Baylor Scholarships 2025/2026: Complete Guide for U.S. and International Students

Are you planning to attend Baylor University in 2025 or 2026? If yes, you’ll be happy to know that Baylor offers many scholarship opportunities for both U.S. and international students. These scholarships can help cover tuition, living expenses, books, and other school-related costs.

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Baylor scholarships—including types of scholarships, eligibility requirements, how to apply, deadlines, and tips to improve your chances of getting financial aid.

What Are Baylor Scholarships?

Baylor scholarships are financial aid programs provided by Baylor University to support students who demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, leadership, or community involvement. These awards may be:

• Merit-based (based on academic performance)

• Need-based (based on financial need)

• Departmental (based on your major or college)

• Special awards (for specific groups like international students, transfer students, or minorities)

Some scholarships are automatically awarded during the admission process, while others require a separate application.

Types of Baylor Scholarships Available in 2025/2026

1. Merit-Based Scholarships

These are awarded based on high school GPA, standardized test scores (optional for 2025/2026), leadership skills, and extracurricular involvement.

Examples include:

• President’s Gold Scholarship

• Provost’s Gold Scholarship

• Dean’s Gold Scholarship

Amounts can range from $12,000 to $23,000 per year, renewable for four years if you maintain the required GPA.

2. Need-Based Scholarships

If you have financial challenges, you may qualify for need-based aid. You must complete the FAFSA (for U.S. citizens) or the CSS Profile (for international students).

One major program is:

• Baylor Bear Foundation Grant

Award amounts vary depending on your family income, assets, and number of dependents.

3. Trailblazer Scholars Program

This award is for students who demonstrate a commitment to leadership, inclusion, diversity, and community impact.

• Award: Up to $5,000/year

• Application includes: Essays, resume, and nomination letter

• Deadline: Usually February 28

4. Baylor Benefit Scholarship

Designed for incoming freshmen whose family adjusted gross income is below $50,000.

• Covers: Full tuition (does not include housing, meals, or books)

• Requirements: FAFSA, CSS Profile, and goBAYLOR application

5. Transfer Student Scholarships

Students transferring to Baylor with strong GPAs are also eligible for scholarships.

• Awards range from $10,000 to $18,000 per year

• Extra $1,000 per year for Phi Theta Kappa members

6. Departmental Scholarships

Many academic departments offer their own scholarships. These are often based on GPA, involvement, or your program.

Examples:

• Business School Scholarships (via Hankamer School of Business)

• Mathematics Scholarships

• Music and Arts Scholarships

Check your specific department for deadlines and requirements.

7. International Student Scholarships

Baylor provides limited scholarships for international students.

• Most are merit-based and awarded during admission

• You should complete the CSS Profile for need-based consideration

International students are not eligible for FAFSA, so they should apply early for additional financial support.

How to Apply for Baylor Scholarships (2025/2026)

Step 1: Apply for Admission

Start by submitting your Baylor University admission application via go BAYLOR : https://admissions.web.baylor.edu/gobaylor or Common App. Some scholarships are auto-considered after admission.

Step 2: Submit FAFSA or CSS Profile

• FAFSA for U.S. citizens

• CSS Profile for international or undocumented students

Step 3: Log Into goBAYLOR Portal

This is where you’ll:

• Apply for need-based and special scholarships

• Submit supporting documents (resume, essays, letters, etc.)

Step 4: Check for Departmental Awards

Reach out to your academic department to ask about scholarships you may qualify for.

Step 5: Use Scholarship Universe

After admission, Baylor grants you access to Scholarship Universe—a tool that matches you with internal and external scholarship opportunities.

Key Deadlines to Remember

• Early Action Admission Deadline: November 1, 2025

• FAFSA & CSS Deadline: March 1, 2026

• Trailblazer & Other Programs: Varies (Usually February – March)

• Transfer Scholarship Deadline: May 1, 2026

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship

• Apply early (don’t wait for deadlines)

• Maintain a strong GPA in school

• Write a compelling personal essay

• Highlight your leadership and community service

• Get strong recommendation letters

• Complete both FAFSA and CSS Profile (if applicable)

• Frequently check your goBAYLOR and email for updates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get multiple Baylor scholarships?

Yes. You can combine some scholarships, but there are limits. Always check with the Financial Aid Office.

Is the SAT or ACT required?

For 2025/2026, Baylor is test-optional. Submitting scores may help you qualify for merit aid, but it’s not required.

Do I need to reapply every year?

Some scholarships are renewable automatically if you meet GPA and enrollment requirements. Others may require annual reapplication.

Conclusion

Baylor University offers many scholarship opportunities for new, current, transfer, and international students. From merit-based awards to need-based aid, there are multiple ways to fund your education.

If you’re applying for the 2025/2026 academic year, make sure you follow all instructions, submit the required documents on time, and actively search for both university and external scholarships.

Bookmark this page, check back for updates, and take charge of your financial future today.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Scholarship amounts, deadlines, and policies may change without notice. Always visit the official Baylor University Financial Aid page for the latest updates.