2025-2026 First Year Scholarships

Based on academic record, students entering Fall 2025, Winter 2026 or Summer 2026 may be eligible for one or more of the awards listed below. 

Wildcat Merit Scholarships, Great Lakes and Bridge Awards are automatically awarded to admitted students who meet the GPA, enrollment term, and residency criteria. No application is necessary. The Bridge Award fills the out-of-state tuition gap.

Michigan Resident Scholarships

Non-Michigan Resident Scholarships 

Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

NMU will use the overall cumulative GPA reported on the high school transcript. If a high school computes more than one GPA (e.g weighted and unweighted), we will use the higher of the two. 

Students who complete college-level work prior to receiving their high school diploma are considered to be entering first-year students (with credit). New freshman/first-year admission and scholarship policies apply.  NMU class standing (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior) is determined after college transcripts are received and evaluated transfer credit. Please see Early College Credit for more information. 

*Global Campus online students should refer to nmu.edu/onlineaid. International students in a valid immigration status will find scholarship opportunities at nmu.edu/internationalprograms/scholarships.

Important Notes Regarding First Year Scholarships

A new first year student who meets the criteria for an admissions based scholarship will receive a letter describing the scholarship being awarded.  (Those not eligible will not be notified.)  Admitted students who become eligible for a new scholarship after admission (but prior to enrollment at NMU) should contact the Admissions Office to request a review.  If eligibility criteria are met based on updated information, a scholarship award letter will be mailed to the student.

Presidential Scholars Competition

For high school students who will be graduating in 2025 and entering college in Fall 2025, the Presidential Scholars Competition is designed for high school seniors to compete for 15"full-ride" scholarships. Approximately 200 additional scholarships will be awarded to participants. This year's competition will take place in-person, on NMU's campus, with a virtual option available if needed. 

To apply for the scholarship competition, students must be admitted and have a cumulative (ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades) high school GPA of 3.50. 

If a student is in an early college credit program, they are eligible to compete if they are in their final year of high school, have a high school GPA of 3.5 and will be entering college as a degree-seeking student the following year. Please see Early College Credit for more information. 

Registration deadlines apply.

Major Awards
Harden Scholarship: "full-ride" scholarship
Additional Scholarships Awards
Waldo Scholarship: $3,000/year
Kaye Munson Scholarship: $1,000/year
NMU Leadership Scholarships $2,000/year
More Information

Michigan Resident Wildcat Merit Scholarships

Michigan Residents pay in-state tuition rates

AmountAwardHS GPA
$1,500/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.0-3.24
$2,000/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.25-3.49
$2,500/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.50-3.74
$3,000/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.75-3.89
$4,000/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.9+

 

Renewal Criteria

Tuition Advantage Program

If you qualify for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and a Federal Pell Grant, NMU is committed to providing the remainder of your tuition. 

The NMU Tuition Advantage is a last dollar scholarship that provides funding for tuition after Federal, state and institutional funding is used. This includes a Federal Pell Grant, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, NMU scholarships/grants and any tuition-specific internal or external funds. Please note: NMU's Global Campus students are not eligible for the Tuition Advantage Program. 

Learn More

Jamrich Hall

"I chose to attend NMU mostly because of cost--it was the most affordable school I could apply to after scholarships were factored in. Knowing what I know now, though, I would have infinite reasons for coming to NMU."

Joe Sturm

Secondary Math Education, Kingsford, MI

Non-Michigan Resident Scholarships

The Bridge Award fills the out-of-state tuition gap between non-resident and resident tuition rates!

 

AmountAwardHS GPA
$3,000/yearGreat Lakes Award (Available to WI, MN, IL OH and IN students only)2.5-2.74
$5,600/yearBridge Award (Available to WI, MN, IL OH and IN students only)2.75 -2.99
$6,100/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.0-3.24
$6,350/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.25-3.49
$6,600/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.50-3.74
$7,600/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.75-3.89
$8,600/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.90-3.99
$9,600/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship4.0+

*State used on admissions application will determine scholarship eligibility. 

Renewal Criteria

 

Renewal Eligibility for all First Year Scholarships

  • Renewal eligibility reviewed annually after the conclusion of each Winter semester
  • Cumulative NMU GPA of 3.00 for all Wildcat Merit Scholarships and Bridge + Merit Scholarships
  • Cumulative NMU GPA of 2.5 for Great Lakes Award.
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.75 for Bridge Award for students from WI, MN, IL, OH, IN.
  • Students may receive scholarships for up to 8 consecutive semesters, or until completion of first bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
  • Students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress policy requirements.

Re-Entry students may have their original NMU scholarship reinstated if they:

  • were eligible for renewal at the time they left NMU. 
  • are within the "consecutive semesters" timeline that began with the original awarding date of said scholarship. Semesters away from NMU do count in the consecutive semesters timeline. 

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded Scholarships

Scholarships that are offered through the NMU Foundation are privately funded by donors who have created these opportunities for a variety of reasons. Often, these scholarships or endowments are established to honor a family member, classmate, mentor, friend or faculty member. In some instances, the scholarship supports a specific area of study or students from a particular region.

View List

Enrollment Requirements for all First Year Scholarships

Students must be enrolled full-time (12 or more credit hours).


