High Point University (HPU) offers generous scholarships and grants to make higher education accessible for talented students across academics, leadership, athletics, performing arts, and service. By applying for admission, students are automatically considered for many awards — no separate application is needed for most scholarships. Below is a comprehensive guide with details on degree level, eligibility, benefits, nationality, subjects, and the application process for the academic year 2026.
High Point University (HPU), located in High Point, North Carolina, is a private liberal arts university recognized for its student-focused education, innovative teaching, and strong emphasis on values-based learning. Established in 1924, HPU offers over 60 undergraduate majors, graduate programs, and professional degrees across fields such as business, health sciences, education, communication, and the arts. The university is widely known for its modern campus facilities, small class sizes, and commitment to experiential learning that blends academics with leadership development, community service, and career readiness. HPU consistently ranks among the top regional universities in the South and has built a reputation for preparing students to thrive as global citizens and leaders.
Degree Level
All HPU scholarships are available for undergraduate students. These awards are designed primarily for first-year (freshman) applicants, although some programs (such as Honors, Fellows, and Bonner Leaders) allow continuing students to apply internally.
Available Subjects
HPU scholarships are available across all majors, with some discipline-specific opportunities:
- All majors:Eligible for Merit, Presidential, Honors, and Athletic awards.
- Fellows Programs: Business, Natural Sciences, Health Sciences, Leadership, Creative Arts, and more.
- Performing Arts Scholarships:Music, Theatre, and Dance majors.
- Marching Panther Scholarships: Open to all majors but tied to band participation.
- ROTC:Open to all majors with military training requirements.
Benefits
HPU awards range from partial funding to full tuition scholarships, depending on the program:
- Merit / Presidential Scholarships: $5,000 to full tuition
- Honors Scholars Program: $3,000 per year (renewable, stackable)
- Fellows Scholarships: $3,000 per year (discipline-specific, stackable)
- Scout Awards: $1,000 per year (Eagle Scout / Gold Award)
- Performing Arts Scholarships:$500–$2,000 per year (audition-based)
- Marching Panther Scholarships: $5,000 per year (band participants)
- Athletic Scholarships:Vary, including potential full tuition (NCAA Division I)
- ROTC Scholarships:Full tuition plus books and a monthly stipend
- Bonner Leader Program:Financial support plus leadership training and service opportunities
- shift_ed & First Generation Scholarships:Up to full tuition for eligible North Carolina students with financial need
Most awards are renewable annually, provided students meet GPA and program requirements.
Eligible Nationalities
- U.S. students:Eligible for all scholarships, including ROTC, Bonner, shift_ed, and First Generation awards.
- International students:Considered for merit scholarships, Fellows, Honors, Performing Arts, Marching Band, and athletics.
- ROTC and local need-based programs(shift_ed, First Generation) are limited to U.S. citizens/residents due to funding rules.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for HPU admissions scholarships, students should demonstrate one or more of the following:
- Strong academics:High school GPA, rigorous courses, and optional test scores.
- Leadership and service:Roles in school, community, or service projects.
- Special achievements:Eagle Scout or Girl Scout Gold Award recognition.
- Talent-based skills:Performing arts ability (music, theatre, dance, band) or athletic excellence.
- Service-learning commitment:Bonner Leaders, shift_ed, and First Generation Scholars require service and financial need.
- ROTC eligibility:U.S. citizens who meet academic, medical, and service standards for Army or Air Force ROTC.
Application Procedure
Key deadlines:
- November 15, 2025:Early Action Priority for most merit scholarships.
- January–February 2026:Fellows and Honors Scholars Program applications.
How to Apply?
- Apply for admission to High Point University (via Common App or HPU application). This automatically enters you into consideration for most merit scholarships.
- Meet deadlines: Apply by November 15, 2025 for Early Action priority.
- Complete supplemental applications:
- Fellows and Honors require essays and applications via PantherPage.
- Performing Arts and Marching Band scholarships require auditions or interviews.
- Athletic scholarships require coach recruitment.
- ROTC scholarships require application through Army/Air Force ROTC plus HPU admission.
- Bonner, shift_ed, and First Generation require FAFSA and additional documentation.
- Renew your award: Maintain GPA, program participation, and good standing.
- Apply here:High Point University Scholarships & Grants
Final Thoughts
High Point University scholarships not only reduce the cost of education but also create pathways for leadership, research, service, and talent development. From Merit and Presidential awards to discipline-specific Fellowships, performing arts, athletics, and ROTC, HPU ensures that every motivated student has an opportunity to thrive in the academic year 2026.
