Paying for college is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to limit your options. Transylvania University scholarships help you turn your academic achievements, talents and goals into real financial support, so you can focus on what comes next. This information applies to first‑year students beginning their studies in Fall 2027.
At Transylvania, your scholarships are paired with opportunities that help you make the most of your investment:
- Personal mentorship: Your professors know you and help you reach your goals
- Real-world experience: Internships, research or study abroad are part of your journey
- Flexible academics: Explore multiple interests, add majors or minors and stay on track to graduate
- Lexington advantage: Access internships, employers and experiences in one of Kentucky’s most dynamic cities
You’re not just earning financial support—you’re stepping into a college experience designed to help you build a future with confidence.
Merit Scholarships That Recognize Your Hard Work
Your academic record can automatically earn you significant scholarship support. Here’s what you need to know upfront:
- 99% of students receive financial aid
- The average aid package is over $40,000
- Automatic Transylvania academic merit scholarships range from $25,000 to $34,000 per year
- Premier scholarships can include full tuition, fees and on campus meals & housing
Your real cost may be far lower than the published tuition. Get a personalized estimate in minutes:
When you apply to Transylvania, you’re considered for merit scholarships based on your weighted GPA and your ACT or SAT superscore. No separate application is required.
| Scholarship Range | High School GPA | ACT |
|---|---|---|
| $34,000 | 4.0 + | 30 |
| $32,000 | 4.0 | 28 |
| $30,000 | 3.9 | 25 |
| $28,000 | 3.6 | 23 |
| $25,000 | 3.0 | 21 |
Not on the grid?
That’s perfectly fine! At Transylvania University, we know students are more than just test scores. We’re looking for curious, driven and well‑rounded individuals who will add their unique talents and perspectives to our vibrant campus community. Our holistic admissions review considers your academic performance, leadership experiences, extracurricular involvement, community engagement, and overall potential — not just numbers. So don’t hesitate to apply!
Admitted students may qualify for one or more of the following scholarships. These options help ensure that your background and priorities are part of how your education is supported. They may not be combined with other merit scholarships to exceed Transylvania’s standard tuition and fee amount.
For more information on these scholarships, please contact the Office of Admissions at 859‑233‑8242.
First Generation Scholarship
The First Generation Scholarship of $3,000 per year ($12,000 over four years) is offered to students who are admitted for fall 2027 or later and who will be in the first generation of their family to complete a college degree. This scholarship can be combined with merit scholarships.
Legacy Scholarship
Students admitted for fall 2027 or later who have a parent, step‑parent, grandparent, step‑grandparent, sibling or step‑sibling that is considered a Transylvania alum will receive a renewable $3,000 scholarship ($12,000 over four years) that can be combined with merit scholarships. Siblings of current Transylvania students are also eligible.
Campus Visit Scholarship
Students who participate in an official campus visit prior to December 1, 2026 and are admitted for fall 2027 will receive a renewable $1,000 ($4,000 over four years) scholarship. This scholarship can be combined with other merit scholarships
Bluegrass Bound Scholarship
Students admitted for fall 2027 who are legal residents of US states other than Kentucky will receive a renewable $2,000 ($8,000 over four years) scholarship. This scholarship can be combined with other merit scholarships from Transylvania, but cannot be combined with merit- or need-based aid programs funded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Christian Church (Disciples Of Christ) Scholarship
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and Transylvania have been partners in education since 1865. As a result of this historic relationship, Transylvania is pleased to provide scholarships for DOC members to attend Transylvania.
Newly admitted students who indicate a DOC affiliation on their application for admission and provide verification of membership in a DOC congregation will be awarded a $3,000 scholarship per year ($12,000 over four years). The DOC scholarship is renewable annually provided the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. This scholarship can be combined with merit scholarships.
To confirm that your church is a member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), please use the Find a Congregation search tool on their website or talk to your pastor or board. Proof of membership is required in order to receive this scholarship. For more information, email studentlife@transy.edu.
Tuition Exchange
Family members of employees of the colleges and universities that belong to Tuition Exchange Inc. are eligible to apply for Tuition Exchange scholarships. Please visit Tuition Exchange’s website for more information.
Cardwell French Language Scholarship
The Douglas and Marilyn Cardwell French Language Scholarship provides up to $1,500 per year to support the study of French at Transy. Recipients of the scholarship must take at least one French class per year (French level 3 or above) and meet with the Director of Global and Intercultural Engagement once per term. Majoring or minoring in French is not required. Contact French Professor Brian Arganbright at barganbright@transy.edu for more information. This scholarship can be combined with merit scholarships.
Premier Scholarship Program
If you’re aiming for the top awards, the Premier Scholarship Program gives you the opportunity to compete for Transylvania’s most prestigious awards.
These scholarships go beyond academics. They recognize your leadership, initiative and potential to make an impact on campus and beyond.
| Premier Scholarship | Award |
|---|---|
| JGK III | Full tuition, fees, on‑campus housing and meals |
| Jennifer A. Moore Endowed Scholarship | Full tuition, fees, on‑campus housing and meals |
| William T. Young Scholarship | Full tuition and fees |
| Kenan Scholarship | Amounts begin at $35,000 per year |
Students eligible for these Premier Scholarships will be selected based on student‑provided application, essay, high school transcripts, resume or listing of extracurricular activities, letter(s) of recommendation and test scores (if provided). Students chosen to compete for these scholarship awards must apply by December 1 (Early Action Deadline #2) and will receive further communication about the process. They may not be combined with other merit scholarships to exceed Transylvania’s standard tuition and fee amount.
Transylvania Endowment Grants
Transylvania offers grants that are based on merit and financial need. If applicants are interested in these grants they will be required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Take the Next Step
Your scholarship opportunity is already within reach—now it’s time to claim it.
- Start your application to be considered for merit scholarships automatically
- Complete the FAFSA
- Connect with admissions to understand your full financial aid package
Your next step could be the one that makes everything possible.