Please Note: Post-Baccalaureate (post-bac) students are not eligible for our First Year scholarships. Other types of financial assistance may be available. Please consult with the financial aid office regarding your eligibility. 

Past Academic Year Scholarship Information

 

Based on academic record, students entering Fall 2024, Winter 2025 or Summer 2025 may be eligible for one or more of the awards listed below. 

Wildcat Merit Scholarships and Bridge Awards are automatically awarded to admitted students who meet the GPA, enrollment term, and residency criteria. No application is necessary. The Bridge Award fills the out-of-state tuition gap.

Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

NMU will use the overall cumulative GPA reported on the high school transcript. If a high school computes more than one GPA (e.g weighted and unweighted), we will use the higher of the two. 

Students who complete college-level work prior to receiving their high school diploma are considered to be entering first-year students (with credit). New freshman/first-year admission and scholarship policies apply.  NMU class standing (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior) is determined after college transcripts are received and evaluated transfer credit. Please see Early College Credit for more information. 

*Global Campus online students should refer to nmu.edu/onlineaid. International students in a valid immigration status will find scholarship opportunities at nmu.edu/internationalprograms/scholarships.

A new first year student who meets the criteria for an admissions based scholarship will receive a letter describing the scholarship being awarded.  (Those not eligible will not be notified.)  Admitted students who become eligible for a new scholarship after admission (but prior to enrollment at NMU) should contact the Admissions Office to request a review.  If eligibility criteria are met based on updated information, a scholarship award letter will be mailed to the student.

Presidential Scholars Competition

For high school students who will be graduating in 2024 and entering college in Fall 2024, the Presidential Scholars Competition is designed for high school seniors to compete for 15"full-ride" scholarships. Approximately 200 additional scholarships will be awarded to participants. This year's competition will take place in-person, on NMU's campus, with a virtual option available if needed. 

To apply for the scholarship competition, students must be admitted and have a cumulative (ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades) high school GPA of 3.50. 

If a student is in an early college credit program, they are eligible to compete if they are in their final year of high school, have a high school GPA of 3.5 and will be entering college as a degree-seeking student the following year. Please see Early College Credit for more information. 

Registration deadlines apply.

Major Awards
Harden Scholarship: "full-ride" scholarship
Additional Scholarships Awards
Waldo Scholarship: $3,000/year
Kaye Munson Scholarship: $1,000/year
NMU Leadership Scholarships $2,000/year


Michigan Resident Wildcat Merit Scholarships
Michigan Residents pay in-state tuition rates

Michigan Resident Scholarship and Tuition Sheet

Renewal Criteria

AmountAwardHS GPA
$1,500/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.0-3.24
$2,000/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.25-3.49
$2,500/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.50-3.74
$3,000/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.75-3.89
$4,000/yearWildcat Merit Scholarship3.9+

 

Tuition Advantage Program

If you qualify for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and a Federal Pell Grant, NMU is committed to providing the remainder of your tuition. 

The NMU Tuition Advantage is a last dollar scholarship that provides funding for tuition after Federal, state and institutional funding is used. This includes a Federal Pell Grant, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, NMU scholarships/grants and any tuition-specific internal or external funds. Please note: NMU's Global Campus students are not eligible for the Tuition Advantage Program. 

Learn More

 

Non-Michigan Resident Bridge Award and Wildcat Merit Scholarships

The Bridge Award fills the out-of-state tuition gap!

AmountAwardHS GPA
$5,600/yearBridge Award2.25 and higher
$6,100/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.0-3.24
$6,350/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.25-3.49
$6,600/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.50-3.74
$7,600/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.75-3.89
$8,600/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.90-3.99
$9,600/yearBridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship4.0+

Non-Michigan Resident Scholarship and Tuition Sheet

Renewal Criteria

 

Renewal Eligibility for all First Year Scholarships

  • Renewal eligibility reviewed annually after the conclusion of each Winter semester
  • Cumulative NMU GPA of 3.00. (Cumulative NMU GPA of 2.25 for Bridge Award)
  • Students may receive scholarships for up to 8 consecutive semesters, or until completion of first bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
  • Students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress policy requirements.

Re-Entry students may have their original NMU scholarship reinstated if they:

  • were eligible for renewal at the time they left NMU. 
  • are within the "consecutive semesters" timeline that began with the original awarding date of said scholarship. Semesters away from NMU do count in the consecutive semesters timeline. 

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded Scholarships

Scholarships that are offered through the NMU Foundation are privately funded by donors who have created these opportunities for a variety of reasons. Often, these scholarships or endowments are established to honor a family member, classmate, mentor, friend or faculty member. In some instances, the scholarship supports a specific area of study or students from a particular region.

 

Enrollment Requirements for all First Year Scholarships

Students must be enrolled full-time (12 or more credit hours).


Please Note: Post-Baccalaureate (post-bac) students are not eligible for our First Year scholarships. Other types of financial assistance may be available. Please consult with the financial aid office regarding your eligibility. 

Based on academic record, students entering Fall 2023, Winter 2024 or Summer 2024 may be eligible for one or more of the awards listed below. 

Wildcat Merit Scholarships and Bridge Awards are automatically awarded to admitted students who meet the GPA, enrollment term, and residency criteria. No application is necessary. The Bridge Award fills the out-of-state tuition gap.

