In-State Matching Merit Scholarship
Eligible students have their SPU tuition and fees matched to their state’s* flagship public university.
This is in addition to any scholarships, federal/state aid, or loans you receive from outside sources, or through filing the FAFSA. (Haven't filed the FAFSA yet? Do that as soon as possible here to ensure you're receiving the best aid possible.)
*Estimated 2024-2025 amounts (amounts will be revised once actual rates are determined):
Who is eligible?
The In-State Matching Merit Scholarship is offered to students who meet the following qualifications:
- Applying to SPU as a domestic freshman student
- Resident of Washington, California, Hawai’i, or Oregon
- A 3.7-3.99 GPA (unweighted) and test scores (SAT 1270+ or ACT 27+), or a 3.9-4.0 GPA (unweighted)
Value: SPU vs. public institution
Here are some of our important features you likely won’t find at public universities. (Expand each item for details.)
Public university
Seattle Pacific University
Public universities often rely on grad students to teach classes.
At SPU your classes will always be taught by professors who are
expert scholars and researchers in their fields.
Public university
Seattle Pacific University
Other schools might not offer a full breadth of classes outside your major.
At SPU, you will gain a host of skills alongside your major studies.
That’s why many employers look to hire graduates with liberal arts educations.
Public university
Seattle Pacific University
Many state schools make students wait one to two years to apply for their desired major program —
and even then, they might not get in!
SPU offers direct admission to majors, so you know from the beginning that you can
pursue your calling.
Public university
Seattle Pacific University
Only 33.3% of students at public colleges and universities graduate in four years.
On average, SPU students graduate in 3.9 years. This saves time — and money.
Public university
Seattle Pacific University
Many state schools don't have the capacity to involve undergraduate students in research.
At SPU, undergraduate students are involved in cutting-edge research early on —
invaluable experience for future employment and grad school options.
Public university
Seattle Pacific University
Many public university classrooms are closed to faith discussion.
At SPU, we know faith connects to every discipline. Faith conversations happen inside and outside the classroom,
fostering a deep-thinking, supportive community.
FAQ
Does this award affect my federal and/or state aid?
Qualifying students will receive federal and state aid in addition to the SPU Matching Scholar Award
Will the award amounts stated change if public tuition/fees go up before next fall?
If tuition and fees increase at your state's public school before next fall, SPU will not decrease your In-state Matching Scholar Award. We commit to giving you the total gift aid initially promised.
What is the eligibility for renewing the award?
Students must meet the same renewal criteria of other scholar awards by maintaining a 2.0 GPA and completing 70% of all attempted credits.
Will the award amount change in future years if tuition costs rise?
Yes, if the state schools and SPU increase tuition and fees, the scholarship amount will adjust to ensure that qualifying students’ SPU tuition is matched to their state school.
What if the public institution gave me a scholarship, or has an out-of-pocket cost less than its posted tuition when my financial aid is added in? Will SPU match that?
SPU’s In-state Matching Scholar Award only applies to the public institutions posted tuition cost, and does not include financial aid from the public institution, nor individual out-of-pocket costs. However, please review closely the Estimated Payment Worksheet in your Financial Aid Packet. It’s highly likely that your out-of-pocket costs are comparable to the public school costs, especially when you consider direct admission into your major, time until graduation, the close network of support, and all the other valuable experiences SPU offers.
Also, please note that if you or your family has financial challenges as a result of a loss of income, job, or additional expenses, you can contact Student Financial Services; often there are options available to you.
Since you matched the costs of public schools, can you match the costs of other private schools?
Although SPU does not currently price match to other private schools, the In-state Matching Scholar Award will make your out-of-pocket costs at SPU significantly lower than the costs of many other private institutions. Also, please note that if you or your family has financial challenges as a result of a loss of income, job, or additional expenses, you can contact Student Financial Services; often there are options available to you.