Merit Scholarships are available for qualifying new freshmen who are admitted to a degree-seeking program.
- First-year students may have up to 24 accepted college credit hours from another institution.
- Students who have earned more than 24 college credits in high school will still be considered for these awards.
- International students and students with previous baccalaureate degrees are NOT eligible.
The deadline for Fall 2026 first-time merit scholarship consideration is May 1.
First-time students who apply after this date will not be considered for merit scholarships as part of their admission application. If you have already been offered a merit scholarship, you may still accept your award.
First-time students from Mesa, Montrose, Delta, Garfield and Eagle counties and transfer students will remain eligible for consideration.
Scholarships Awarded at Time of Admissions
Students will automatically be awarded the following scholarships based on the highest cumulative GPA (weighted or unweighted) provided on their high school transcripts. No separate application is required.
|
Scholarship |
Annual Value |
Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Trustee | $7,500 | 3.90 GPA |
| Presidents | $5,000 | 3.50 GPA |
| Academic Achievement | $3,000 | 3.20 GPA |
A student's eligibility will automatically be reconsidered if their cumulative high school GPA improves after admission. Official updated transcripts must be sent directly from the high school to CMU.
Accepting Merit Scholarships
Students must accept merit scholarships in their financial aid award offer.
- Choose the academic year you will be attending
- Click the “Award Offer” tab and select your decision by clicking on "Take Action"
- Click “Submit”
Distinguished Scholar Award
The Distinguished Scholar Award is CMU's most prestigious renewable merit scholarship valued at full tuition for Colorado residents. It has a highly competitive selection process with a secondary application.