Starting college is a big milestone, but it often comes with high costs. The Texas Tech University Freshman Presidential Undergraduate Scholarship helps outstanding students offset their expenses and recognizes their academic achievements.
This guide provides key information about the 2025 scholarship, including eligibility criteria, award amounts, benefits, application steps, and renewal requirements.
Understanding the Freshman Presidential Undergraduate Scholarship
The Freshman Presidential Undergraduate Scholarship, also known as the Presidential Merit Scholarship, is one of Texas Tech University’s top awards for high-achieving students. It aims to recognize and attract those who do well in their studies.
You don’t have to submit a separate application for this scholarship. If your academic record meets the requirements, you’ll be automatically considered when you apply to Texas Tech. You can retain the scholarship for up to four years, provided you maintain your grades.
If you live outside Texas, you’ll pay the same tuition as in-state students. This can save you thousands of dollars every year.
Key Highlights of the 2025 Scholarship
Key facts about the 2025 Freshman Presidential Scholarship:
- Type: Merit-based.
- Eligible Students: First-time, full-time freshmen.
- Award Amount: Ranges from $1,000 to $9,000 annually, depending on GPA and test scores.
- Renewable: Up to four years with certain GPA and credit hour requirements.
- Out-of-State Benefit: Recipients pay in-state tuition rates.
- Application Deadline: Admission to Texas Tech must be completed by April 1, 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship
To be eligible, you’ll need to meet certain academic and administrative requirements:
- First-Time Freshman Status
Applicants must be first-time college students enrolling directly after high school. Credits from AP, IB, CLEP, or dual enrollment do not affect eligibility. - Academic Performance
Scholarship amounts are based on your high school GPA and your SAT or ACT scores. If you apply without test scores, you’re still eligible; however, your award will be determined using different criteria. - Admission by Deadline
Make sure you’re admitted by April 1, 2025, so you’ll be considered for the scholarship. Meeting this deadline guarantees your application will be reviewed. - Renewal Standards
To keep your scholarship, you’ll need to maintain a certain GPA (depending on your award level) and complete at least 30 credit hours at Texas Tech each year. - Administrative Compliance
As part of the scholarship, you may need to update your student information, attend events with donors, or write thank-you notes. - Award Amounts for 2025
Award amounts depend on your high school GPA and SAT or ACT score. The 2025 award tiers are:
SAT 1500–1600 / ACT 34–36
- GPA 4.0–3.96 → $9,000/year
- GPA 3.95–3.86 → $8,000/year
- GPA 3.85–3.76 → $7,000/year
- GPA 3.75–3.66 → $5,500/year
- GPA 3.65–3.50 → $5,000/year
- GPA 3.49–3.0 → $4,000/year
SAT 1400–1490 / ACT 31–33
- GPA 4.0–3.96 → $8,000/year
- GPA 3.95–3.86 → $7,000/year
- GPA 3.85–3.76 → $6,000/year
- GPA 3.75–3.66 → $4,500/year
- GPA 3.65–3.50 → $4,000/year
- GPA 3.49–3.0 → $3,000/year
SAT 1300–1390 / ACT 28–30
- GPA 4.0–3.96 → $6,500/year
- GPA 3.95–3.86 → $5,500/year
- GPA 3.85–3.76 → $4,500/year
- GPA 3.75–3.66 → $3,000/year
- GPA 3.65–3.50 → $2,500/year
- GPA 3.49–3.0 → $1,500/year
SAT 1200–1290 / ACT 25–27
- GPA 4.0–3.96 → $5,000/year
- GPA 3.95–3.86 → $4,500/year
- GPA 3.85–3.76 → $3,500/year
- GPA 3.75–3.66 → $2,500/year
- GPA 3.65–3.50 → $2,000/year
- GPA 3.49–3.0 → $1,000/year
SAT 1100–1190 / ACT 22–24
- GPA 4.0–3.96 → $3,000/year
- GPA 3.95–3.86 → $2,500/year
- GPA 3.85–3.76 → $2,000/year
- GPA 3.75–3.66 → $1,500/year
- GPA 3.65–3.50 → $1,000/year
- GPA 3.49–3.0 → $500/year
Test-Optional Applicants
Applicants without SAT or ACT scores are considered based on class rank and GPA. The top 10% of students often receive higher awards, with some eligible for a $1,000 bonus.
