Merit-Based Scholarships: Eligibility, Deadline & How to Apply

The Santa Clara University Leavey School of Business is a premier institution nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, renowned for its commitment to ethics, innovation, and leadership. The school offers a range of merit-based scholarships designed to attract and support outstanding students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, professional promise, and leadership potential. These scholarships are a direct investment in students who will become the next generation of global business leaders.

For the 2025–2026 academic year, the application for these scholarships is integrated directly into the admission process for the MBA and EMBA programs. This guide will provide prospective students, including international applicants, with a complete overview of the Leavey School of Business merit-based scholarships, including the types of awards, eligibility criteria, the application process, and key benefits. You can be fully prepared to maximize this opportunity to fund your graduate education at a top-tier business school.

Most MBA and EMBA scholarship awards are merit-based and awarded at the time of admission. Exceptions like the Inclusive Excellence and the Women in Business Scholarships are awarded after the June 1 fall deadline for on-campus students beginning in Fall 2025.

The merit-based scholarships are applicable to the on-campus Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Executive MBA (EMBA) programs at Santa Clara University. These awards are designed to support high-achieving students in these specific graduate business programs.

Santa Clara Leavey School of Business Merit-Based Scholarship Awards

The Leavey School of Business Merit-Based Scholarships provide significant financial assistance to reduce the tuition cost for your graduate business degree. These awards recognize and reward your demonstrated academic excellence, professional accomplishments, and leadership capabilities.

The primary merit-based scholarships are awarded at the time of admission. The largest scholarships are typically awarded to applicants with GMAT or GRE scores at or above the average (630 GMAT, 308 GRE). The scholarship support is a direct award to help you fund your studies.

The scholarship support includes:

• A substantial tuition award, with a general range of $3,000 - $18,000.

• Additional named awards like the Dean’s Merit Scholarships, which range from $1,000 - $6,000.

• Financial support that allows you to focus on your academic and professional development.

Merit-Based Scholarship Amount

The financial awards are variable and based on the overall strength of your application. Strong test scores and professional experience are key factors.

Santa Clara Leavey School of Business Merit-Based Scholarship Benefits

Beyond the direct financial aid, receiving a merit scholarship from Leavey School of Business offers distinct advantages that enhance your educational experience and professional trajectory.

Eligibility for merit-based scholarships is determined by a holistic review of your application. The Admissions Committee seeks candidates who demonstrate strong academic credentials and the potential to contribute significantly to the classroom dynamic.

The application process is completed online through the official SCU admissions portal. Since scholarships are awarded at admission, your entire application serves as your scholarship application.

1. Submit Admission Application: Complete and submit your full application for the MBA or EMBA program.

2. Automatic Consideration: All applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships; no separate form is needed for most awards.

3. Admission Decision: The Admissions Committee reviews your application and makes an admission decision.

4. Scholarship Notification: If admitted, your merit scholarship award will be detailed in your official admission offer letter.

Application Timeline for Santa Clara Leavey School of Business Merit-Based Scholarships

The application timeline follows the university's admission deadlines. To be considered for all rounds of scholarship allocation, apply by the priority deadlines.

Santa Clara Leavey School of Business Merit-Based Scholarship Interview

If you are selected for an interview as part of the admission process, it is a key component of the holistic review.

• The interview is typically conducted online by a member of the admissions committee or an alumnus. It assesses your fit, goals, and communication skills.
• You will receive an invitation via email to schedule your interview after an initial review of your application.
• The interview will assess your leadership potential, professional experience, and how you can contribute to the Leavey community, all of which influence scholarship decisions.

MBA/EMBA Applicants.

You do not need a separate application for most merit-based scholarships. The decision is based on the strength of your admission application. These documents are crucial for scholarship consideration.

• Completed online application for the MBA or EMBA program.
• Official university transcripts and degree certificates.
• Professional resume detailing work experience.
• Letters of recommendation.
• GMAT or GRE scores (if applicable, and not requesting a waiver).
• Essays and personal statements.

FAQs about Santa Clara University Leavey School of Business Merit-Based Scholarships

Who is eligible for the Merit-Based Scholarships at Leavey School of Business?

All applicants to the on-campus MBA and EMBA programs are automatically considered. The strongest candidates have excellent academic records, professional experience, and demonstrate leadership potential.

What does the Merit-Based Scholarship cover?

It provides a partial tuition award, ranging from $3,000 to $18,000, which is directly applied to your student account to reduce the cost of your program.

Do I need to submit a separate application for the merit scholarship?

No. For most merit-based awards, you are automatically considered upon submission of your completed admission application. The Inclusive Excellence Scholarship requires a separate application upon admission.

Do I need work experience for the Merit-Based Scholarship?

While there is no strict minimum hour requirement, strong professional experience is a significant factor in the holistic review process and can strengthen your scholarship candidacy.