Pursuing a degree is a significant investment in your future. College isn't cheap, but luckily, at BYU-Idaho, you have access to several scholarships that can make the financial strain a little bit lighter.
BYU-Idaho's scholarships not only pay for tuition, but they also recognize your achievements, talents, and dedication. Let's jump in!
What Scholarships Do
Scholarships play a huge role in making higher education accessible and affordable. They can reduce or eliminate tuition costs so you can focus on your studies, participate in extracurricular activities, and campus life without the stress of financial burdens.
Scholarships often acknowledge and reward your hard work, talent, and commitment, and provide both financial support and motivation.
BYU-Idaho Scholarships
BYU-Idaho offers scholarships for students from diverse backgrounds. Here's an overview of the main scholarships:
Academic Scholarships
For current BYU-Idaho students, Academic Scholarships recognize academic excellence. Eligibility criteria include:
Being a campus student with at least 12 BYU-Idaho credit hours.
Having fewer than 120 credits and not having a bachelor's degree.
Maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher.
Starting with the 2025-2026 academic year, these scholarships will be automatically awarded based on GPA after the Winter Semester, so no separate application is required.
4-Year Merit Scholarships
For incoming freshmen, the 4-Year Merit Scholarship rewards high school academic achievement.
Automatic consideration upon admission; no separate application required.
Award tiers are based on high school GPA and standardized test scores.
Renewable for up to four years if you maintain a 3.75 GPA at BYU-Idaho.
If you improve your GPA at BYU-Idaho, you may qualify for increased scholarship amounts in future years.
Need-Based Scholarships
Also known as the BYU-Idaho Scholarship, this need-based financial aid is for students facing financial challenges. To apply:
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the applicable academic year.
Be a campus student without an earned bachelor's degree.
Have fewer than 120 cumulative credits.
Starting with the 2025-2026 academic year, only a FAFSA application is required; no separate documentation is needed.
Talent Scholarships
BYU-Idaho has Talent Scholarships for students who excel in areas such as art, dance, music, theatre, and journalism. Application and eligibility differ depending on the department and scholarship. Here's how you can apply:
Contact the specific department for application procedures and deadlines.
Submit required materials, which may include portfolios or auditions.
Enroll in at least 6 credits and meet department requirements.
Award amounts vary and are based on the number of credits enrolled.
Returned Missionary Scholarships
For students returning from missionary service, BYU-Idaho offers a one-time $1,000 scholarship known as the Returned Missionary Scholarship. Here are the requirements:
Enrollment in the first semester at BYU-Idaho following missionary service.
Register for at least 6 credits.
Mission service information must be recorded in the student's university records.
The scholarship is automatically awarded upon enrollment if all criteria are met.
Staying on Top of Your Grades: Why It Matters for Scholarships
While college life is full of new experiences, it's important not to let your academics fall to the wayside, especially if you're relying on scholarships. Many scholarships from BYU-Idaho and other organizations require students to maintain a certain GPA. Falling below that threshold, even by a small margin, could mean losing essential financial support.
The good news? Living at Cedars Housing can help you stay focused. Our peaceful, study-friendly environment makes it easier to manage your time and stay focused on your academic goals. Whether you're hitting the books in your room or using the shared study spaces, Cedars is a great place to keep your grades on track.
We're Here for You: Support for BYU-Idaho Students
New to Rexburg? Have questions about registering for classes, finding the best local eateries, or navigating your first semester at BYU-Idaho? Cedars Housing is more than just a place to stay—we're a community that supports your college journey. Our team is familiar with campus life and the ins and outs of Rexburg, and we're always happy to help answer your questions or point you in the right direction. Whether you're curious about student resources, local events, or simply need advice on balancing school and social life, Cedars is here to support you every step of the way!