National Merit Finalists
National Merit Finalists who select Texas Tech University as their first-choice institution can receive full coverage of the federally approved cost of attendance. This includes tuition, fees, housing, meal plans, books, transportation, and personal expenses.
Renewal Requirements
Renewal depends on meeting academic and enrollment requirements. Criteria include:
- Awards of $7,000–$9,000/year: Maintain a 3.5 GPA and complete at least 30 credit hours each year.
- Awards of $3,000–$6,500/year: Maintain a 3.25 GPA and complete 30 credit hours per year.
- Awards of $1,000–$2,500/year: Maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete 30 credit hours per year.
Renewal is reviewed annually. Failure to meet requirements may result in loss of the scholarship.
How to Apply for the 2025 Scholarship
You don’t need to submit a separate application for the Presidential Undergraduate Scholarship. Here’s how the process works:
- Apply for Admission to Texas Tech
You can apply via the ApplyTexas application or the Common App. - Submit Supporting Documents
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- Official high school transcripts.
- SAT or ACT scores (if submitting).
- Class rank information.
- For international students: proof of English proficiency, a passport copy, and other required documents.
- Meet the Deadline
Complete your admission process by April 1, 2025, to be considered for a guaranteed scholarship. - Check Your Award Notification
Scholarship decisions are communicated through the MyTech student portal. - Accept and Maintain Eligibility
If you are awarded the scholarship, please ensure that you follow the guidelines to maintain it throughout your time at Texas Tech.
Benefits Beyond the Award Amount
The Presidential Scholarship provides more than financial support. Here are some additional benefits:
- In-State Tuition for Non-Residents
Out-of-state students pay the same tuition as Texas residents, saving thousands each year. - Prestige and Recognition
Receiving a Presidential Scholarship highlights your dedication to academics and is a strong addition to your resume. - Long-Term Cost Savings
Over four years, this scholarship can help you save a significant amount on tuition and living expenses. - Motivation to Maintain Academic Excellence
The renewal requirements encourage you to stay focused on your studies throughout your college career.
Example Scenarios
Scenario 1:
A student from Oklahoma applies with an SAT score of 1480 and a GPA of 3.9. She is admitted before April 1, 2025. This qualifies her for a $7,000 annual scholarship, plus in-state tuition, saving her more than $12,000 annually.
A student from Oklahoma applies with an SAT score of 1480 and a GPA of 3.9. She is admitted before April 1, 2025. This qualifies her for a $7,000 annual scholarship, plus in-state tuition, saving her more than $12,000 annually.
Scenario 2:
An in-state student with an ACT score of 30 and a GPA of 3.8 is admitted in January 2025. He receives a $4,500 annual scholarship, which significantly reduces his tuition and helps cover additional college expenses.
An in-state student with an ACT score of 30 and a GPA of 3.8 is admitted in January 2025. He receives a $4,500 annual scholarship, which significantly reduces his tuition and helps cover additional college expenses.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
- Apply Early
Applying early can improve your chances of receiving the scholarship. - Aim for Top Scores
Higher test scores and GPA can lead to larger scholarship awards. - Consider Test-Optional Strategy
If your class rank is strong but your test scores are lower, consider applying without submitting test scores. - Stay Organized
Keep track of deadlines and plan to meet the GPA and credit hour requirements each year to maintain your scholarship.
Plan to meet GPA and credit hour requirements each year.
Why This Scholarship?
The Texas Tech University Freshman Presidential Undergraduate Scholarship not only helps you pay for college but also recognizes your hard work. If you’re from out of state, the in-state tuition benefit makes Texas Tech much more affordable. more affordable option.
With its prestige, financial support, and strong academic community, this scholarship is a great opportunity for many students.
Final Thoughts
If you are an academically strong high school senior planning to enroll at Texas Tech University in Fall 2025, consider the Freshman Presidential Undergraduate Scholarship. It offers awards from $1,000 to $9,000 annually, plus in-state tuition for out-of-state recipients.
To secure this scholarship:
- Apply to Texas Tech as early as possible.
- Maintain excellent grades and test scores.
- Complete your admission by April 1, 2025.
- Commit to meeting renewal requirements each year.
By following these steps, you position yourself for a financially supported and academically rewarding experience at Texas Tech University.