Quick facts
- Provider: Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Level: Undergraduate (first-year students)
- What it covers: Half tuition (effective starting with students entering Fall 2026)
- Deadline: 1 December
- Official page: https://www.bu.edu/admissions/tuition-aid/scholarships-financial-aid/first-year-merit/
About this scholarship
Boston University recognises exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and community service through its merit scholarship. The Presidential Scholarship rewards not only strong grades and academic performance, but also talent, initiative, creativity, and impact in school or community. It is given to first-year students from around the globe who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and who also excel beyond the classroom and are leaders in their schools and communities.
Who can apply
US citizens and permanent residents, and international students. Note for readers of older guides: Boston University’s current first-year merit page lists the Presidential Scholarship as its merit award — the older Trustee Scholarship is no longer listed there, so this draft does not present Trustee as an open award.
How to apply
- Complete your application for admission to Boston University.
- Submit the complete admission application by 1 December — Boston University states this is the only requirement to be considered for the Presidential Scholarship.
- There is no separate scholarship form mentioned on the official merit page.
Frequently asked questions
Can international students receive the Presidential Scholarship? Yes — international students are listed as eligible alongside US citizens and permanent residents.
What does it cover? Half tuition, effective starting with students entering Fall 2026.
Is there an extra essay or form? The official merit page states the only requirement is to complete your application for admission by 1 December.
Does it cover living costs? No — the official page describes the award as half tuition, not full cost of attendance.
Official link: Boston University first-year merit scholarships
Related scholarships
- Back to the USA Study Visa page
- See also USA jobs on AlfaCareers
- Clark University Presidential Scholarship
- P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship
- Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
- Rotary Peace Fellowship (master’s track)
Last verified: 27 October 2026. Deadlines must be re-checked on the official Boston University page before applying.