Introduction: University of Memphis Scholarships
University of Memphis scholarships are among the most accessible and rewarding financial aid opportunities available to students aiming to study in the United States. Whether you’re a domestic undergraduate or an international graduate applicant, the University of Memphis offers a wide range of scholarships that reduce the financial burden and recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Located in the heart of Tennessee, the University of Memphis (UofM) is a respected research institution known for its commitment to affordability and student support. If you’re looking for a fully funded or partially funded scholarship for the 2025 academic year, this in-depth guide will help you understand your options and how to apply successfully.
Why Choose the University of Memphis?
Before diving into the scholarships, it’s important to understand what makes UofM a top choice for students from around the world.
Key Highlights:
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Established: 1912
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Location: Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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Student Population: ~21,000 (including 1,000+ international students)
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Top Programs: Engineering, Business, Psychology, Nursing, Education
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Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
The University of Memphis stands out for its student-centric approach, affordable tuition rates, and robust scholarship offerings. With over $100 million in scholarships and financial aid awarded annually, UofM provides ample opportunities for students who qualify academically and meet specific eligibility criteria.
Net Worth of University of Memphis Scholarships
When evaluating scholarships, it’s helpful to understand their net worth—i.e., the total financial value a student can receive through tuition waivers, stipends, and additional benefits.
Estimated Scholarship Net Worth Ranges:
Scholarship Type | Net Worth (Annual) |
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International Merit Scholarship | $5,000 – $12,000 |
Presidential Scholarship | Full tuition + $5,000/year |
Provost’s Scholarship | $5,000 – $8,000 |
Graduate Assistantships | $10,000 – $18,000 + tuition |
Athletic Scholarships | Up to full cost of attendance |
Herff College of Engineering Awards | $3,000 – $15,000 |
The maximum net worth a student could receive through multiple scholarships and stipends could total up to $30,000 per year, depending on their qualifications and level of study.
Types of University of Memphis Scholarships
The University of Memphis offers a diverse range of scholarships categorized by level of study, citizenship, and academic performance. Here’s a complete overview:
1. Undergraduate Scholarships
A. Freshman Merit Scholarships (Domestic Students)
These are automatically awarded based on ACT/SAT scores and GPA.
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Presidential Scholarship:
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30+ ACT or 1360+ SAT
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3.5+ GPA
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Covers full tuition + $5,000/year stipend
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Renewable for 4 years
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Provost Scholarship:
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26–29 ACT or 1230–1350 SAT
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3.25+ GPA
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$5,000 – $8,000 annually
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B. Tiger Scholarship Manager Awards
This includes donor-funded awards for specific majors, community service, leadership, or financial need.
2. International Student Scholarships
A. International Merit Scholarship
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Eligibility: New undergraduate or graduate international students
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Award Amount: $5,000 – $12,000 per year
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Renewability: Yes, with GPA of 3.0+
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Application Requirement: Separate application + personal essay + transcripts
This is one of the most popular University of Memphis scholarships for international students because it dramatically reduces the out-of-state tuition difference.
3. Graduate Scholarships
A. Graduate Assistantships (GA/TA/RA)
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Includes: Tuition waiver + stipend of $10,000 – $18,000/year
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Eligibility: Enrolled full-time in a graduate program
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Types: Teaching Assistantship (TA), Research Assistantship (RA), Graduate Assistant (GA)
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Responsibilities: 10–20 hours of work/week in assigned department
B. Graduate Merit Scholarships
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Based on academic performance
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Awards range from $4,000 – $8,000/year
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Must maintain GPA and full-time enrollment
4. Athletic Scholarships
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Offered to students competing in NCAA Division I sports
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Covers: Full tuition, books, housing, and sometimes a monthly stipend
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Eligibility: Based on athletic performance and coach recommendation
5. Departmental and College-Based Scholarships
Many academic departments, like the Herff College of Engineering or Fogelman College of Business & Economics, offer specialized awards based on GPA, research interests, or community involvement.
How to Apply for University of Memphis Scholarships
Here’s a step-by-step guide to secure your University of Memphis scholarships 2025:
Step 1: Apply for Admission
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Submit your application via the official UofM admissions portal.
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Upload transcripts, test scores, and supporting documents.
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Pay the application fee (waivers may be available for eligible students).
Step 2: Scholarship Application
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Domestic students may automatically be considered for merit scholarships.
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International and graduate students must apply separately.
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Use Tiger Scholarship Manager to apply for internal scholarships.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
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Personal Statement or Essay
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Academic Transcripts (translated if international)
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Letters of Recommendation (especially for graduate scholarships)
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Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS scores if applicable)
Step 4: Track and Respond
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Log into your student portal to monitor application progress.
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Respond to any follow-up or interviews required for high-value awards.
Application Deadlines for 2025 Scholarships
Scholarship Type | Deadline (Approximate) |
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Undergraduate (Domestic) | December 1, 2024 |
International Freshmen | January 15, 2025 |
Graduate Assistantships | Varies by department (Feb–Apr) |
Tiger Scholarship Manager | February 1, 2025 |
Athletic Scholarships | Rolling, per NCAA timeline |
Always confirm specific deadlines for your program and nationality.
Tips to Maximize Your Scholarship Chances
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Apply Early – Many scholarships are limited and competitive.
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Craft a Strong Essay – Highlight your goals, leadership, and community service.
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Maintain High GPA – Academic excellence opens more opportunities.
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Engage in Extracurriculars – Especially for leadership-based awards.
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Consult Financial Aid Advisors – They can guide you to hidden or departmental scholarships.
Living and Studying in Memphis
Memphis offers a low cost of living, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal environment for international and domestic students alike.
Average Living Costs (Monthly):
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Housing: $500 – $800
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Food: $250 – $400
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Transport: $60 – $100
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Health Insurance: $75 – $150
With generous scholarships and assistantships, many students live comfortably while studying at UofM without incurring massive debt.
Alumni Success Stories
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Dr. Kimberly Johnson, a UofM graduate and scholarship recipient, now leads public health initiatives for the CDC.
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Ahmed Khan, an international graduate from Pakistan, earned a full GA award and now works in Silicon Valley as a data engineer.
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Jessica Owens, a former Presidential Scholar, completed her master’s in Political Science and now works with the United Nations.
These stories illustrate how University of Memphis scholarships provide not just financial relief but a launchpad for meaningful global careers.