Scholarship FAQs

What kinds of scholarships does Fulton Schools offer?

Fulton offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships. Merit-based scholarships are based on academic performance, and/or other criteria such as leadership, involvement, intended major, and career goals. To be considered for need-based scholarships, students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). We recommend students file their FAFSA for the upcoming school year by ASU’s January 15 priority deadline.

When is the best time to apply for Fulton Schools scholarships?

The best time to conduct any kind of scholarship search is several months to a year before you plan to start. The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering scholarship application is open annually from November 1 until February 1. Awards are applied to the following academic year. Keep in mind that many scholarships are only awarded once a year, so missing the deadline means missing out until the next cycle. Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances.

When is the deadline to apply for Fulton Schools Scholarships?

The deadline for most Fulton Schools scholarships is February 1. Be sure to review posted deadlines for individual opportunities. Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances.

Can I apply for Fulton Schools Scholarships before my 2024-25 FAFSA is received by ASU?

Yes, students can apply for Fulton Schools Scholarships before their FAFSA is received by ASU. For 2024-25, ASU’s FAFSA priority date is March 1, 2024. To be considered for need-based scholarships, we highly encourage students to submit their 2024-25 FAFSA by this date. Eligible students who apply by this date have a greater chance of receiving need-based aid. For any questions regarding the FAFSA, please contact ASU Financial Aid.

Who should I contact if I am having trouble completing my 2024-25 FAFSA?

If you encounter challenges while completing the 2024-25 FAFSA, we recommend contacting Federal Student Aid directly for FAFSA assistance: 1-800-433-3243 (1-800-4 FED AID). You may also view common issues and troubleshooting solutions on the Federal Student Aid website.

Can international students apply for Fulton Schools Scholarships?

Yes, international students are eligible and encouraged to apply for Fulton scholarships. While some scholarships may have criteria that is not applicable to international students, such as Arizona residency or demonstrated financial need based on the FAFSA, these are not requirements for all scholarships and Fulton offers a wide range of scholarships with various requirements.

Is the ASU Scholarship Portal the same as the Fulton Schools application?

The ASU Scholarship Portal and Fulton Schools Scholarship Application are separate systems with distinct scholarship opportunities. The Fulton Schools Application includes opportunities open exclusively to our engineering majors, both current and incoming students. The ASU Scholarship Portal includes both internal and external opportunities available to all ASU students.  Criteria, application requirements and deadlines vary, though most deadlines for the upcoming academic year occur between January 1 and March 1. The best way to find available scholarships outside of engineering is to use the ASU Scholarship Portal.

What do most scholarship applications require?

Most scholarship applications will ask for a personal statement, which addresses your academic and career goals. There may be other essay questions related to academic accomplishments, involvement in extracurricular and leadership activities, and/or research interests. Some scholarships may ask you to submit a resume, references, or letters of recommendations.

What are the New American University (NAMU) Scholarships?

Arizona State University awards New American University merit scholarships to incoming first-year students.  Admitted students are automatically reviewed for merit scholarships through May 1, and awards may be renewable for up to 4 years (8 consecutive fall and spring semesters) provided students meet all criteria outlined in the Scholarship Renewal Guide.

What scholarships are available for transfer students?

Transfer students should apply for our General Scholarship Application by the February 1 deadline to be sure they are considered for all opportunities offered by Fulton Schools of Engineering.  Additional opportunities for Arizona Resident and Non-Resident Transfer students are available outside of Fulton.

How will I know if I am selected for a scholarship or not?

Scholarship awards are competitive, and selected students will be notified by the Engineering Scholarship Office via email. Students are notified of award decisions and Recipient Requirements in early April and May.  Due to the number of applications received, only those students who are selected will be notified (not all who apply).

Did you receive my application? I hit Save/Submit but received no confirmation

The Save/Submit button submits your application for consideration. However, your application will display as Work-In-Progress and you will be able to edit your essay responses up to the scholarship deadline. If you are satisfied with your application, no further action is needed on your part. As a reminder, incomplete applications will not be considered.

If I am selected for a scholarship, when should I expect my disbursement?

Students are typically notified of scholarship selection in April and May, and awards will begin to appear on accounts in June and July for the upcoming academic year. In most cases, Fulton Schools Scholarships are split evenly between fall and spring semesters. Scholarships apply to accounts about 5-7 business days before the start of classes. If you were awarded a scholarship, and do not see it on your account, please contact [email protected].

If a scholarship requires a 3.0 G.P.A. and I have a 2.9 or lower, can I still apply?

Most Fulton Schools scholarships require a 3.0 or better cumulative GPA for consideration. That said, some scholarships evaluated under the General Scholarship Application, require a 2.5 GPA. Review specific scholarship criteria carefully before deciding to apply, as only those applicants who meet minimum criteria will be considered. See our eligibility requirements for more information.

Will receiving a scholarship affect my financial aid?

Generally, a student’s financial aid package must be capped at total Cost of Attendance, which includes not only tuition and fees, but also standard allowances for room, board, books, and supplies. Going over Cost of Attendance (often referred to as an “overaward”) may result in changes to other aid, usually through a reduction in loans. However, other need-based forms of aid may also be reduced in line with program guidelines, including but not limited to Obama Scholar and College Attainment Grant funding. Other factors, such as changes in enrollment, may also impact aid eligibility. Contact Financial Aid and Scholarship Services with any questions related to your financial aid package.

Is community service, volunteering or involvement required for scholarships?

While not required, leadership roles and experience in these areas can distinguish you from other applicants. Not all scholarship committees will weigh this in the selection process, but most like to see applicants who demonstrate leadership and get involved in their campus or community. Having these experiences may give you an advantage over an equally-qualified candidate who does not get involved.

Should I expect to pay a fee when searching or applying for scholarships?

Legitimate scholarship sponsors do not require an application fee. Be suspicious if you are asked to provide personal information such as bank account numbers, credit card numbers, social security numbers. You should never have to spend money to get information about scholarships and loans. Exercise caution and educate yourself on common scholarship scams.

Can I defer my Fulton Engineering scholarship?

Unfortunately, we cannot defer Fulton Engineering scholarships because they are awarded on an annual basis.

Can I defer my merit scholarship?

In certain eligible circumstances, students may defer their ASU Merit Scholarship, including New American University Scholarships. The Scholarship Deferment Request Form outlines the process, criteria, and examples of eligible circumstances. The form and supporting documentation should be submitted at least 30 days in advance of the semester for which a deferment is requested. Please note, this policy applies to listed ASU Merit Scholarships only and does not apply to Fulton Schools or other ASU departmentally managed scholarships or external private scholarships.

I need a recommendation letter. Who should it come from?

While most Fulton Schools scholarships do not require a letter of recommendation, many scholarship providers request one as part of the scholarship application. Letters of recommendation share your positive qualities and provide insight into who you are as a potential recipient. You should always choose someone who knows you well and can attest to your skills and abilities. This can include an employer, an instructor or professor, volunteer coordinator, or an advisor. It is important that it comes from a professional, not a personal friend or family member.

Do you have any resources for writing my personal statement?

The Scholarship Success section of our website offers tips for a successful scholarship application. In addition our Scholarship Workshops offer additional guidance and information. Finally, University Writing Centers and Career Services can also be used for more formal feedback and support.

Do I need to be enrolled full-time to receive a scholarship?

In most cases, you must be enrolled as a full-time student to receive your scholarship. If you are unsure about the requirements for a particular scholarship, contact [email protected].