Boston University Trustee Scholarship

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FOR SENIORS

The Boston University Trustee Scholarship is BU’s most prestigious merit scholarship, covering full undergraduate tuition and fees for exceptionally accomplished students with outstanding academic and leadership abilities. Applicants need a strong GPA, high standardized test scores, and significant extracurricular and leadership experience. The application requires a separate scholarship essay and is typically due around December 1st, though the scholarship’s availability for future incoming classes has been questioned recently.

Eligibility and selection

  • Academic excellence: High GPA (often 4.0), strong performance in a rigorous curriculum, and placement in the top 1-5% of the high school class are expected.
  • Standardized test scores: A strong SAT (1500+) or ACT (33-35+) score is recommended, although tests may be optional for some applicants.
  • Leadership and extracurriculars: A proven record of leadership, community service, and outstanding achievements in extracurricular activities is crucial.
  • Scholarship essay: A separate essay is required as part of the application process.
  • Nomination: A nomination is sometimes required.
  • International students: International students are eligible, but must also demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS, if applicable.

Award details

  • Coverage: The scholarship covers full undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees.
  • Duration: It is renewable for up to four years, provided certain criteria are met each year.
  • Renewal requirements: Recipients must maintain a certain GPA (e.g., 3.50 or higher) and be in good disciplinary standing.

Application process

  • Application: You must apply for admission to Boston University first.
  • Application materials: The application includes the Common or Coalition Application, transcripts, and test scores (if submitted), as well as the required Trustee Scholarship essay.
  • Deadline: The typical application deadline for the upcoming academic year is December 1st.

Other program features

  • Community: Recipients become part of a special community of scholars.
  • Housing: Scholars have the option to live in a designated brownstone residence hall with other recipients, but are not required to.
  • Flexibility: Scholars are not required to follow a specific curriculum or enroll in the Kilachand Honors College, though many choose to.