Friends University, located in Wichita, Kansas, is renowned for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment. As a private Christian university, it offers a wide array of academic programs designed to help students achieve their educational and career goals.
One of the key aspects that make Friends University accessible and appealing to students from diverse backgrounds is its robust scholarship program. Friends University offers a variety of scholarships to meet the financial needs and recognize the achievements of its students.
These scholarships can be broadly categorised into merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, departmental scholarships, and special interest scholarships.This article explores the various scholarships offered by Friends University, detailing their types, eligibility criteria, and the application process.
Types of Scholarships at Friends University
Under this section, I will be giving you information regarding the varieties of scholarships awarded by the institution, some are awarded based on students academic excellence, financial need, athletic talents and diversity. The next section will give more information about that.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, leadership skills, and extracurricular involvement. These scholarships are highly competitive and aim to attract top-tier students to Friends University.p
1. Presidential Scholarship
This prestigious scholarship is awarded to incoming freshmen who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, leadership, and community service. Recipients of the Presidential Scholarship often have high GPAs and standardised test scores. The scholarship covers a significant portion of the tuition fees and is renewable for up to four years, provided the recipient maintains the required academic standards.
2.Dean’s Scholarship
The Dean’s Scholarship is awarded to students who exhibit strong academic performance and leadership potential. This scholarship provides substantial financial assistance and is also renewable for up to four years based on academic performance.
3.Trustee Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to students who have shown a high level of academic excellence and commitment to their community. The Trustee Scholarship offers financial support to help cover tuition costs and is renewable for up to four years.
Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based scholarships are aimed to assist students who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships help bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and what families can afford to pay.
1.Friends University Grant
This grant is awarded to students based on their financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The amount awarded varies depending on the student’s financial situation and is renewable each year upon re-evaluation of financial need.
2.Endowed Scholarships
Friends University offers several endowed scholarships funded by generous donors. These scholarships are awarded based on a combination of financial need and academic achievement. Each endowed scholarship has specific criteria set by the donor.
Departmental Scholarships
Departmental scholarships are offered by various academic departments within Friends University. These scholarships are awarded to students who excel in specific fields of study and are often based on both academic performance and faculty recommendations.
1. Fine Arts Scholarships
The Fine Arts Department offers scholarships to students pursuing degrees in music, theatre, and visual arts. These scholarships are awarded based on auditions, portfolio reviews, and academic performance.
2.Business Scholarships
The Business Department provides scholarships to students majoring in business-related fields. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and involvement in business-related extracurricular activities.
3.STEM Scholarships
Scholarships for students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields are available through the respective departments. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and potential in STEM disciplines.
Special Interest Scholarships
Special interest scholarships are awarded to students who have unique talents, backgrounds, or interests that align with the university’s values and mission.
1. Athletic Scholarships
Friends University is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and offers athletic scholarships to student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional skills in their respective sports. These scholarships are awarded by the athletic department based on talent and performance.
2. Faith-Based Scholarships
Friends University, being a Christian institution, offers scholarships to students who are actively involved in their faith communities. These scholarships recognize students who demonstrate a commitment to their faith and community service.
3. Diversity Scholarships
These scholarships are designed to promote diversity and inclusion within the Friends University community. They are awarded to students from underrepresented backgrounds who show academic promise and a commitment to promoting diversity.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for scholarships at Friends University vary depending on the type of scholarship. However, some general requirements include:
- Academic Excellence: Most scholarships require a strong academic record, including high GPA and standardised test scores.
- Leadership and Extracurricular Involvement: Demonstrated leadership skills and involvement in extracurricular activities are often considered.
- Financial Need: Need-based scholarships require the submission of the FAFSA to assess financial need.
- Specific Talent or Interest: Some scholarships require evidence of specific talents or interests, such as portfolios for art scholarships or audition tapes for music scholarships.
Friends University Scholarships Application Process
Applying for scholarships at Friends University involves several steps, some of which includes;
- Complete the Admissions Application: Students must first be enrolled to Friends University as some of the scholarships involved using the admission application documents as the initial application for many merit-based scholarships.
- Submit the FAFSA**: For need-based scholarships, students must complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for financial aid.
- Apply for Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships require separate applications, essays, or additional documentation. Students should check the specific requirements for each scholarship they are interested in.
- Attend Auditions or Interviews: For scholarships in areas such as fine arts or athletics, students may need to participate in auditions, portfolio reviews, or interviews.
- Meet Deadlines: It is crucial to adhere to all scholarship application deadlines to ensure consideration.
Conclusion
Friends University is committed to making education accessible to students from all backgrounds through its comprehensive scholarship program. By offering a range of merit-based, need-based, departmental, and special interest scholarships, the university ensures that talented and deserving students can pursue their academic goals without the burden of excessive financial stress.
Prospective students are encouraged to explore the various scholarship opportunities and apply early to maximise their chances of receiving financial aid. With the support of these scholarships, students can focus on their studies, develop their talents, and contribute to the Friends University community.