First Year Undergraduate Scholarships
Chatham University, in an effort to recognize academic excellence, awards scholarships to deserving incoming full-time students. Many of these scholarships are funded by our various endowed scholarships. To qualify for a Chatham Scholarship, students must complete an admissions application, and in some cases interview or audition.
In addition, Chatham offers generous need-based financial aid. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to determine need-based aid. No other forms are required.
Please review Chatham University's merit scholarship policy here: Merit Scholarship Policy.
Merit Scholarship
Based on academic excellence, students may qualify for the Trustee, Dean’s, Founders’ or Chatham Scholarship. The scholarship amount will be determined once the student is admitted to the University. You do not need to submit a separate application for this scholarship.
Amounts:
Presidential: full tuition, room/board and fees**
Trustee: $14,000*
Dean's: $12,000*
Founders': $10,000*
Chatham: $8,000*
* Renewable Annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
1869 Academic Excellence Scholarship
The 1869 Academic Excellence Award recognizes not only outstanding academic achievements, but women’s leadership and community service. Selection for the scholarship is highly competitive; only 10 new scholarships are awarded each year.
Amount: $20,000 (replaces all other Chatham scholarships previously awarded)
Renewable Annually based on cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and a full-time enrollment.Priority Deadline: March 1
World Ready Women Scholarships
For students that display outstanding leadership qualities. Students should attend Chatham University’s World Ready Women Scholarship Day to qualify for the scholarship. Only accepted students are eligible to attend in this event. Participation must occur prior to the student's first term at Chatham University. Dates are posted on the Events page.
Amount: Up to $3,000
Renewable Annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and a full-time enrollmentVisual Arts Scholarship
For students that plan to major in visual arts at Chatham University. Based on completed visual arts scholarship application. Students must submit portfolio or work on CD (JPEG format), DVD, mini DV, via URL or as a printed image.
A limited number of scholarships will be awarded before the March 1 priority deadline. Scholarship applications received after March 1 will be considered only if funds are available.
Amount: $2,000
Renewable Annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full time enrollment.
Priority Deadline: March 1
Interior Architecture Scholarship
For students that plan to major in interior architecture at Chatham University. Based on completed interior architecture scholarship application. Students must submit portfolio (art or interiors work) or essay on why you want to study interior architecture at Chatham University.
A limited number of scholarships will be awarded before the March 1 priority deadline. Scholarship applications received after March 1 will be considered only if funds are available.
Amount: $2,000
Renewable Annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full time enrollment.Priority Deadline: March 1
AFS/YFU/Rotary International Scholarship
For students that have participated in American Field Service (AFS), Youth for Understanding (YFU), or Rotary abroad programs. To apply for this scholarship, please submit the completed application form, a letter of interest and an essay describing your intercultural experience. There are a limited number of scholarships available.
Amount: $2,500
Renewable Annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and a full-time enrollment.
Priority Deadline: March 1
Minna Kaufmann Ruud Music Scholarship**
For qualified vocalists that plan to major in music or incorporate music into an interdepartmental major while a student at Chatham; Participation in Chatham Choir is required. To apply for this scholarship, please submit the completed application form. Once we receive your application, you will be contacted to audition.
**Audition Required
Amount: $3,500 + weekly voice lessons with accompaniment
Renewable Annual re-audition
Girl Scout Gold Scholarship
Offered to Girl Scout Gold Award Recipients; must provide proof of membership and completed girl scout scholarship application.
Amount: $6,000
Renewable annually based on a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher, full-time enrollment and participation in Chatham’s community service activities.
Priority Deadline: March 1
Girl Scout Leadership Award
Offered to women who were members of Girl Scouts for a minimum of two years but not Gold Award recipients; must provide proof of membership and completed girls scout scholarship application.
Amount: $2,000
Renewable Annually based on a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher, full-time enrollment and participation in Chatham’s community service activities.
Priority Deadline: March 1
Legacy Award
Awarded to daughters and sisters of Chatham Alumni.
Amount: $2,000
Renewable Annually based on 2.0 cumulative GPA and full-time enrollment.
Rachel Carson Book Award
Recipient Information Online Form
For students that have been nomination by a designated high school official. The scholarship is awarded to high school juniors showing excellence in science and writing with an interest in environmental issues.
Amount: $1,000
Renewable Annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and a full-time enrollment.
Pennsylvania Governor’s Conference for Women Scholarship
This Scholarship is awarded to a Pennsylvania resident that displays strong academic performance, focused career goals, and dedication to community service and volunteerism. The student must also demonstrate financial need. To apply for this scholarship, please submit a letter of interest and a resume outlining your community service. An interview is also recommended.
Selection for the Pennsylvania Governor's Scholarship is highly competitive, only one scholarship is awarded each year.
Amount: $2,500
This scholarship is not renewable.
Deadline: March 1
Premier Academic Scholarships
The Premier Academic Scholarships recognize not only outstanding academic achievements, but also women’s leadership and community service. Selections for these scholarships are highly competitive.
- The Presidential Scholarship** is worth full tuition, room/board and fees for each academic year, for a total of four years (or 120 credits). Up to fie new scholarships are awarded each year. Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and full-time enrollment at Chatham University.
- The 1869 Academic Excellence Award** is worth $20,000 each academic year, for a total of four years (or 120 credits). Ten new scholarships are awarded each year. Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and full-time enrollment at Chatham University.
Both awards replace all other Chatham Scholarships previously awarded.
Priority Deadline: March 1
** Renewable Annually based on cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
