Scholarships 101
What are scholarships? Scholarships are funds for your full-time education that you don’t have to pay back after you graduate. The UO awards scholarships based on a holistic review of your application. You may also be eligible for outside scholarships.
Do I have to apply for scholarships? All incoming first-year applicants who apply for admission by the UO’s regular decision deadline of January 15 are automatically considered for scholarships. Applicants must meet the February 15 supporting document deadline.
The strongest applications tell a complete story about who you are, both inside and outside the classroom. Admission and scholarship decisions are based on a review that considers the full scope of your achievements, experiences, and potential.
As we review your application, we’ll look at factors including:
- The rigor of your coursework and academic preparation
- Your grades and academic progress over time
- Leadership, activities, employment, service, and other involvement
- Your personal statement and the experiences that have shaped you
- Optional letters of recommendation
- Optional test scores
Take advantage of every opportunity to showcase your accomplishments, ambitions, and perspective. In addition to automatic scholarships, we encourage you to apply for other scholarship programs such as Stamps, Duck Excellence, and Presidential scholarships.
Are there deadlines? Yes, and they are important. You must complete your UO application by the Regular Decision Deadline of January 15, and meet the February 15 document deadline, to be considered. For scholarships that require a separate application, deadlines vary but generally fall between November and April for awards that start in the following fall term.
Find Scholarships
Find scholarships, along with application deadlines and other important information.
Whether you’re an Oregon resident or non-resident, find UO and major-specific scholarships here.
Explore scholarships that may require a separate application or qualifying materials to help you fund your education as a Duck.
You may be eligible for special international student scholarships. Look through your options.
Explore UO departmental or interdisciplinary scholarships and those offered by outside organizations.
Departmental Scholarships
Several UO schools offer scholarships for incoming first-year students, and others offer awards starting sophomore year. See if the school(s) you’re considering offer first-year options and view their requirements.
Apply for UO Scholarships
Submit your application for admission to the University of Oregon, which includes automatic consideration for some scholarships.
You can find your UO Student ID number in your Status Portal within days of applying for admission. You’ll need this number to create an account on the UO Scholarship Dashboard.
3. Apply via the UO Scholarship Dashboard
Create an account on the UO Scholarship Dashboard using your UO Student ID and apply for any scholarships that require a separate application or need additional qualifying materials. You can apply for one or more scholarships, if available.
Scholarship Tips
Use these tips to strengthen your scholarship applications and stay on track.
Meet all deadlines
Missing a deadline, even by one day, can disqualify you. Use a calendar or planner to stay on track.
Start early
Give yourself plenty of time to gather scholarship application materials and complete each step. Rushed applications are often incomplete or sloppy.
Don’t ignore small awards
Smaller scholarships can add up over time. Many are also less competitive than larger ones.
Choose your recommenders carefully
Give your recommenders at least two weeks’ notice to write your letter—they might need you to provide additional information about you or the scholarship. Choose people who know you well and can speak to your strengths and resilience. Be sure to follow up to confirm they submitted your letter.
Write a strong application essay
Use the essay to highlight aspects of yourself not covered elsewhere in your application. Get help with grammar and spelling, but do your own writing—the committee wants to hear from you personally.
Showcase your achievements
Don’t feel shy about describing your accomplishments, including awards, leadership roles, and personal challenges. Don’t underestimate the value of work or family responsibilities you’ve taken on.
Contact Us
Questions? Reach out to us if you need additional information about scholarships, eligibility, or your application. Check our Scholarships FAQ first.