First-Year Scholarships

Students must have applied for and been offered admission to SRU in order to be considered for any SRU scholarships.

At Slippery Rock University, we offer scholarships that are based on diverse criteria specific to each scholarship including academic record, talent, place of residence and major. SRU proudly awards approximately 2 million dollars in scholarships annually to the incoming freshman class.

  • Apply for admission by December 1st to automatically be considered for merit scholarships.  Students who apply for admission after December 1 will considered for scholarships if funds are available.  Eighty-six percent of SRU’s academic scholarships are awarded solely on information provided to the University during the admission and financial aid process. Please note that Slippery Rock University is now test-optional.
  • If you are in one of the following majors, be sure to complete the additional information for that department. 
    • Art - Complete the SRU Art Scholarship Application by January 17th for the highest consideration.  The final deadline is April 30.  Students will be asked to attach one page describing academic and art goals which should include accomplishments, activities and exhibitions which involve the arts.  Students will also be asked to attach a pdf portfolio of the six best art works in any medium.
    • Biology - Complete the SRU Biology Scholarship Application.  In order to be given full consideration, complete the application by December 15th.  Students will be asked to attach an essay of 250-300 words on the topic of either "My Most Significant Life Experience" or My Long-Range Professional and Personal Goals."  Two recommendations are also required for Biology students.  Students should ask the referral to upload their recommendation to this link.
    • Dance, Music and Theatre - Require auditions.  Please contact the academic department for further information.
  • Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at https://studentaid.gov. The FAFSA opens every year on October 1st. We encourage all students to complete the FAFSA in early fall. Some of the Slippery Rock University scholarships do include a need-based component.
  • Review other scholarships on this page on the links below.
  • Students interested in Athletic Scholarships must discuss scholarship opportunities with the team coach. Contact the Athletics Office for further information.