Nestled between the towering peaks of the Wasatch Range and the sprawling red rock deserts of the south, Utah is a land of breathtaking contrasts and boundless opportunity. Students seeking to remain in this dynamic state for higher education can turn to Utah scholarships for help.
The innovation of Salt Lake City’s bustling tech hubs, the rich heritage of pioneer trails, and the serene vistas of Utah’s five national parks have inspired generations of students. But pursuing higher education isn’t cheap, even if you’re passionate about learning and giving back to the community.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the financial aid options for Utah students, including state-funded programs like the Opportunity Scholarship and university-specific awards at institutions like the University of Utah and Utah Tech University.
At Scholarship Institute, we understand that the cost of education can be a significant challenge for many students. That’s why we’ve carefully curated a comprehensive list of Utah scholarships to help you stay on track toward earning your degree in this beautiful state. Regardless of your grade level or demographic, there’s a scholarship to help turn your academic dreams into reality.
This article explores the top scholarships in Utah and offers actionable tips on how to apply for and win funding for your education amidst the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Beehive State.
Check out some other amazing scholarships on our Scholarship Institute scholarships page!

Understanding Utah Scholarships
Utah scholarships help tackle the average $6,764 college tuition cost for Utah’s in-state students. These scholarships can help cover the cost of attending school in Utah without the possibility of student debt after graduation.
There are many different types of Utah scholarships, but most will require solid grades and involvement in extracurriculars. Other types of scholarships, known as need-based scholarships, will take into account your financial need and determine award amounts according to each winner’s need.
Opportunity Scholarship
Administered by the Utah System of Higher Education, this merit-based scholarship encourages high school students to complete advanced courses in core subjects. Eligibility criteria include a minimum 3.3 GPA, completion of specific advanced courses, and submission of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The application for the class of 2025 opens on January 2, 2025, with a priority deadline of January 27, 2025, and a final deadline of March 21, 2025.
Utah Fits All Scholarship
This program, starting in the 2024-25 school year, provides up to $8,000 to Utah K-12 students through an education savings account. While primarily aimed at K-12 education, it’s essential to review the program details to understand its applicability.
Interested in going to the education field after graduation? Consider applying to these top scholarships for teachers!

BPW Utah Foundation Scholarship
The Business and Professional Women’s Utah Foundation (BPW) is a non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting and promoting women in business fields. This scholarship, however, is not specific to women or business majors. Instead, this award supports students aged 25 or older in furthering or completing their education. Last year, $35,000 was awarded in scholarships.
Utah Promise Grant
The Utah Promise Grant is a need-based financial aid program designed to encourage students in Utah to pursue higher education at public colleges and universities in the state. This grant provides funding to cover tuition and fees for eligible students who demonstrate financial need.
Scholarships for International Students
While most state-sponsored scholarships are dedicated mainly to American citizens, various universities in Utah offer robust financial support for international students on their campuses.
University of Utah – ISSS Scholarship
The ISSS Scholarship is available to international students who experience unexpected economic hardship. It provides financial aid in the form of tuition relief and can be thought of as an emergency fund available year-round to international students who have been at the University of Utah for at least a year.
Utah Tech University – International Merit Scholarship
The International Merit Scholarship provides $5,500 per year in tuition waivers to international students who demonstrate strong academic and extra-curricular potential. Students must have a minimum 3.3 GPA and have completed 24 credit hours before applying.
Brigham Young University – Russell M. Nelson Scholarship
At BYU, international students are eligible for all scholarship opportunities offered by the university. Of these opportunities, the most prestigious is the Russell M. Nelson scholarship. This Utah scholarship is valued at 150% of an entire four-year enrollment at BYU. This means that not only is tuition covered, but there are leftover funds for room, board, and textbooks.
Discover more international student scholarships right here!

Additional University-Specific Scholarships
Most universities offer multiple scholarships. Be sure to look at all the financial aid opportunities your college offers!
University of Utah
The University of Utah is one of Utah’s most prestigious higher education institutions. In line with its dedication to the student body, the university provides dozens of exclusive scholarship awards to make education more accessible for its undergraduate and graduate students.
- State Merit Scholarship: recognizes high-achieving students with a minimum 3.6 GPA.
- Utah Flagship Scholarship: assists those facing financial challenges.
- For Utah Scholarship: covers tuition and fees for Pell Grant-eligible Utah residents.
Utah Tech University
Utah Tech University (formerly Dixie State University) offers several scholarships to support its diverse student body. While we’ve already explored its international student options, Utah residents and out-of-state American citizens should absolutely apply for these top Utah Tech scholarships!
- Freshmen Academic Scholarship: rewards incoming freshmen based on their standardized test scores and GPA.
- Trailblazer Promise Scholarship: designed for students who demonstrate leadership and service.
- Opportunity Scholarship: supports students committed to academic success by providing funding based on a combination of need and merit.
Other institutions in Utah, such as Brigham Young University and Utah State University, also provide numerous scholarship options. BYU offers both academic and talent-based scholarships, while Utah State University features diverse scholarships for Native American and undocumented students.

