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Scholarships

Looking for ways to fund your education? If you can demonstrate academic excellence and leadership, you may qualify for a UH scholarship at the University of Houston. Here’s a look at the options. You also may want to explore scholarships from outside sources by browsing websites like FastWeb and Collegeboard. Questions? Contact the Financial Aid Office.

*** Important Notice ***
This website is under construction. Please stay tuned for scholarship requirements for new students entering Fall 2010, as they are changing.

NOTE: State law requires that each student identify any relation to a current University of Houston Board of Regent member. A student who is related to a current member of the governing board of that institution is prohibited from receiving scholarships unless the scholarship is awarded exclusively based on academic merit or is an athletic scholarship.

State-Funded Scholarships

The state of Texas provides funding for multiple scholarships available to outstanding students attending Texas colleges and universities. Some of the scholarships will require students to maintain a certain GPA or be a part of a specific degree program. Additionally, most of the scholarships require students to be a Texas resident.

Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program
This federally funded, state-administered program recognizes exceptional high school seniors who show promise of continued excellence in higher education. Potential recipients are nominated for this scholarship by their high school counselor. They must be in the top 10% of their class and must also be Texas residents who are US citizens, US nationals, or eligible US permanent residents. Students must submit a FAFSA to receive this award. The maximum award is $1,500 per year for up to four years. Byrd scholars need to maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA before receiving the award each semester. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board notifies the scholarship recipients.
Highest Ranking High School Graduate
The highest ranking graduate of each accredited high school in Texas is exempt from tuition only at public colleges in Texas for two semesters of the first regular session following graduation. For further information contact the University of Houston, Office of Financial Services at (713) 743-1010 ext. 6.
Valedictorian Scholarship - Students who started at the University of Houston the fall semester following their high school graduation and received the Highest Ranking State Tuition Waiver will also be eligible for an additional $3,000 per year for four years. To remain eligible, students must maintain full- time status (12 hrs. per semester) and keep a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Top 10% High School Graduate Scholarship
The scholarship is intended to encourage financially needy high school graduates in the top 10 percent of their class to attend a Texas public institution of higher education. Each qualifying student is eligible to receive $2,000 if they enroll fulltime in a Texas public college or university for fall 2009 and show financial need. To apply, students must submit an error-free Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by April 1, 2009.
Please click the scholarship title above for more details and eligibility information.
Engineering Scholarship Program
The 80th Texas legislature established the Engineering Scholarship Program to provide scholarships to students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree in engineering at a participating general teaching institution in Texas. Scholarship recipients may receive up to $5000 per academic year.
Please click the scholarship title above for more details and eligibility information.
5th Year Accounting
The purpose of this scholarship is to increase the number of highly trained and educated professional accountants available to serve the residents of this state and identify, recognize and support outstanding scholars who plan to pursue careers in accounting.
Please click the scholarship title above for more details and eligibility information.
Good Neighbor Scholarship Program
The Good Neighbor Scholarship Program is to encourage academically talented students from the countries of the Western (American) hemisphere to pursue higher education in the State of Texas thus, establishing a beneficial link between the State of Texas and their home countries. The scholarship pays full tuition only for the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. Applications must be submitted by March 12, 2010.
Early High School Scholarship
The purpose of the Early High School Graduation Scholarship Program is to provide tuition and fee assistance to students completing grades 9 - 12 early or with a significant number of college hours; thus, enabling and encouraging the student to attend college in Texas.
Please click the scholarship title above for more details and eligibility information.

University-Funded Scholarships for Freshmen

The University funds several different scholarships for incoming freshmen with awards ranging from $1,000 to $6,500 per year. Scholarship recipients are selected on the basis of academic credentials as measured by high school performance and standardized test scores. Award criteria vary from one scholarship to another, but to be eligible for any university-funded freshman scholarship, you should have accomplished the following:

  • Graduated from a high school that is accredited by the Texas Education Agency and/or the Appropriate Regional Association of Schools and Colleges.
  • Applied for admission at UH for the fall semester immediately following high school graduation.
  • Be a U.S. Citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Temporary Resident Card (form I-688 or I-688A) as provided by the Immigration and Reform Control Act of 1986.
  • Unconditionally accepted for admissions to UH by January 15th to meet priority deadline. Please note that this is the priority deadline and scholarships will continue to be awarded as long as funds are available.
  • Some scholarships require a separate application; for others, you’ll be automatically considered once you’ve submitted your application for admission. University-funded scholarships for incoming freshmen include:

    *** Important Notice ***
    This website is under construction. Please stay tuned for scholarship requirements for new students entering Fall 2010, as they are changing.

