Freshman Academic Scholarships

Apply for Fall 2025 Freshman Scholarships:

  • Complete the Application for Admission and Scholarships before the deadline
  • Priority Application Deadline: December 15, 2024
  • Submit all documents/information (official test scores, transcripts, etc.) to determine admission eligibility
  • Awarding will begin October 1 and will continue until funding is exhausted
  • Awards are only made to students who are fully accepted for regular admission
  • Housing scholarships only apply to campus housing for students residing on campus
  • Scholarships are available for 8 regular semesters provided 12 credit hours are earned each regular semester and the specified GPA is maintained

Determining Eligibility:

  • 6-semester GPA on a 4.00 scale (at the end of junior year)
  • Minimum qualifying score earned by March 31, 2025 ACT/SAT test dates
  • Awards are only made to students who are fully accepted for regular admission

Fall 2025 Freshman Academic Scholarships

GPA Fees/Books Awards* Campus Housing* 1-Year Value
Presidential Award
ACT 30-36 / SAT 1360-1600
3.25+ $2,500 $2,000 $9,000
University Scholars Award
ACT 27-29 / SAT 1260-1350
3.50+ $2,250 $1,750 $8,000
3.25 – 3.49 $2,000 $1,750 $7,500
GPA Fees/Books Awards* Campus Housing* 1-Year Value
John McNeese Award
ACT 24-26 / SAT 1160-1250
3.5+ $1,750 $1,000 $5,500
3.25 – 3.49 $1,500 $1,000 $5,000
Academic Excellence Award
ACT 21-23 / SAT 1060-1150
3.5+ $1,000 $750 $3,500

*per semester

Other Freshman Scholarships Opportunities

H.C. Drew Scholarship

Eligibility:

  • 2.50 GPA or above
  • Enrollment in one of the following areas of study:
    • Agricultural Sciences
    • Biological Science
    • Business
    • Chemistry
    • Computer Science
    • Criminal Justice
    • Education
    • Engineering
    • Family Science
    • Nursing
    • Radiologic Sciences
    • Medical Laboratory Science
  • Southwest Louisiana Resident

Value: $250-$1,250/semester

Talent Award

Eligibility:

Proficiency in one of the following activities:

  • art
  • music performance (instrumental and voice)
  • band
  • debate
  • theatre
  • Cowgirl Kickers
  • cheerleading
  • rodeo

Proficiency is demonstrated through an audition or portfolio presentation. For more information, contact the appropriate department.

Value: Varies by area

McNeese Foundation Freshman Honor Award

Eligibility:

  • 2.50 GPA or above
  • Posses leadership quality

Value: $250 – $1,000/semester

Distinguished Achievement Award

Eligibility:

  • 2.50 GPA or above
  • Possess leadership characteristics, abilities or qualities

Value: $250 – $1,250/semester

Louisiana Lagniappe Scholarship

Eligibility:

  • 3.00 GPA or above

Value: $250 – $1,500/semester