University of Missouri to Revamp Merit Scholarship Criteria for Fall 2027

May 3, 2026 - 06:35

In a significant shift, the University of Missouri has announced plans to overhaul its merit scholarship program, set to take effect in the fall of 2027. The new approach will move away from the traditional GPA-based evaluation and instead emphasize a broader review process. This new system will take into account the rigor of incoming students' high school coursework, allowing for a more holistic assessment of academic achievement.

Officials believe this change will better recognize students who have challenged themselves with advanced classes, such as honors or Advanced Placement courses, even if their GPA may not reflect their full potential. The aim is to create a more equitable scholarship distribution that rewards hard work and dedication to academic excellence.

By focusing on the overall quality of a student’s education rather than solely on numerical grades, the University hopes to attract a diverse array of talented individuals who have demonstrated commitment and resilience throughout their high school careers.