Michigan Resident Scholarships

Non-Michigan Resident Scholarships

Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

NMU will use the overall cumulative GPA reported on the high school transcript. If a high school computes more than one GPA (e.g weighted and unweighted), we will use the higher of the two. 

Students who complete college-level work prior to receiving their high school diploma are considered to be entering first-year students (with credit). New freshman/first-year admission and scholarship policies apply.  NMU class standing (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior) is determined after college transcripts are received and evaluated transfer credit. Please see Early College Credit for more information. 

*Global Campus online students should refer to nmu.edu/onlineaid. International students in a valid immigration status will find scholarship opportunities at nmu.edu/internationalprograms/scholarships.

Important Notes Regarding First Year Scholarships
A new first year student who meets the criteria for an admissions based scholarship will receive a letter describing the scholarship being awarded.  (Those not eligible will not be notified.)  Admitted students who become eligible for a new scholarship after admission (but prior to enrollment at NMU) should contact the Admissions Office to request a review.  If eligibility criteria are met based on updated information, a scholarship award letter will be mailed to the student.

Presidential Scholars Competition

For high school students who will be graduating in 2023 and entering college in Fall 2023, the Presidential Scholars Competition is designed for high school seniors to compete for 15"full-ride" scholarships. Approximately 200 additional scholarships will be awarded to participants. This year's competition will take place in-person, on NMU's campus, with a virtual option available if needed. 

To apply for the scholarship competition, students must be admitted and have a cumulative (ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades) high school GPA of 3.50. 

If a student is in an early college credit program, they are eligible to compete if they are in their final year of high school, have a high school GPA of 3.5 and will be entering college as a degree-seeking student the following year. Please see Early College Credit for more information. 

Registration deadlines apply.

Major Awards
Harden Scholarship: "full-ride" scholarship
Additional Scholarships Awards
Waldo Scholarship: $12,000 ($3,000/year)
Kaye Munson Scholarship: $4,000 ($1,000/year)
NMU Leadership Scholarships$8,000 ($2,000/year)

 

Michigan Resident Wildcat Merit Scholarships

Michigan Residents pay in-state tuition rates

AmountAwardHS GPA
$6,000 ($1,500/year) Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.0-3.24
$8,000 ($2,000/year) Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.25-3.49
$10,000 ($2,500/year)Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.50-3.74
$12,000 ($3,000/year) Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.75-3.89
$16,000 $4,000/year)Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.9+

Michigan Resident Scholarship and Tuition Sheet

Renewal Criteria

 

Tuition Advantage Program

If you qualify for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and a Federal Pell Grant, NMU is committed to providing the remainder of your tuition. 

The NMU Tuition Advantage is a last dollar scholarship that provides funding for tuition after Federal, state and institutional funding is used. This includes a Federal Pell Grant, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, NMU scholarships/grants and any tuition-specific internal or external funds. Please note: NMU's Global Campus students are not eligible for the Tuition Advantage Program. 

Learn More

 

Non-Michigan Resident Bridge Award and Wildcat Merit Scholarships

The Bridge Award fills the out-of-state tuition gap!

 

AmountAwardHS GPA
$22,400 ($5,600/year)Bridge Award2.25 and higher
$26,400 ($6,600/year) Bridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.50-3.74
$30,400 ($7,600/year)Bridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.75-3.89
$34,400 ($8,600/year)Bridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship3.90-3.99
$38,400 ($9,600/year)Bridge + Wildcat Merit Scholarship4.0+

Non-Michigan Resident Scholarship and Tuition Sheet

Renewal Criteria

 

Renewal Eligibility for all First Year Scholarships

  • Renewal eligibility reviewed annually after the conclusion of each Winter semester
  • Cumulative NMU GPA of 3.00. (Cumulative NMU GPA of 2.25 for Bridge Award)
  • Students may receive scholarships for up to 8 consecutive semesters, or until completion of first bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
  • Students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress policy requirements.

Re-Entry students may have their original NMU scholarship reinstated if they:

  • were eligible for renewal at the time they left NMU. 
  • are within the "consecutive semesters" timeline that began with the original awarding date of said scholarship. Semesters away from NMU do count in the consecutive semesters timeline. 

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded Scholarships

Scholarships that are offered through the NMU Foundation are privately funded by donors who have created these opportunities for a variety of reasons. Often, these scholarships or endowments are established to honor a family member, classmate, mentor, friend or faculty member. In some instances, the scholarship supports a specific area of study or students from a particular region.

Enrollment Requirements for all First Year Scholarships

Students must be enrolled full-time (12 or more credit hours).


Please Note: Post-Baccalaureate (post-bac) students are not eligible for our First Year scholarships. Other types of financial assistance may be available. Please consult with the financial aid office regarding your eligibility. 

 

 

2022-2023 First Year Scholarships

Based on academic record, students entering Fall 2022, Winter 2023 or Summer 2023 may be eligible for one or more of the awards listed below. 

All new admitted first year students who will be enrolled on the NMU Campus* are automatically considered for the Wildcat Merit Scholarships. Scholarship amounts differ based on residency status. 

Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

NMU will use the overall cumulative GPA reported on the high school transcript. If a high school computes more than one GPA (e.g weighted and unweighted), we will use the higher of the two. 