    Coming Soon!!!

    UH TierOne Scholarship

    The UH TierOne Scholarship program is a distinguished, high-profile award program developed by President Renu Khator to attract highly qualified students to the University of Houston – many of whom are eligible for admission to The Honors College.
    These scholarships will be awarded to first-time-in-college freshmen based on merit and financial need. Students may receive the award for up to five years of undergraduate study, depending on their major, and given they maintain a high grade point average. In addition, UH TierOne Scholars are guaranteed additional aid if they choose to participate in undergraduate research and study-abroad experiences.

    Stay tuned for additional information and a UH TierOne Scholarship website!

    Academic Excellence Scholarship
    Amount: $3,000 to $6,500 per year
    Qualifications: Entering freshmen who rank in the top 20% of their high school graduating class and who score 1100 or above on the SAT, or 24 and above on the ACT
    Presidential Endowed Scholarship
    Amount: $1,000 - $1,500 per year
    Qualifications: Students who have been awarded the Academic Excellence Scholarship may compete for the Presidential Endowed Scholarship by invitation from the Scholarship Office. Students must submit a list of leadership activities in resume form along with 2 letters of recommendation. This award will bring an additional $1000 – $1,500 per year, and is renewable for up to four years (or six years for Architecture or Pharmacy students.)
    Cullen Leadership Scholarship
    Amount: $1,000 per year (in addition to the Academic Excellence Scholarship)
    Qualifications: Students who have been awarded the Academic Excellence Scholarship may compete for the Cullen Leadership scholarship by invitation from the Scholarship Office. Students must submit list of leadership activities in resume form along with 2 letters of recommendation. This award will bring an additional $1000 per year, and is renewable for up to four years.
    National Merit Scholarship Finalist
    Amount: Cost of tuition, required fees, room, board, and a $500 per semester book stipend
    Qualifications: National Merit Scholarship Finalists who select UH as their first choice in accordance with the rules and deadlines established by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC)
    Terry Foundation Scholarship
    Qualifications: For graduates from a Texas high school or home school who demonstrate financial need; a record of leadership in school and community; and strong academic abilities, as evidenced by grades and SAT scores

    University Endowed Scholarships

    The University’s endowment funds provide a variety of scholarship opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students based on merit and/or need. Most of the scholarships require students to be full time, and other requirements vary from needing a specific GPA to being a part of a specific degree program, demonstrating need, or exhibiting various skills through essay writing. Scholarship recipients are selected by the University Scholarship committee.

    **Note: If you are selected as a recipient of a University Endowed Scholarship, you will not be eligible to apply for any additional endowed scholarships within the same academic year.  If you applied for previous endowed scholarships but were not selected, you may apply for future endowments provided you meet the criteria.

    Patricia Eichhorn Scholarship Endowment (Deadline: November 18, 2009)
    The Patricia Eichhorn Scholarship Endowment is intended to assist women who are returning to school. A returning student is defined as a non-traditional student who has been out of school and is returning to further their education. Applicants must submit a short biographical essay in approximately 100 words, an essay describing how the scholarship would assist them in obtaining educational goals (minimum of 100 words), and 2 letters of recommendation from an educational or professional source. Eligible students must be entering or reentering a program, enroll at least part-time, and maintain a 2.5 GPA. Students may reapply for this scholarship in the future. Applications and other required documents may be submitted at the Financial Aid counter in the Welcome Center, or in room 31 in the basement of the E. Cullen building.