Merit-Based and Field-Specific Scholarships
Utah Diesel Tech Scholarship
The Utah Diesel Tech scholarship is a hyper-specific scholarship awarded to students pursuing a career in diesel tech in Utah. They must be enrolled in a diesel tech program in college and commit to a career with one of the Utah Diesel Tech Pathways partner companies. The winner will receive $1,000 and career support from a network of highly-trained professionals.
Youthlinc Utah Young Humanitarian Award
This award recognizes Utah students who have demonstrated a commitment to humanitarian service. Utah-based humanitarian service is the core requirement of this scholarship. The grand prize is $7,500, with smaller amounts awarded to runner-ups and honorable mentions. Both high school students and college undergraduates are eligible to apply.
ACLU of Utah’s Youth Activist Scholarship
The American Civil Liberties Union of Utah awards $1,000 to three high school seniors who have demonstrated a strong commitment to civil liberties through activism. The application process is simple but comprehensive and requires a 1,000-word essay, two recommendations, and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Computer science is one of the most popular majors now. If you’re thinking about this field, consider these top computer science scholarships to minimize your student debt!

Additional Financial Aid Opportunities
Financing higher education can be challenging, but Utah students have access to numerous financial aid options that can significantly reduce the burden of college costs. Beyond scholarships and grants, students should explore other pathways to fund their education, ensuring they take full advantage of available resources.
Concurrent Enrollment
One popular option is concurrent enrollment, which allows high school students to earn college credits for certain high school courses. This program helps students save on tuition costs and enables them to graduate from college faster.
Participating in concurrent enrollment can be a strategic move for students looking to reduce their overall education expenses while gaining exposure to college-level coursework. Students should check with their high school counselors or local community colleges to learn about eligibility and enrollment procedures.
Support from Legal Guardians
Legal guardians play a crucial role in this process, especially for younger students. Guardians can assist by researching scholarships, ensuring the timely completion of applications, and helping navigate the financial aid process. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a critical first step, as it determines eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid.
Community Foundation Awards
Community foundation awards can provide supplementary funding for those seeking additional financial assistance. These awards are often region-specific, so you’ll be competing against fewer applicants. Resources like Utah state websites and local community organizations are excellent places to start. By proactively exploring these opportunities, students can create a comprehensive financial aid plan to support their educational goals.
Federal Student Aid and FAFSA
Utah students must complete the FAFSA to qualify for federal student aid and some scholarships. Almost all need-based scholarships will require timely completion of the FAFSA, so make sure to set aside time to fill it out as soon as it opens on October 1.
If you have a low expected family contribution on the FAFSA, definitely check out these need-based scholarships!

Scholarship Application Tips and Resources
Applying for scholarships can feel overwhelming, but utilizing the right tips and resources can make the process more manageable and significantly increase a student’s chances of success.
1. Write with a Guide
Here is a mini writing guide to get you started!
- Start with a compelling hook that reflects your passion or unique perspective.
- Clearly address the prompt, using specific examples to showcase your achievements and goals.
- Stay authentic and concise, maintaining a professional tone.
- Conclude with a memorable statement tying your aspirations to the scholarship’s mission.
You can find more comprehensive ones all over the internet, but we highly recommend Bold.org’s How To Write a Scholarship Essay for its thoroughness and clarity.
2. Edit and Proofread
Students should dedicate time to editing and proofreading to ensure their essays stand out. Resources like online grammar tools and feedback from teachers or mentors can help refine their work. Strong essays demonstrate a student’s qualifications, dedication, and effort.
3. Create a Timeline
A top tip for organizing all your scholarship applications is to create a timeline. Free apps like Google Calendar or even constructing your own in a physical planner can minimize stress and allow thoughtful, high-quality submissions. Don’t forget to leave plenty of time to gather necessary documents like an official transcript. Recommendations, in particular, may take a while to obtain, so approach your recommenders early on.
Got a high school diploma and are enrolled in college to get a bachelor’s degree? Look no further than our top scholarship for undergraduate students!

Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships in Utah
1. What Is the Lowest GPA Needed for a Scholarship?
The minimum cumulative unweighted GPA required for scholarships varies widely depending on the award. Some scholarships, such as need-based ones, may not have a GPA requirement, while others, like merit-based scholarships, typically require at least a 2.5 to 3.0 GPA. Check the specific scholarship criteria for exact requirements.
2. What Scholarships Are Easiest to Get?
Easier scholarships to obtain are often those with fewer eligibility requirements, such as no-essay scholarships or local scholarships offered by community organizations. These awards typically focus on simplicity and accessibility, making them great options for students who meet basic criteria.
3. How Can I Establish Residency in Utah?
To establish residency in Utah for tuition or scholarships, individuals typically need to live in the state for at least 12 months, demonstrate financial independence, and provide proof of Utah residency, such as a driver’s license or voter registration. Check with your institution for specific residency guidelines and requirements.