Students who complete college-level work prior to receiving their high school diploma are considered to be entering first-year students (with credit). New freshman/first-year admission and scholarship policies apply.  NMU class standing (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior) is determined after college transcripts are received and evaluated transfer credit. Please see Early College Credit for more information. 

*Global Campus online students should refer to nmu.edu/onlineaid. International students in a valid immigration status will find scholarship opportunities at nmu.edu/internationalprograms/scholarships.

A new first year student who meets the criteria for an admissions based scholarship will receive a letter describing the scholarship being awarded.  (Those not eligible will not be notified.)  Admitted students who become eligible for a new scholarship after admission (but prior to enrollment at NMU) should contact the Admissions Office to request a review.  If eligibility criteria are met based on updated information, a scholarship award letter will be mailed to the student.

In-State Wildcat Merit Awards

Michigan Residents pay in-state tuition rates

Annual Amount HS GPA
$1,000 3.0-3.24
$2,000 3.25-3.49
$2,500 3.50-3.74
$3,000 3.75-3.89
$3,500 3.90-3.99
$4,000 4.0+

Michigan Resident Scholarship and Tuition Sheet

 

Out-of-State Wildcat Merit Scholarships

These scholarships cover the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, with additional scholarship dollars based on high school GPA. 

Annual Amount HS GPA
$5,600 3.0-3.49
$6,600 3.50-3.74
$7,600 3.75-3.89
$8,600 3.90-3.99
$9,600 4.0+

 

NMU Incentive Fund
This fund reduces the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition rates. 

Annual Amount HS GPA
$3,000 2.25 - 2.99

Non-Michigan Resident Scholarship and Tuition Sheet

 

Presidential Scholars Competition 

For high school students who will be graduating in 2022 and entering college in Fall 2022, the Presidential Scholars Competition is designed for high school seniors to compete for 15"full-ride" scholarships. Approximately 200 additional scholarships will be awarded to participants. This year's competition will take place in-person, on NMU's campus, with a virtual option available. 

To apply for the scholarship competition, students must be admitted and have a cumulative (ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades) high school GPA of 3.50. 

If a student is in an early college credit program, they are eligible to compete if they are in their final year of high school, have a high school GPA of 3.5 and will be entering college as a degree-seeking student the following year. Please see Early College Credit for more information. 

Registration deadlines apply.

Major Awards
Harden Scholarship: "full-ride" scholarship
Additional Scholarships Awards
Waldo Scholarship: $2,000/yr.
Kaye Munson Scholarship: $1,000/yr.
NMU Leadership Scholarships/yr.

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded Scholarships

Scholarships that are offered through the NMU Foundation are privately funded by donors who have created these opportunities for a variety of reasons. Often, these scholarships or endowments are established to honor a family member, classmate, mentor, friend or faculty member. In some instances, the scholarship supports a specific area of study or students from a particular region.

Renewal elgibility for all First Year Scholarships

  • Renewal eligibility reviewed annually after the conclusion of each Winter semester
  • Cumulative NMU GPA of 3.00. (Cumulative NMU GPA of 2.00 for renewal of NMU Incentive Fund)
  • Students may receive scholarships for up to 8 semesters, or until completion of first bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
  • Students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress policy requirements.

Re-Entry students may have their original NMU scholarship reinstated if they:

  • were eligible for renewal at the time they left NMU. 
  • are within the "consecutive semesters" timeline that began with the original awarding date of said scholarship. Semesters away from NMU do count in the consecutive semesters timeline. 

Enrollment Requirements for all First Year Scholarships

Students must be enrolled full-time (12 or more credit hours).


Please Note: Post-Baccalaureate (post-bac) students are not eligible for our First Year scholarships. Other types of financial assistance may be available. Please consult with the financial aid office regarding your eligibility. 

 

2021-2022 First Year Scholarships

Based on academic record, students entering Fall 2021, Winter 2022 or Summer 2022 may be eligible for one or more of the awards listed below. 

All new admitted first year students who will be enrolled on the NMU Campus* are automatically considered for the Wildcat Achievement Scholarship (see levels below). 

Non-Michigan resident students who apply to NMU are automatically considered for the National Academic Award and the NMU Incentive Fund. The National Academic Award and NMU Incentive Fund can be added to the Wildcat Achievement Scholarship. Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

NMU will use the overall cumulative GPA reported on the high school transcript. If a high school computes more than one GPA (e.g weighted and unweighted), we will use the higher of the two. 

*Global Campus online students should refer to nmu.edu/onlineaid. International students in a valid immigration status will find scholarship opportunities at nmu.edu/internationalprograms/scholarships.

 

A new first year student who meets the criteria for a scholarship to NMU will receive a letter of notification regarding the scholarship. A new first year student who does not meet the criteria or do not receive the scholarship will not be notified. For the new first year student awards, students who may meet the criteria after admission but prior to enrollment at NMU (due to updated transcripts or test scores) should contact the Admissions Office. Upon review, if the students meet the criteria, they will receive written notification regarding the scholarship they will be awarded. 

More information can be found here: Scholarship Sheet

 

Wildcat Achievement Awards

Annual AmountHS GPAACTor SAT
$1,0003.0-3.74Not RequiredNot Required
$2,0003.0-3.7424-261160-1250
 3.75+Not RequiredNot Required
$3,0003.0-3.7427-291260-1350
 3.75+24-261160-1250
$4,0003.0-3.7430-321360-1440
 3.75+27-291260-1350
$5,0003.0-3.7433-361450-1600
 3.75+30-361360-1600

 

National Academic Awards

The National Academic Award and NMU Incentive Fund are for Non-Michigan residents only. These scholarships reduce the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition rates. 