    HOLBA Scholarship Endowment (Deadline: November 18, 2009)
    The HOLBA Scholarship Endowment was established by the Houston Leasing Brokers Association, Inc. to provide scholarships in the College of Business Administration, Engineering, Social Sciences (Economics) and/or Technology for a certified junior or senior demonstrating an interest in pursuing a career in office leasing or commercial real estate. Applicants must have a minimum 3.00 GPA and be enrolled full time at the University of Houston to qualify. Additionally, applicants must submit a one page essay describing their career goals in office leasing or commercial real estate and how this scholarship will help them achieve their goals. Students may reapply for this scholarship in the future. Applications and other required documents may be submitted at the Financial Aid counter in the Welcome Center, or in room 31 in the basement of the E. Cullen building.

    Breedlove Scholarship Endowment Fund (Deadline: November 18, 2009)
    The Breedlove Scholarship was established to provide scholarship support to female police officers who attend the University of Houston. Applicants must have a minimum 3.00 GPA, be enrolled full time at the University of Houston for the Fall 2009 semester and must provide proof that they are a police officer. Students may reapply for this scholarship in the future. Applications and other required documents may be submitted at the Financial Aid counter in the Welcome Center, or in room 31 in the basement of the E. Cullen building.

    Esther Marion Nelson Scholarship (Deadline: November 18, 2009)
    The Esther Marion Nelson Scholarship is intended for students who have maintained a high level of academic achievements. Applicants must have a minimum 3.00 GPA and be enrolled full time at the University of Houston for the Fall 2009 semester. Students may reapply for this scholarship in the future. Applications may be submitted at the Financial Aid counter in the Welcome Center, or in room 31 in the basement of the E. Cullen building.

    Herman A. Krause Scholarship (Deadline: November 18, 2009)
    The Herman A. Krause Scholarship is a need-based scholarship intended for male students who demonstrate need as determined by the FAFSA. Freshmen applicants must have had a B average in high school and transfer or existing students must be in good standing with the university with a minimum 2.00 GPA. Applicants must be enrolled full time in the Fall 09 semester and enroll full time in the Spring 2010 semester. Students may reapply for this scholarship in the future. Applications may be submitted at the Financial Aid counter in the Welcome Center, or in room 31 in the basement of the E. Cullen building.

    Helen A. Krause Scholarship (Deadline: November 18, 2009)
    The Helen A. Krause Scholarship is a need-based scholarship intended for female students who demonstrate need as determined by the FAFSA. Freshmen applicants must have had a B average in high school and transfer or existing students must be in good standing with the university with a minimum 2.00 GPA. Applicants must be enrolled full time in the Fall 09 semester and enroll full time in the Spring 2010 semester. Students may reapply for this scholarship in the future. Applications may be submitted at the Financial Aid counter in the Welcome Center, or in room 31 in the basement of the E. Cullen building.
    Jinnah Endowment Scholarship (Deadline: December 1, 2009)
    The Jinnah Endowment Scholarship is intended for full-time students who are in good standing with the university with a minimum of a 2.50 GPA. Undergraduate students applying must have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours at UH and graduate students applying must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours at UH. Applicants must also submit a 400 word essay in Urdu on the life of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Students may reapply for this scholarship in future semesters. Applications and essays may be submitted at the Financial Aid counter in the Welcome Center, or in room 31 in the basement of the E. Cullen building.
    Delphian Endowment Scholarship (Deadline: April 1, 2010)
    The Delphian Endowment Scholarship is based on these factors: scholarship, merit, character and financial need and will be available only for Fall and Spring semesters up to 8 semesters or graduation. Students will be considered without regard to gender, age, religion, race or ethnic origin, but must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. Qualifying applicants must be classified as an undergraduate Sophomore, Junior, or Senior. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 from all colleges attended as well as be enrolled full time (12 credit hours) each semester. Additionally, applicants must submit an official University of Houston transcript and/or transcripts from any previously attended university or college with the application. Please click the application link to view and print the application. All documents may be submitted to the SFA counter in the Welcome Center, or mailed to 31 E Cullen Building, Houston, TX 77204-2010--Attention: Delphian Endowment Scholarship.
    Bohner Memorial Scholarship Endowment (Deadline: April 30, 2010)
    The Roswell Jennings Bohner Scholarship was established to provide scholarship support for an active University of Houston member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity who exhibits outstanding academic achievements by maintaining the highest GPA. Applicants must be a current and active member of the University of Houston chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon, Incorporated and be a certified sophomore, junior or senior.  Students must be enrolled full time to qualify. Applications may be submitted to Marcella Leung in room 51K of the University Center.

