Meridian Scholarship

The Meridian Scholarship is the University’s highest academic honor and offers a distinctive undergraduate experience through the John Martinson Honors Program. The Meridian Scholarship is not only about strong grades or an impressive resume, but is for students with intellectual curiosity, genuine excitement about learning, and an interest in ideas that reaches beyond just their chosen field of study. This scholarship is for students who want to contribute to a community in which others can learn and grow alongside them.

Admitted first-year U.S. and international freshmen are eligible for consideration with a cumulative 3.5 high school GPA (4.0). Meridian Scholars receive four years of tuition, mandatory fees, room, and board. The Meridian Scholarship is offered only to new first-year freshmen enrolling for the fall term.

Application Process:
1. Apply to SIUE for Fall 2027.
2. Review the Meridian Scholarship Site.
3. Submit the Meridian Scholarship Application, including narrative responses.
4. Selected applicants will be invited to virtual interviews in January.
5. Finalists advance to Honors Scholarship Day at SIUE on February 5, where they will engage with faculty, staff, and current students as part of the final stage of the selection process.
6. Meridian Scholarship recipients will be announced in early February.

Priority Application Deadline: November 15
Final Application Deadline: December 1