MURRAY, Ky. — Murray State University has introduced the new Opportunity Scholarship for entering Fall 2021 freshmen students as part of its current Academic Achievement Scholarships, furthering its reputation as one of America’s best college values, according to a news release.
The Opportunity Scholarship is a $1,000 annual award given to entering freshmen and does not require an ACT/SAT test score in order to receive. Recipients must hold a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Murray State is ACT and SAT test-optional as a GPA of 3.0 or above guarantees admission for prospective undergraduate students.
This scholarship adds to the existing Academic Achievement Scholarships offered at Murray State, which range from 100% tuition covered plus an additional stipend, to the newly-created Opportunity Scholarship.
Academic Achievement Scholarships are awarded at the time of admission to the University. A student’s Academic Achievement Scholarship may be increased if official higher test scores are submitted to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions prior to the first day of classes for the fall semester. Awards are for up to four years at Murray State or until a bachelor’s degree is obtained (whichever occurs first). Recipients must meet GPA and academic progress requirements each year to renew. Academic Achievement Scholarships can be applied to direct costs, such as tuition, on-campus housing, meal plan and book charges.
“Access and affordability are vitally important to us as we assist our students and families during this difficult time,” said Murray State President Dr. Bob Jackson. “I am very excited about the new Opportunity Scholarship which will assist many incoming freshmen students for Fall 2021.”
In addition to Academic Achievement Scholarships, Murray State offers numerous competitive scholarships. Competitive scholarships require students to complete the Murray State General Scholarship Application and are awarded after the application deadline in February. Recipients must reapply each year.
Murray State’s scholarship application is now open. To learn more about scholarship opportunities and important deadlines, please visit murraystate.edu/scholarships.
Current and future students at Murray State are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), now open as of Oct. 1. A completed FAFSA is required in order to receive financial aid, such as a Pell Grant or other federal money. Individuals can apply at fafsa.ed.gov and use Murray State code 001977.
Based on the University’s most recent annual reports and data from 2019-20, Murray State awards $115 million in financial aid and scholarships each year, and has the highest percentage of undergraduate students who graduate with no known debt among all other public regional comprehensive institutions in Kentucky. Among this year’s freshman class, 89 percent received a scholarship or financial aid.
Recognized as one of America’s best college values, Murray State offers 145 academic programs, nearly 180 student organizations, and within the past several months, has received the following national accolades related to quality, value and student success:
“Top-Tier University” by U.S. News & World Report – 30 consecutive years
“Best Bang for the Buck” – Washington Monthly
“2020 Best College” – Money Magazine
“2021 Best Colleges in America” – Niche
“2021 Best College” – Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education
Students interested in joining the Racer Family can learn more, schedule a virtual or on-campus visit and apply for admission at admissions.murraystate.edu. Applicants can use RACERREADY by November 15, 2020 to have the one-time application fee waived.
About Murray State University: Since 1922, Murray State University has provided a collaborative, opportunity-rich living and learning community that fosters personal growth and professional success through a high-quality college experience. Students receive support from inspiring faculty and staff and will join a distinctive campus community — the Racer Family. With nearly 10,000 students, Murray State prepares the next generation of leaders to join more than 75,000 successful alumni who make a difference in their community, across the country and around the world. We are Racers. The University’s main campus is located in Murray, Kentucky, and includes five regional campuses in Ft. Campbell, Henderson, Hopkinsville, Madisonville and Paducah. To learn more about Murray State University, please visit murraystate.edu.