     

     

    Undergraduate Research Scholarships

    The University of Houston encourages undergraduates to participate in research with a faculty mentor. In addition to programs offered through various departments and colleges, two programs currently award a stipend for qualified students from all majors to engage in a mentored research experience.

    Provost's Undergraduate Research Scholarship (PURS)
    Amount: $1000 per semester of research
    Qualifications:
    Any junior or senior who has either successfully completed at least 12 hours in residence at UH with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 OR who has completed fewer than 12 hours in residence at UH but has a 3.5 cumulative GPA on all college level course work taken at UH or elsewhere is eligible to apply. Applicants must have earned at least 60 credits by the beginning of the mentorship period and must enroll and maintain a minimum of 12 hours in the semester of the award unless they are graduating that semester. Students who have participated in the PURS program at UH in a prior semester are ineligible to reapply.
    Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)
    Amount: $2,800 for research
    Qualifications:
    The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship program at the University of Houston (SURF-UH) seeks to provide funding for rising UH sophomores, juniors and seniors to participate in a focused, full-time, 10-week research experience under the direction of UH faculty. Current freshmen that will be sophomores in fall 2008 are eligible to apply for the fellowship. However, students graduating in spring and summer 2008 are not eligible for this program, nor are students who have participated in the SURF program before at UH. No course credit will be offered for participation in this program, and students who have previously participated in the SURF-UH program are ineligible to reapply.

    College-Specific Scholarships

    Most colleges at the University of Houston offer scholarships specifically for students in those colleges. To be considered for a college-specific scholarship, submit an application through the appropriate college.

    Find out more:

    Privately Funded Scholarships

    Each year, a number of foundations, corporations, and individuals provide funding for UH scholarships. Some of these privately funded scholarships are designed to support students in a particular discipline or from a specific heritage or geographic region; others are open to students of any major or background. Offerings change often according to availability of funds and the time of the school year.

