Dirigo Scholar Award

Description

  • Awarded to first-year students based on academic achievement, demonstrated leadership skills, or other criteria.
  • Annual Award:
    • In State $2,000
    • Out of State $10,000
  • First-year student merit scholarships are awarded up to 4 years with full-time enrollment (15 credit hours per semester recommended).
  • Students whose GPA falls between 3.0 – 3.49 at the time of admission could be eligible for this award.
    • The University of Southern Maine uses a 4.0 scale to determine scholarship eligibility. If a student's GPA is not on a 4.0 scale we will convert it using the specific schools profile.

Eligibility

  • Students must complete a USM application. Including the submission of their official high school transcript.
  • Students must take a minimum of 12 credits during Fall and Spring semesters.
  • Students who have already earned a bachelors degree by the time they start courses at USM are not eligible for merit scholarships.

Award Amount

Annual range $2,000 to $10,000

Deadline

April 1

How to Apply

All qualified incoming first-year students who complete a USM application — including your official high school transcript, letter of recommendation, and completed personal statement (essay) — will be automatically considered.

How to Renew

  • Maintain full-time enrollment (minimum 12 credits Fall and Spring semesters) and a 2.0 GPA.
  • Awards to first-year students can be used for a maximum of eight (8) semesters within a period of five (5) years, commencing with the term of initial enrollment.

Questions on renewal should be directed to Nancy Varin via email or call 207-780-5330.

Contact

Meghan Bradley
Associate Director of Admissions
207-780-5132
Disclaimer: Be sure to read the criteria for individual scholarships carefully. Most scholarships have enrollment and GPA requirements. Award amounts may vary each year and are subject to fund availability. As an NCAA Division III school, USM is prohibited from awarding scholarships based on athletic participation.
D15A, D15B