Awards and Scholarships

Mercyhurst University has been the recipient of hundreds of endowed scholarships given by alumni and friends. Endowed scholarships are available for both incoming and returning students. Many endowed scholarships have specific criteria for awarding, and some allow for students to complete an application.

These are awarded to applicants who demonstrate a high degree of academic ability. Named for one of Mercyhurst's transformational presidents, Herrmann scholarships are among our most prestigious awards, ranging to more than $20,000 for some students. High school GPA, SAT or ACT test scores, class rank, and high school coursework are considered in evaluating a student’s qualifications for this scholarship.  If a student qualifies for other merit-related scholarships (e.g. art, dance, music, band), his or her Herrmann Scholarship may be reduced. This scholarship is renewable for four years of study.  Herrmann Scholarships may be reduced if a student's GPA falls below 3.0; a student forfeits the award in full if his or her GPA falls below 2.5.

These are awarded to students who demonstrate academic promise and the potential to positively contribute to the university's community. This scholarship is renewable for four years of study, provided a student maintains a cumulative GPA of 2.5.

These are awarded on a need-basis to first-year students who need additional support to afford the higher costs of the freshman year (e.g. meal plan and housing requirements).  These awards are reduced by one-third each year and are renewable for up to four years of study. 

These are awarded by coaches to students who demonstrate substantial athletic prowess and potential. Applicants being actively recruited by an athletic team should discuss financial aid with the coach. Students must meet NCAA eligibility requirements to qualify for athletic aid. Note: only merit awards can be combined with an athletic scholarship.

These are awarded to students who show strong potential as a Mercyhurst University student, but are unable to afford the cost of tuition. These scholarships are central to our mission of ensuring that Mercyhurst remains an accessible choice for students. Admissions counselors award these scholarships on behalf of President Kathleen A. Getz. Completion of the FAFSA is required to be considered for this scholarship.

These are awarded by department faculty to music and dance applicants with exceptional dance (ballet-focused) and music (vocal or instrumental) skill. In addition to completing their application, students must also audition to be eligible for these awards. If a student qualifies for other merit-related scholarships (e.g. art, academic), his or her Performance Scholarship may be reduced.

These awards are available to students enrolling from a Catholic high school (Diocese award) or Mercy-sponsored, co-sponsored, or affiliated high school (Sisters award).

These awards are available to applicants who are dependents of a Mercyhurst alumnus or alumna. You must note this on your application for Mercyhurst to verify in order to qualify for this scholarship.

These awards are available for students who attended and completed the Western PA RYLA Conference and applied to Mercyhurst by March 1. In addition to applying, applicants should also submit a copy of their RYLA completion certificate to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. You must have at least a 3.5 cumulative high school GPA at the time of admissions.