    Delphian Foundation Scholarship (Deadline April 1st)
    The Delphian Foundation Scholarship is based on these factors: Scholarship, merit, character and financial need and will be available only for Fall and Spring semesters up to 8 semesters or graduation. Students will be considered without regard to age, religion, race or ethnic origin, but must be a woman and citizen or permanent resident of the United States. Qualifying applicants must be classified as an undergraduate Sophomore, Junior, or Senior. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 from all colleges attended as well as be enrolled full time (12 credit hours) each semester. Additionally, applicants must submit an official University of Houston transcript and/or transcripts from any previously attended university or college with the application. Interviews will not be scheduled until all information is received by the Delphian office. Please click the application link to view and print the application.
    2009-2010 Energy Alumni Scholarship Endowment (Deadline July 31, 2009)
    The Energy Alumni Scholarship Endowment is for dependents of CenterPoint or Reliant Energy employees, or an employee who has been working for CenterPoint or Reliant Energy for at least one year. Applicants must be less than 26 years old and must attend school full-time. This scholarship may be used to attend any college within the UH System. Deadline to apply is July 31st. Apply Here
    2008 Monsignor William Broussard Health Career Scholarship Program
    This scholarship encourages Catholics to pursue a career in health. These $1,000 and $500 scholarships are available to Catholic students from the Catholic dioceses in Texas who will be attending an accredited university in Texas as a sophomore, junior, or senior and pursuing a major that will lead to a career in health care. A broad range of health care career paths will be considered, including nursing, occupational or physical therapy, social work, hospital administration, and others. Deadline to apply is June 30th.
    Houston Council of the Blind Fall 2008 Scholarship
    The Houston Council of the Blind (HCB) is devoted to the educational and social needs of the blind and visually impaired. Applicants to the HCB Fall 2008 Scholarship should be those who are blind or legally blind (documentation required), reside in the greater Houston area or surrounding counties, and have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. To be eligible, you need to attend school full time (minimum of 12 class hours) at a college or vocational school. Click here to learn more about eligibility and application requirements.
    Wings Over Houston Airshow Scholarship
    The Wings Over Houston Airshow Scholarships are intended to assist and reward students who have demonstrated academic potential, leadership, and extracurricular involvement. All students in good academic standing (3.0 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale) who plan to continue their education by entering the third year (junior year) as a full time student (12 credit hours or more) of any college or university are eligible. Applicants pursuing an academic degree directly associated with aviation, aeronautics, or aerospace will be given priority.
    Desk & Derrick Club of Dallas Scholarships for 2008/2009 School Year
    The Desk and Derrick Club of Dallas is offering scholarships to outstanding college students planning a career in Petroleum, Energy and Allied Industries. Funds are available to both undergraduate and graduate students. The awards depend on the qualifications and needs of each student. Eligible students are those who are natives of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, show financial need, and have an overall GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0. An official transcript, the Desk and Derrick application, current college tuition invoice and book receipts, and a letter to the committee chairman outlining the student's qualifications and goals are required. See the information sheet for details.
    Houston American Council of the Blind of Texas 2008 Scholarship
    Each year, the American Council of the Blind of Texas (ACBT) awards scholarships to entering college freshmen, current college students, and students enrolled in vocational or technical programs. Scholarship requirements include documentation of legally blindness, Texas residency, a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and acceptance for admission or current enrollment at a college or vocational/trade school. Click here to learn more about eligibility, supporting materials, and application requirements.
    FUNADEC Scholarship
    Deadline: June 30, 2008
    Applicants to the FUNADEC Scholarship need to be of Nicaraguan descent (one or both parents) and have a high School diploma or GED. Prospective recipients will have a 2.5 GPA or higher to be considered. This scholarship is awarded based on the applicant's financial need and ability to meet the requirements. The FUNADEC Scholarship will be awarded in July.
    The Woman's Club of Houston Scholarship
    The Woman's Club of Houston Scholarship is a one year $1500 maximum scholarship. Eligibility is as follows: Scholarship recipients will be chosen with no regard to age or sex, but must be a Houston Area high school graduate. The recipient will demonstrate an interest in contributing to the community through participation in community service activities. Scholarship applicant must be a certified junior or senior student seeking an undergraduate degree in the field of education for Fall 2009/Spring 2010. Scholarship recipient must enroll for a minimum of 12 credit hours each semester of award.  Scholarship applicant must have and maintain a 3.0 grade point average. Scholarship applicant must be a United States citizen or permanent resident. Scholarship applicant may select to study at the University of Houston or the University of Houston Downtown. Priority should be given to the scholarship applicant with limited financial resources and limited access to scholarships and financial aid. 
    Completed application must be submitted on or before March 15, 2009.  Materials can be turned into the Scholarships and Financial Aid counter in the UH Welcome Center.  Students may also mail their materials to 31 E Cullen Building, Houston, TX 77204-2010--Attention: Scholarships-Woman's Club. 
    Rodeo Scholarships
    The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's educational program is a significant part of the Show's mission — benefiting youth, supporting education, and facilitating better agricultural practices through exhibitions and presentation. Because college is only a dream for so many students, the Show has made an extraordinary impact on the lives of countless young men and women in its quest to benefit the youth of Texas and support them through education. Please click the scholarship title above for more details and eligibility information.

    Scholarships for Transfers

    Thinking of transferring to UH? If you show promise through academics, leadership, and/or community involvement, you may qualify for one of these scholarships:

    Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship
    Amount: $1,200 ($600 per semester), not renewable
    Qualifications:
    Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society members who are transfer students and intend to pursue their first baccalaureate degree at the University of Houston
    Transfer Excellence Scholarship
    Amount: $1000 ($500 per semester), not renewable
    Qualifications:
    Available to 600 newly admitted Transfer students who meet ALL of the requirements. Applicants must hold a permanent residence card or be a U.S. Citizen, must enroll in 12 hours of classes at UH Main Campus, must have 42 transferable hours from a regionally accepted U.S. institution and must have a 3.00 GPA (on a 4.0 point scale).


    Out-of-State Students

    Want to pay in-state tuition—but you live out of state? You may be entitled to an out-of-state tuition waiver if you are a:

    • Nonresident of the state of Texas AND
    • Recipient of UH or individual college scholarships totaling more than $1,000 annually.

    The waiver allows you to pay tuition at the same rate as a Texas resident—a savings of thousands per semester. Waivers are limited, so we encourage you to apply as early as possible.