National Academic Award

Annual AmountHS GPA
$5,6003.0 or higher

NMU Incentive Fund

Annual AmountHS GPA
$3,0002.25-2.99

 

Presidential Scholars Competition

For high school students who will be graduating in 2021 and entering college in Fall 2021, the Presidential Scholars Competition is designed for high school seniors to compete for 10 "full-ride" and 10 full tuition scholarships. Approximately 200 additional scholarships will be awarded to participants. This year's competition will take place virtually.  Please see Presidential Scholars website for information about the competition for students graduating in 2022. 

To apply for the scholarship competition, students must be admitted and have a cumulative (ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades) high school GPA of 3.70 or higher OR a cumulative (ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades) high school GPA of 3.50 or higher (on a 4.0+ scale) and ACT composite score of 24 or higher or an SAT total score of 1160 .

Registration deadlines apply.

Major Awards
Harden Scholarship: "full-ride" scholarship
Presidential Scholarship: full-tuition scholarship
Additional Scholarships Awards
Waldo Scholarship: $2,000/yr.
Kaye Munson Scholarship: $1,000/yr.
NMU Leadership Scholarships/yr.

 

U.P. Grant

NMU is investing in U.P. students with our U.P. Grant. You could receive up to $4,000! Eligibility requirements include:

  • Upper Peninsula resident
  • Enrolled at NMU in fall 2021 as a new first-year freshman or transfer student
  • Household income of $100,000 or less
  • FAFSA submitted to NMU for current year (used to verify household income)
  • Full-time enrollment (12 or more credits per semester)

Additional Information for the UP Grant can be found here.

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded Scholarships

Scholarships that are offered through the NMU Foundation are privately funded by donors who have created these opportunities for a variety of reasons. Often, these scholarships or endowments are established to honor a family member, classmate, mentor, friend or faculty member. In some instances, the scholarship supports a specific area of study or students from a particular region.

 

Renewal Eligibility for all First Year Scholarships

  • Renewal eligibility reviewed annually after the conclusion of each Winter semester
  • Cumulative NMU GPA of 3.00.
    • Exceptions: National Academic Award: cumulative 2.75 NMU GPA (after first year only; NMU GPA of 3.00 thereafter) and NMU Incentive Fund: cumulative 2.0 NMU GPA.
  • Students may receive scholarships for up to 8 semesters, or until completion of first bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
  • Students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress policy requirements.

Re-Entry students may have their original NMU scholarship reinstated if they:

  • were eligible for renewal at the time they left NMU. 
  • are within the "consecutive semesters" timeline that began with the original awarding date of said scholarship. Semesters away from NMU do count in the consecutive semesters timeline. 

Enrollment Requirements for all First Year Scholarships

Students must be enrolled full-time (12 or more credit hours).


Please Note: Post-Baccalaureate (post-bac) students are not eligible for our First Year scholarships. Other types of financial assistance may be available. Please consult with the financial aid office regarding your eligibility. 

Based on academic record, students entering Fall 2020, Winter 2021 or Summer 2021 may be eligible for one of the awards listed below. 

All new admitted first year students who will be enrolled on the NMU Campus** are automatically considered for the Wildcat Achievement Scholarship (see levels below). 

Non-Michigan resident students who apply to NMU are automatically considered for the National Academic Award. The National Academic Award can be added to the Wildcat Achievement Scholarship. Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

NMU will use the overall cumulative GPA reported on the high school transript. If a high school computes more than one GPA (e.g weighted and unweighted), we will use the higher of the two. 

**Global Campus online students should refer to nmu.edu/onlineaid.

WILDCAT ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIP & NATIONAL ACADEMIC AWARD

Wildcat Achievement Scholarship

Important Notes Regarding Freshman Scholarships
A new freshman student who meets the criteria for a scholarship to NMU will receive a letter of notification regarding the scholarship. A new freshman student who does not meet the criteria or do not receive the scholarship will not be notified. For the new freshman awards, students who may meet the criteria after admission but prior to enrollment at NMU (due to updated transcripts or test scores) should contact the Admissions Office. Upon review, if the students meet the criteria, they will receive written notification regarding the scholarship they will be awarded. 

Presidential Scholars Competition

For high school students who will be graduating in 2020 and entering college in Fall 2020. The Presidential Scholars Competition is designed for high school seniors to compete for 10 "full-ride"  and 10 full tuition-tuition scholarships. Approximately 200 additional scholarships will be awarded to participants. 

To apply for the scholarship competition, students must be admitted and have an ACT composite score of 24 or higher or an SAT total score of 1160 AND a cumulative (ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades) high school GPA of 3.50 or higher (4.0 scale).

Registration deadlines apply.  See the Presidential Scholars webpage for more information and to complete the competition application. 

