First Year Student Scholarships
Capital University provides a range of scholarships to support first-year students. Whether they are merit- or need-based, our scholarships are an investment in your future success.
Our scholarships are designed to support you throughout your college experience. Explore each opportunity to see how Capital recognizes your achievements and unique talents, helping you build a brighter future.
Capital Merit Scholarships
These renewable awards are for students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree who demonstrate academic achievement. Students with a 2.5 weighted GPA or higher are automatically considered for a Capital Merit Scholarship. Students are eligible to receive one scholarship from the Capital Merit Scholarships listed below. Merit scholarships are renewable for up to eight semesters, provided students meet the University’s scholarship renewal requirements.
1830 Award
Minimum 2.5 GPA | $20,000 per year | $80,000 over four years
Founders Scholarship
Minimum 3.0 GPA | $23,000 per year | $92,000 over four years
Deans Scholarship
Minimum 3.2 GPA | $25,000 per year | $100,000 over four years
Trustees Scholarship
Minimum 3.5 GPA | $28,000 per year | $112,000 over four years
Provost Scholarship
Minimum 3.8 GPA | $29,000 per year | $116,000 over four years
Presidential Scholarship
Minimum 4.0 GPA | $30,000 per year | $120,000 over four years
Comet Community Award
Residential students | $5,000 per year | $20,000 over four years
This renewable award helps make the residential experience more affordable and is applied to on-campus housing costs.
Capital Gateway Scholarship
Minimum 3.5 GPA | Up to full tuition and fees | Ohio residents
The Capital Gateway Scholarship will bring your total award up to full tuition and fees after other qualifying scholarships, awards, and grants are applied. Available to current Ohio high school seniors with an annual household income of $60,000 or less who complete the FAFSA annually.
Merit Based Scholarships & Competitions
First-year students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships from $5,500 up to full tuition, room, and board. Capital University is committed to recognizing your hard work and investing in your success through various financial awards. Awards are renewable for students maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress with a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average and any other award specific requirements detailed below.
Name | Amount | Criteria to Qualify |
National Merit Scholarship Program | Up to Full Room & Board | National Merit Scholarship students who attend Capital full-time and live on campus. Must be named a finalist or semifinalist. |
ROTC | Up to Full Tuition, Room & Board | Awarded based on merit, leadership, and physical aptitude. |
Conservatory Performance Award | Up to $5,500 per year | Audition-based award for full-time Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Arts in Music majors. |
Music Composition Scholarship | Up to $3,500 per year | Based on composition portfolio and evaluation for full-time Conservatory of Music composition majors. |
Special Awards
Capital University offers special awards tailored to recognize unique qualifications and backgrounds. These scholarships provide additional support for students, whether through full tuition, grants, or room and board assistance. Take a look at the table below to explore how these awards can help make your college experience more affordable. Awards are renewable for students maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress with a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average and any other award specific requirements detailed below.
Name | Amount | Criteria to Qualify |
Sibling Award | $1,000 toward Tuition | Sibling enrolled must also be a full-time traditional undergraduate at Capital. |
Lutheran Heritage Grant | $1,000 toward Tuition | 2.0 GPA or higher, child of Lutheran pastor, or identify as a member of a Lutheran Congregational Church. |
Partners in Education | Match up to $500 toward Tuition | Your congregation has its own criteria and award amount. Capital University matches funds up to $500 contributed by Lutheran Congregations. |
Need-Based Grants
We’re just getting started when it comes to making college affordable. Need-based grants are also available for students who qualify through the FAFSA, and these grants are given in addition to your merit award. The best part? We’ll let you know quickly! Scholarship letters are sent out with acceptance packets, so apply early in your senior year to find out your award eligibility as soon as possible.
How to Apply for Scholarships
Applying for scholarships at Capital University is simple! By submitting your application for admission, you’ll be considered for Capital Merit Scholarships based on your academic achievements and eligibility. To maximize your financial aid package, make sure to complete the FAFSA for access to additional need-based aid.
To apply for Capital's Endowed Scholarships, complete your endowed scholarship application.
Questions?
For questions about scholarships or financial aid, contact our admissions counselors. We're here to help you explore the best options for funding your education.
Phone — call us at 614-236-6101 or toll free at 866-544-6175
Email — send your questions to admission@capital.edu