Freshman Academic Scholarships

Apply for Fall 2027 Freshman Scholarships:

Complete the Application for Admission and Scholarships before the deadline
Priority Application Deadline: December 15, 2027
Submit all documents/information (official test scores, transcripts, etc.) to determine admission eligibility
Awarding will begin on October 1, 2026 and will continue until funding is exhausted

Determining Eligibility:

6-semester GPA on a 4.00 scale (at the end of junior year)
Minimum qualifying score earned by May 1, 2027, ACT/SAT test dates
Awards are only made to students who are fully accepted for regular admission

Important Award Information & Policies

Scholarship Duration and Availability:

Scholarships are renewable for up to 8 consecutive regular semesters, provided students meet the renewal criteria.
Scholarship awarding will continue as long as funds remain available.

Housing Scholarships:

Housing scholarships apply only to on-campus housing.
Recipients must reside in university-managed housing to receive this award component.

Non-Stacking Policy:

Academic Scholarship offers do not stack.
If you qualify for multiple academic awards, you will be offered the single highest value scholarship for which you are eligible.

Award Notifications:

Initial offers begin October 1, 2027
Updates are considered if higher qualifying credentials are submitted before the May 1, 2027 deadline.

Fall 2027 Freshman Academic Scholarships

GPA	Fees/Books Awards*	Campus Housing*	1-Year Value
Presidential Award ACT 30-36 / SAT 1360-1600
3.25+	$2,500	$2,000	$9,000
University Scholars Award ACT 27-29 / SAT 1260-1350
3.50+	$2,250	$1,750	$8,000
3.25 – 3.49	$2,000	$1,750	$7,500

GPA	Fees/Books Awards*	Campus Housing*	1-Year Value
John McNeese Award ACT 24-26 / SAT 1160-1250
3.50+	$1,750	$1,000	$5,500
3.25 – 3.49	$1,500	$1,000	$5,000
Academic Excellence Award ACT 21-23 / SAT 1060-1150
3.50+	$1,000	$750	$3,500

*per semester

Other Freshman Scholarships Opportunities

To be considered for the H.C. Drew Award:

Complete the online application for admission.
Submit an academic resume or other relevant academic documents by the May 1, 2027 deadline to the Office of Scholarships at scholarshipdocs@mcneese.edu.
2.50 GPA or above
Enrollment in one of the following areas of study:
- Agricultural Sciences
- Biological Science
- Business
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Engineering
- Family Science
- Nursing
- Radiologic Sciences
- Medical Laboratory Science
Southwest Louisiana Resident

Are you passionate about the arts, performance, or competitive activities? Talent awards recognize incoming freshmen who demonstrate exceptional ability in the following areas:

Art
Music Performance (instrumental and voice)
Band
Debate
Theatre
Cowgirl Kickers
Cheerleading
Rodeo

Proficiency is demonstrated through an audition or portfolio presentation. For more information, contact the appropriate department.

Eligibility:

Applicants must showcase proficiency in at least one of the above disciplines. Talent is evaluated through an audition or portfolio presentation, depending on the area of interest.

Award Value:

Scholarship amounts vary by department and area of talent. Contact the relevant department for audition guidelines, portfolio requirements, and additional details.

To be considered for the Distinguished Achievement Award:

2.50 GPA or above
Possess leadership characteristics, abilities, or qualities
Complete the online application for admission
Submit an academic resume or other relevant academic documents by the May 1, 2027 deadline to the Office of Scholarships at scholarshipdocs@mcneese.edu

Value: $250 – $1,250/semester

Incoming freshmen who have taken advantage of McNeese’s Dual Enrollment Program may qualify for an additional scholarship opportunity.

Award Amount:

$1,000 total ($500 for Fall Semester and $500 for Spring Semester)

Eligibility Requirements:

Students must successfully complete 15 or more McNeese Dual Enrollment credit hours.
Students must maintain a minimum 3.00 GPA in dual enrollment courses.
Students must enroll full-time at McNeese for the fall semester immediately following high school graduation.
This award is contingent on the availability of funds and is offered in addition to other academic scholarships for McNeese students.