Harden Scholarship - tuition (12-16 credits per semester), residence hall room and board (alternative policy for NMU apartments or off campus); university fee, student activity fee, one-time athletic event fee, and MacBook fee (Art and Design majors).
Presidential Scholarship - tuition (12-16 credits per semester) for in-state or out-of-state rates; most required fees (university fee, student activity fee, one-time student athletic event fee, and MacBook fee (Art and Design majors).
Waldo Scholarship $2000/yr.
Kaye-Munson Scholarship $1000/yr.
Leadership Scholarship $2000/yr.

Enrollment Requirements for all First Year Scholarships:

  • Students must be enrolled full-time (12 or more credit hours).

Renewal Eligibility for all First Year Scholarships:

  • Renewal eligibility reviewed annually after the conclusion of each Winter semester
  • Cumulative NMU GPA of 3.00.
    • Exception: National Academic Award: cumulative 2.75 NMU GPA after year 1; Cumulative 3.00 NMU GPA thereafter.
  • Students may receive scholarships for up to 8 semesters, or until completion of first bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
  • Students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress policy requirements.

Re-Entry students may have their original NMU scholarship reinstated if they:

  • were eligible for renewal at the time they left NMU. 
  • are within the "consecutive semesters" timeline that began with the original awarding date of said scholarship. Semesters away from NMU do count in the consecutive semesters timeline. 

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded Scholarships:  Click here for a list of donor-funded scholarships that are available to first year students.

Important Notes Regarding First Year Scholarships

Post-Baccalaureate (post-bac) students are not eligible for our First Year scholarships. Other types of financial assistance may be available. Please consult with the financial aid office regarding your eligibility. 

 

2019-2020 FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS

Based on your academic record, you may be eligible for one of the awards listed below.

Global Campus online students should refer to nmu.edu/onlineaid. International students will find information here.

WILDCAT ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIP & NATIONAL ACADEMIC AWARD

Wildcat Achievement Scholarship


Non-Michigan resident students who apply to NMU are automatically considered for the National Academic Award. The National Academic Award can be added to the Wildcat Achievement Scholarship. Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

Renewal Eligibility

  • NMU Wildcat Achievement Scholarship:  Cumulative 3.00 NMU GPA.
  • National Academic Award:  Cumulative 2.75 NMU GPA after year 1; Cumulative 3.00 NMU GPA thereafter.
  • Awarded up to 8 consecutive semesters or until first bachelor's degree is earned, whichever is first.
  • For students entering Fall 2019, Winter 2020 or Summer 2020 only.
  • Must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy requirements.

Re-entry students may have their original NMU scholarship reinstated if they:

  • were eligible for renewal at the time they left NMU.
  • are within the "consecutive semesters" timeline that began with the original awarding date of said scholarship. Semesters away from NMU do count in the consecutive semesters timeline.

New Freshman:  Competitive Scholarships

High school seniors compete on campus in November.  In order to qualify for competition, students must be admitted to NMU and meet academic criteria.  Number of awards varies.  Registration deadlines apply.  See www.nmu.edu/presidentialscholars for more information and to complete the competition application.  Waldo, Kaye, Munson and Leadership Scholarships are awarded in addition to the “Excellence, Honors, Success” awards.

Harden Scholarship - tuition (12-16 credits per semester), residence hall room and board (alternative policy for NMU apartments or off campus); university fee, student activity fee, one-time athletic event fee, and MacBook fee (Art and Design majors).
Presidential Scholarship - tuition (12-16 credits per semester) for in-state or out-of-state rates; most required fees (university fee, student activity fee, one-time student athletic event fee, and MacBook fee (Art and Design majors).
Waldo Scholarship$2000/yr.
Kaye-Munson Scholarship$1000/yr.
Leadership Scholarship$2000/yr.

Renewal Eligibility (for competitive scholarships listed above):

For high school seniors with a minimum 3.50 GPA and 1160 SAT or 24 ACT.  Registration and information at nmu.edu/presidentialscholars.  DEADLINES APPLY.

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded ScholarshipsClick here for a list of donor-funded scholarships that are available to first year students.

Important Notes Regarding Freshman Scholarships

A new freshman student who meets the criteria for a scholarship to NMU will receive a letter of notification regarding the scholarship. A new freshman student who does not meet the criteria or do not receive the scholarship will not be notified. For the new freshman awards, students who may meet the criteria after admission but prior to enrollment at NMU (due to updated transcripts or test scores) should contact the Admissions Office. Upon review, if students meet the criteria, they will receive written notification regarding the scholarship they will be awarded.

2018-2019 FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS

Based on your academic record, you may be eligible for one of the awards listed below.

WILDCAT ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIP

  LEVEL V LEVEL IV LEVEL III LEVEL II LEVEL I
Annual Amount $5,000 $4,000 $3,000 $2,000 $1,000
Min. HS GPA 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0
ACT 33+ 30-32 27-29 24-26 21-23
*SAT 1490+ 1390-1480 1280-1380 1160-1270 1060-1150

*based on 2016 or later test; concordance used for earlier test

NATIONAL ACADEMIC AWARD
Added to the Wildcat Achievement Scholarships for non-Michigan residents

Annual Amount $5,600
Min. HS GPA 2.75
ACT 21
SAT 1060

 

Non-Michigan resident students who apply to NMU are automatically considered for the National Academic Award. The National Academic Award can be added to the Wildcat Achievement Scholarship. Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

Renewal Eligibility

  • NMU Wildcat Achievement Scholarship:  Cumulative 3.00 NMU GPA.
  • National Academic Award:  Cumulative 2.75 NMU GPA after year 1; Cumulative 3.00 NMU GPA thereafter.
  • Awarded up to 8 consecutive semesters or until first bachelor's degree is earned, whichever is first.
  • For students entering Fall 2018, Winter 2019 or Summer 2019 only.
  • Must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy requirements.

