How to win Idaho scholarships
Idaho is an extremely unique state, so it’s no wonder you are a curious student seeking Idaho scholarships! From its mountainous landscape to its potato themed treats, there’s something for everyone in Idaho! In order to win Idaho scholarships, you should highlight these unique and amazing aspects of Idaho in your scholarship applications while simultaneously connecting with your own unique interests and passions!
Maybe you grew up in Idaho, hiking and spending time outdoors surrounded by mountains. Therefore, it’s not surprising that you were to pursue a career as a park ranger, in forest conservation or something in a related field! So make it known that Idaho inspired your future career and passion! Doing so will allow you to be a well-rounded candidate for Idaho scholarships. Idaho scholarship grantors are looking for students who will help better their state by receiving an education in Idaho! So, be sure to detail how much Idaho means to you!
Writing resources for acing Idaho scholarship essays
Many Idaho scholarships may have you write an essay about yourself. These scholarship essays can vary in length from 250 words up to 500 words. Therefore, make a point to read over our Scholarships360 ultimate guide to finding and winning scholarships to ensure you are well prepared to not only reply to these Idaho scholarships but also win them! Additionally, check out our guides on how to start a scholarship essay and how to end a scholarship essay to ensure your Idaho scholarship application is flawless.
Idaho student debt snapshot
According to the Department of Education, Idaho residents owe $7.2 billion in federal student loan debt with student borrowers owing $33,012 each on average (those numbers do not include private loans). 50%of these loan borrowers are under the age of 35. When looking for ways to fund your higher education journey, remember that scholarships allow you to take fewer loans. Be sure to apply for as many as you’re eligible. Keep on reading to learn more about top Idaho scholarships, as well as merit scholarships from colleges in Idaho!
Merit scholarships at Idaho colleges and universities
University of Idaho
- Eligibility: First year students who are admitted and have a 3.0+ GPA
- Amount: $1,000 up to $6,500
- Deadline: Admission to the University of Idaho
Lewis-Clark State College
- Eligibility: Must be an incoming first-year to LC State with a 3.0+ GPA. and a 20+ ACT score or 1020+ SAT score
- Amount: $1,000 up to $2,500
- Deadline: March 1
Idaho State University
- Eligibility: Must be entering ISU as a first-year student with a 3.0+ GPA. For Presidential tier, must have a 32+ ACT score or 1420+ SAT
- Amount: $1,000 up to $7,500
- Deadline: Fall = July 1, Spring = November 1
College of Idaho
- Eligibility: First-year students entering College of Idaho with a 3.23+ GPA
- Amount: $12,000 up to $22,000
- Deadline: Admission to the College of Idaho
Boise State University
- Eligibility: Must be an incoming student to Boise State University with a 3.2+ GPA
- Amount: $2,000 up to $2,500
- Deadline: Fall = February 15, Spring = October 1
Consider in-state tuition and tuition reciprocity
In-state tuition allows residents of a state to receive cheaper tuition for a college or university in their state. Additionally, many universities and colleges reserve scholarships and financial aid for in-state students, which helps reduce the cost of attending college for those who live there.
Here are a few well-known Idaho universities and their in-state vs out-of-state tuition costs:
- In-state tuition: $8,816
- Out-of-state tuition: $28,052
- In-state tuition: $8,356
- Out-of-state tuition: $27,466
- In-state tuition: $8,882
- Out-of-state tuition: $27,076
How do you get in-state tuition?
Being an Idaho resident can significantly reduce the cost of tuition for Idaho colleges and universities. In order to become a resident for tuition purposes in Idaho, you will have to continuously reside in Idaho for 12 months prior to the semester in which residency is sought. Additionally, you will need to provide proof of a physical presence in Idaho such as utility statements, rental agreements and documentation from an Idaho employer.
Does Idaho offer tuition reciprocity?
Yes, Idaho offers a tuition reciprocity program through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program. Under the WUE, undergraduate students from Idaho may enroll in participating institutions in other western states at a reduced tuition rate.
Idaho scholarship spotlight
Idaho Community Foundation scholarships
- Eligibility: There are several scholarships for students in eastern, northern, and southwest Idaho. Check the website for each scholarship’s eligibility requirements
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: Varies
Idaho Nursing and Health Professionals Scholarship Fund
- Eligibility: Students into an Idaho nursing or health professionals program. Demonstrate financial need. Preference given to students in the top third in academic ranking for their class
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: March 15
Mike Crapo Math and Science Scholarship Fund
- Eligibility: Idaho residents who are majoring in math or science enrolling as a first-year student at a school in Idaho with a 3.0+ GPA
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: March 15
Idaho Latino Scholarship Foundation
- Eligibility: Idaho residents of Hispanic/Latino descent. Must attend an Idaho institution. Must have a 2.5+ GPA. Demonstrate leadership in school, community and/or other service organizations that promote, enhance, or strengthen diversity
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: March 1
Idaho Opportunity Scholarship
- Eligibility: Must be an Idaho resident and have graduated from an Idaho high school with a 2.7+ GPA. Must attend one of the following institutions: Boise State University, Brigham Young University – Idaho, College of Idaho, College of Southern Idaho, College of Western Idaho, College of Eastern Idaho, Idaho State University, Lewis-Clark State College, North Idaho College, Northwest Nazarene University, University of Idaho, Western Governors University
- Amount: $3,500
- Deadline: March 1
Idaho Hispanic Business Association Richard G. Cortez Scholarship
- Eligibility: Idaho residents of Hispanic descent. Must enroll in at least 12 credit hours. Must have a 2.5+ GPA. Must demonstrate academic and extracurricular achievement
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: April 1
Idaho Governor’s Cup Scholarship for CTE
- Eligibility: Idaho residents who graduated or will graduate from an Idaho high school. Must have a 2.8+ GPA. Demonstrate volunteer work, community leadership, and public service
- Amount: $3,000
- Deadline: Mid-April
Idaho Associated General Contractors Education Foundation scholarship
- Eligibility: Idaho residents who are in their sophomore, junior, or senior year and studying a construction-related major. Must have a 2.8+ GPA
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: First week of May each year
Idaho Society of Certified Public Accountants scholarship
- Eligibility: Idaho residents who are majoring in accounting with a 2.75+ GPA. Must be attending an Idaho college or university as a junior or senior year undergraduate, or a graduate student
- Amount: $2,000 up to $2,500
- Deadline: Late May
American Indian College Fund Full Circle & Tribal College scholarships
- Eligibility: Any Native American U.S. citizen that is a member or descendant of a state or federally recognized tribe
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: May 31
Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for Adult Learners
- Eligibility: Idaho residents who are pursuing a certificate, associate’s degree, or first bachelor’s degree. Must be returning to college at least part-time. Must not have completed more than 2 classes in the last 24 months. Must have a 2.5+ GPA. Must attend an eligible institution (see website)
- Amount: $3,500
- Deadline: Fall = July 1, Spring = December 1, Summer = April 15
Additional Idaho resources
Scholarship Idaho
Scholarship Idaho is a common application for 8 state-sponsored Idaho scholarships.
Next Steps Idaho scholarships listing
Next Steps Idaho provides a database of Idaho scholarships, many of which are specific to certain cities and areas of study.
Idaho School Board Association Scholarships
Scholarships for family of Idaho School Board members.
FAFSA guide
On October 1st of every year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens nationwide. Idaho students should complete the FAFSA to be eligible for federal student aid as well as some scholarships.
Frequently asked questions about Idaho scholarships
Does Idaho offer free college?
Are there Idaho scholarships for certain fields of study?
Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
What type of scholarships does Idaho offer?
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