St. Olaf offers competitive scholarships that recognize achievement and potential for academic, artistic, service, and leadership success.
With the exception of the National Merit Scholarship program administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, merit scholarships are awarded on the basis of the application through the St. Olaf Admissions Office.
75%
of students receive a merit scholarship
98%
of 2024-25 first-year students received a St. Olaf scholarship or grant
Merit Scholarships
Eligibility for all academic scholarships is based on information provided in the Common Application, including test scores, high school transcripts, and letters of recommendation. A distinguishing feature of St. Olaf’s academic scholarship program is its emphasis on academic accomplishment in combination with other kinds of involvement and achievement.
Our academic merit scholarships range from $25,000 to $36,000. We acknowledge the differing grading practices and standards among high schools, we do not set minimum criteria for scholarship candidates and instead evaluate a student’s academic performance and potential on an individual basis.
Students who live on campus and are awarded a merit scholarship are also eligible to receive the $3,000 Campus Living Scholarship.
*The total value of all merit and fine arts scholarships cannot exceed $42,000, unless the family’s demonstrated need exceeds that amount.
Fine Arts Scholarships
Fine arts scholarships are awarded on the basis of the fine arts application, audition, interviews, or portfolio reviews by faculty members.
Fine Arts Scholarship Information for Students Entering in the 2025-26 Academic Year
Fine Arts Scholarship applications are due on the same timeline as your St. Olaf application for admission.
*The total value of all merit and fine arts scholarships cannot exceed $42,000, unless the family’s demonstrated need exceeds that amount.