New Freshman:  Competitive Scholarships

High school seniors compete on campus in November.  In order to qualify for competition, students must be admitted to NMU and meet academic criteria.  Number of awards varies.  Registration deadlines apply.  See www.nmu.edu/presidentialscholars for more information and to complete the competition application.  Waldo, Kaye, Munson and Leadership Scholarships are awarded in addition to the “Excellence, Honors, Success” awards.

Harden Scholarship - tuition (12-16 credits per semester), residence hall room and board (alternative policy for NMU apartments or off campus); university fee, student activity fee, one-time athletic event fee, and MacBook fee (Art and Design majors).
Presidential Scholarship - tuition (12-16 credits per semester) for in-state or out-of-state rates; most required fees (university fee, student activity fee, one-time student athletic event fee, and MacBook fee (Art and Design majors).
Waldo Scholarship $2000/yr.
Kaye-Munson Scholarship $1000/yr.
Leadership Scholarship $2000/yr.

Renewal Eligibility (for competitive scholarships listed above):

For high school seniors with a minimum 3.50 GPA and 1160 SAT or 24 ACT.  Registration and information at nmu.edu/presidentialscholars.  DEADLINES APPLY.

Other Awards

Freshman Fellowship:  $1000 in earnings working with faculty member on research projects during freshman year; approximately 40 fellowships awarded.  Apply at www.nmu.edu/freshmanfellows by deadline.

Talent Recognition Awards: Amounts vary for awards in art/design, music and theater. Contact academic department directly to arrange auditions or obtain detailed information.

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded ScholarshipsClick here for a list of donor-funded scholarships that are available to first year students.

Alumni Legacy Scholarship: The Alumni Legacy Scholarship is offered exclusively to current students who have completed 60 credit hours whose parents or grandparent is a Northern Michigan University alumnus/na and a Michigan resident.

Non-Michigan Resident: Alumni Dependent Tuition Program: In-state tuition rates for non-resident children and grandchildren of alumni who earned an Associate degree or higher from NMU. See important details at nmu.edu/alumniassociation/tuitionprogram.

Veterans or those currently serving in the Armed Forces and their covered individuals:  Qualify for Michigan resident tuition rates with documentation of status.

ROTC Scholarships:  For information go to nmu.edu/ROTC.

Important Notes Regarding Freshman Scholarships

A new freshman student who meets the criteria for a scholarship to NMU will receive a letter of notification regarding the scholarship. A new freshman student who does not meet the criteria or do not receive the scholarship will not be notified. For the new freshman awards, students who may meet the criteria after admission but prior to enrollment at NMU (due to updated transcripts or test scores) should contact the Admissions Office. Upon review, if students meet the criteria, they will receive written notification regarding the scholarship they will be awarded.

2017-2018 FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS

Based on your academic record, you may be eligible for one of the awards listed below.

WILDCAT ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIP

  LEVEL V LEVEL IV LEVEL III LEVEL II LEVEL I
Amount $5,000 $4,000 $3,000 $2,000 $1,000
Min. HS GPA 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0
ACT 33+ 30-32 27-29 24-26 21-23
*SAT 1490+ 1390-1480 1280-1380 1160-1270 1060-1150

*based on 2016 or later test; concordance used for earlier test

NATIONAL ACADEMIC AWARD
Added to the Wildcat Achievement Scholarships for non-Michigan residents

Amount $5,400
Min. HS GPA 2.75
ACT 21
SAT 1060

 

Non-Michigan resident students who apply to NMU are automatically considered for the National Academic Award. The National Academic Award can be added to the Wildcat Achievement Scholarship. Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

Renewal Eligibility

  • NMU Wildcat Achievement Scholarship:  Cumulative 3.00 NMU GPA.
  • National Academic Award:  Cumulative 2.75 NMU GPA after year 1; Cumulative 3.00 NMU GPA thereafter.
  • Awarded up to 8 consecutive semesters or until first bachelor's degree is earned, whichever is first.
  • For students entering Fall 2017, Winter 2018 or Summer 2018 only.
  • Must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy requirements.

New Freshman:  Competitive Scholarships

High school seniors compete on campus in November.  In order to qualify for competition, students must be admitted to NMU and meet academic criteria.  Number of awards varies.  Registration deadlines apply.  See www.nmu.edu/presidentialscholars for more information and to complete the competition application.  Waldo, Kaye, Munson and Leadership Scholarships are awarded in addition to the “Excellence, Honors, Success” awards.

Harden Scholarship - tuition (12-16 credits per semester), residence hall room and board (alternative policy for NMU apartments or off campus); university fee, student activity fee, one-time athletic event fee, and MacBook fee (Art and Design majors).
Presidential Scholarship - tuition (12-16 credits per semester) for in-state or out-of-state rates; most required fees (university fee, student activity fee, one-time student athletic event fee, and MacBook fee (Art and Design majors).
Waldo Scholarship $2000/yr.
Kaye-Munson Scholarship $1000/yr.
Leadership Scholarship $2000/yr.

