How to win Delaware scholarships
To win Delaware scholarships, it is important to understand the state’s unique qualities and how they can work to your advantage to win Delaware scholarships. Delaware is known for its thriving business and finance sectors, which means there are many scholarships available for students pursuing degrees in business and finance fields. Delaware is also home to many non-profit organizations that offer scholarships to students who are committed to making a positive impact within their communities.
Students may also want to look into scholarships related to Delaware’s rich East Coast history, such as scholarships for students studying American history or the history of the Delaware Valley. Delaware’s proximity to major metropolitan areas such as New York City and Philadelphia also make it an ideal location for students interested in pursuing a career in urban planning or transportation. Do your research so you can add the little details that will make your application stand out!
Scholarship application resources for Delaware students
Lots of scholarship applications require essays, so prepare yourself before you start writing! Learn how to write an authentic essay about yourself as well as how to write a 250 word essay, how to write a 500 word essay and how to write a winning scholarship essay. Additionally, be sure to check out the ultimate guide to finding and winning scholarships to ensure you will find and win Delaware scholarships!
By researching the unique qualities of Delaware that make it a small but mighty state, students can increase their chances of finding scholarships that align with their interests and goals which can increase their chances of winning these Delaware scholarships!
Delaware student debt snapshot
According to the Department of Education, Delaware residents owe $4.8 billion in federal student loan debt, with student borrowers owing $37,559 on average (not including private loans). Over 53.1% of loan borrowers are under the age of 35. As you are starting your higher education journey, remember that scholarships allow students to take less loans. Make sure that you apply to as many as you qualify for!
Merit scholarships at Delaware colleges and universities
University of Delaware
- Eligibility: Residents of Delaware who are high school seniors and applying as first-years at University of Delaware. Must maintain a 3.0 GPA and take at least 12 credit hours per semester as well as complete the FAFSA
- Amount: $1,000 to $6,000 per year
- Deadline: Considered upon acceptance to University of Delaware
Delaware State University
- Eligibility: Delaware residents who are high school seniors entering Delaware State University as full-time, first-year students. Must have a 3.0+ GPA. Must have a 20+ or 1030+ SAT.
- Amount: Up to full cost of tuition
- Deadline: Considered upon acceptance to Delaware State University
Wilmington University
- Eligibility: Must be a student at or have been accepted to Wilmington University. Must have a 2.5+ GPA.
- Amount: Varies up to full cost of tuition
- Deadline: May 15 and November 1
Consider in-state tuition and tuition reciprocity
In-state tuition costs in Delaware can be significantly lower than the out-of-state tuition rate. Therefore, it is an extremely attractive option for students looking to save money on their education to pay in-state tuition costs.
Here are a few well-known Delaware universities and their in-state vs out-of-state tuition costs:
University of Delaware
- In-state tuition: $6,685
- Out-of-state tuition: $17,945
Delaware State University
- In-state tuition: $7,038
- Out-of-state tuition: $16,960
Wondering how to become a Delaware resident to take advantage of in-state tuition? In order to establish residency in Delaware for tuition purposes, students must demonstrate that they have lived in Delaware for at least one year prior to enrollment in a university. This can include providing documentation such as a Delaware driver’s license, voter registration, or lease agreement. Additionally, students must demonstrate that they have the intent to remain in Delaware after graduation. However, residency requirements vary depending on the college, so students should check with their school’s admissions office for specific requirements to receive in-state tuition as a Delaware resident.
Delaware is not a member of any tuition reciprocity agreements. However, Delaware does participate in the Regional Contract Program with neighboring states, including Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. This contract allows students pursuing professional health degrees from these states to attend the University of Delaware at in-state tuition rates.
Delaware scholarship spotlight
Charles L. Hebner memorial scholarship
- Eligibility: Delaware high school seniors with an unweighted GPA of at least 3.0. Must be enrolled as a full-time student in an undergraduate degree program
- Amount: $1,250 per year
- Deadline: During the third week of February each year
Delaware Community Foundation
- Eligibility: The Delaware Community Foundation offers a range of scholarships that are widely issued to students who meet certain eligibility requirements
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: Varies
Delaware SEED scholarship
- Eligibility: The Delaware SEED (Student Excellence Equals Degree) scholarship program helps Delaware residents attend Delaware Technical Community College
- Amount: Tuition, fees, and textbook costs are covered for up to two years
- Deadline: Varies
Additional Delaware resources
Delaware Higher Education Office (DHEO)
The DHEO offers resources and information on scholarships, grants and other financial aid opportunities available to Delaware students. They also provide assistance with completing the FAFSA and the Delaware higher education office application (DHEO) for state financial aid.
Delaware Student Success Website
This is a one-stop shopping website for students, parents, and teachers. It is run by the Delaware Department of Education and offers resources for students in middle school through college. There are step-by-step guides for the college application process as well as for finding and understanding funding for higher education.
FAFSA guide
On October 1st of every year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens nationwide. Delaware students should complete the FAFSA as soon as possible to be eligible for federal student aid as well as some scholarships.
Keep reading
It is a fact that scholarships are the best way to decrease tuition costs. Students can apply for scholarships that are specifically designed for their demographic. Women, high school seniors, and Black students can take advantage of specific scholarship opportunities. Some scholarships require essays and applications, but others are no-essay scholarships and easy application scholarships. Overall, Scholarships360 is here for students to help provide valuable resources and access to scholarships at every stage of their educational journey.
Frequently asked questions about Delaware scholarships
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Does the University of Delaware give full scholarships?
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