of improving your test scores or GPA.
8. Take Action Today 🔥
Merit-based aid is an incredible way to reduce the cost of college. By focusing on academics and test prep, students can earn thousands in scholarships that don’t need to be repaid. Whether you’re just starting high school or about to take the SAT, it’s never too late to start planning!
With the right preparation, merit aid could be the key to making your college dreams a reality.
Happy prepping!
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