Renewal Eligibility (for competitive scholarships listed above):

For high school seniors with a minimum 3.50 GPA and 1160 SAT or 24 ACT.  Registration and information at nmu.edu/presidentialscholars.  DEADLINES APPLY.

Other Awards

Freshman Fellowship:  $1000 in earnings working with faculty member on research projects during freshman year; approximately 40 fellowships awarded.  Apply at www.nmu.edu/freshmanfellows by deadline.

Talent Recognition Awards: Amounts vary for awards in art/design, music and theater. Contact academic department directly to arrange auditions or obtain detailed information.

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded ScholarshipsThe award amounts, criteria and availability for these donor-gifted scholarships vary.  nmu.edu/Foundation

NMU Alumni Heritage Award$250 one-time award for children of a Michigan resident who earned an associate degree or higher from NMU. 

Alumni Legacy Scholarship 

Non-Michigan Resident: Alumni Dependent Tuition Program: In-state tuition rates for non-resident children and grandchildren of alumni who earned an Associate degree or higher from NMU. See important details.

Veterans or those currently serving in the Armed Forces and their covered individuals:  Qualify for Michigan resident tuition rates with documentation of status.

ROTC Scholarships:  For information go to nmu.edu/ROTC.

Important Notes Regarding Freshman Scholarships

A new freshman student who meets the criteria for a scholarship to NMU will receive a letter of notification regarding the scholarship. A new freshman student who does not meet the criteria or do not receive the scholarship will not be notified. For the new freshman awards, students who may meet the criteria after admission but prior to enrollment at NMU (due to updated transcripts or test scores) should contact the Admissions Office. Upon review, if students meet the criteria, they will receive written notification regarding the scholarship they will be awarded.

2016-2017 NEW FRESHMEN SCHOLARSHIPS
NMU SCHOLARSHIPS FOR NEW FRESHMEN
ENROLLING IN FALL 2016 OR WINTER 2017 OR SUMMER 2017

 

Based on your academic record, you may be eligible for one of the awards listed below.

MICHIGAN RESIDENTS     NON-MICHIGAN RESIDENTS  
NMU Excellence Award $3,000/yr.   NMU National Excellence Award $6,000/yr.
NMU Honors Award $1,500/yr.   NMU National Honors Award $4,000/yr.
NMU Success Award $1,000/yr.   NMU National Success Award $3,000/yr.

 

Awards are determined using a combination of high school GPA and ACT.  Renewal of these awards requires a 2.50 cumulative NMU GPA.

Non-Michigan resident students who apply to NMU are automatically considered for the National Academic Award. The National Academic Award can be added to the Wildcat Achievement Scholarship. Enrolling in web-based or off-campus courses may impact this award.

Renewal Eligibility

  • Freshmen may receive scholarships for up to 8 semesters, until completion of first bachelor's degree.
  • Must maintain a minimum cumulative 3.0 NMU GPA and full-time enrollment, except as noted
  • Must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy requirements.

New Freshman:  Competitive Scholarships

High school seniors compete on campus in November.  In order to qualify for competition, students must be admitted to NMU and meet academic criteria.  Number of awards varies.  Registration deadlines apply.  See www.nmu.edu/presidentialscholars for more information and to complete the competition application.  Waldo, Kaye, Munson and Leadership Scholarships are awarded in addition to the “Excellence, Honors, Success” awards.

Harden Scholarship - tuition, residence hall room and board, and most required fees.
Presidential Scholarship - tuition and most required fees
Waldo Scholarship $2000/yr.
Kaye Scholarship $1000/yr.
Munson Scholarship $500/yr
Leadership Scholarship $2000/yr.

For high school seniors  who will be new freshmen in fall semester.  Minimum academic requirements:  3.5 HS GPA and 24 ACT.  Registration and information at nmu.edu/presidentialscholars.  DEADLINES APPLY.

 

Other Awards

Freshman Fellowship:  $1000 in earnings working with faculty on research projects during freshman year; approximately 40 fellowships awarded.  Apply at www.nmu.edu/freshmanfellows by deadline.

Talent Recognition Awards: Amounts vary for awards in art/design, music and theater. Contact academic department directly to arrange auditions or obtain detailed information.

NMU Foundation Donor-Funded ScholarshipsThe award amounts, criteria and availability for these donor-gifted scholarships vary.  nmu.edu/Foundation

Alumni Legacy Scholarship 

Non-Michigan Resident: Alumni Dependent Tuition Program: In-state tuition rates for non-resident children and grandchildren of alumni who earned an Associate degree or higher from NMU. See important details.

Veterans or those currently serving in the Armed Forces and their covered individuals:, receive resident-equivalent tuition rates.

ROTC Scholarships:  For information go to nmu.edu/ROTC.

Important Notes Regarding Freshman Scholarships

A new freshman student who meets the criteria for a scholarship to NMU will receive a letter of notification regarding the scholarship. A new freshman student who does not meet the criteria or do not receive the scholarship will not be notified. For the new freshman awards, students who may meet the criteria after admission but prior to enrollment at NMU (due to updated transcripts or test scores) should contact the Admissions Office. Upon review, if students meet the criteria, they will receive written notification regarding the scholarship they will be awarded.