University of Memphis International Freshman Merit Scholarships

About this scholarship

The University of Memphis International Freshman Merit Scholarships are competitive awards for newly admitted degree-seeking international students on J-1 or F-1 visas who take classes on campus. The international scholarship page explains that entering first-time applicants are reviewed through two pathways: GPA plus ACT/SAT evaluation and GPA-only evaluation. The official 2025-2026 out-of-state scholarship sheet lists annual awards from $5,000 to $14,000 for freshman merit tiers, including the Cecil C. Humphreys Presidential Scholarship at $14,000 per year, Provost at $12,000, Deans at $10,000, Academic Achievement Award at $7,000, and Trustee Award at $5,000. The award is partial funding because even the highest listed annual amount does not cover full tuition, housing, meals, books, health insurance, travel, and personal expenses. Scholarships are awarded from information submitted on the admission application; for priority consideration, freshmen should apply by December 1. Recipients must enroll in at least 12 credit hours per semester, maintain good academic standing, complete required service hours, and may receive only one first-time freshman scholarship.

Eligibility

• Apply as a newly admitted degree-seeking international freshman to the University of Memphis
• Hold or plan to hold F-1 or J-1 visa status
• Take classes on campus rather than only online
• Dual citizens and permanent residents are not eligible
• Continuing or currently enrolled students are not eligible
• Students receiving assistantships or other university funding are not eligible
• Scholarship review may use cumulative high school GPA and ACT or SAT scores, or GPA-only review
• Enroll in at least 12 credit hours per semester and maintain good academic standing for renewal