Discover ways to qualify for a tuition-free education and reduce your expenses. Achieve quality education at a more affordable cost through a wide range of scholarships opportunities and financial aid.
Scholarships at SAU function as financial awards, reducing tuition costs for eligible students. These merit-based opportunities recognize academic achievements and talents. Explore various scholarships to support your affordable educational journey.
Each undergraduate student earns a merit-based scholarship based on their GPA, granted to students based on exceptional academic achievements or other criteria. These recognize and reward students for excellent academics and help them achieve their academic goals.
| GPA | Scholarship |
|---|---|
| 4.0 | $24,000 |
| 3.75-3.99 | $22,000 |
| 3.0-3.749 | $20,000 |
| 2.5-2.99 | $18,000 |
St. Ambrose scholarships are awarded for fall and spring semesters only, and are renewable up to 120 credits of undergraduate study, which includes credits transferred to St. Ambrose from prior attendance. Scholarships are only awarded to students enrolled in full-time coursework (online courses are excluded) and combined total may not exceed cost of tuition.
| Minimum scholarship |
|---|
| $20,000* |
*Starting Fall 2026
St. Ambrose scholarships are awarded for fall and spring semesters only, and are renewable up to 120 credits of undergraduate study, which includes credits transferred to St. Ambrose from prior attendance. Scholarships are only awarded to students enrolled in full-time coursework (online courses are excluded) and combined total may not exceed cost of tuition.
SAU's Ambrose Advantage Grant offers a tuition-free education to eligible Iowans. This grant helps students achieve their educational goals and eliminate financial stress.
Explore the Ambrose Advantage Grant
SAU's Ambrose Pathway Grant offers an affordable way to reduce tuition for eligible out of state, non-Iowa residents with Pell Grants. This grant eases the financial burden and provides access to a high-quality education.
Every student transferring to St. Ambrose University is eligible for a $20,000 Transfer Student Scholarship, making it affordable for students to complete their degree at SAU. This scholarship is renewable and does not require a separate application, providing seamless assistance for each year of undergraduate studies.
This scholarship rewards the achievements of Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society members transferring from a community college. An inclusive initiative, all eligible students receive this recognition as they continue their academic journey at SAU.
SAU's Catholic Traditions Scholarship is for freshmen who embrace the Catholic faith or graduated from a Catholic school. This scholarship honors St. Ambrose University’s Catholic identity by supporting students who share this faith tradition.
The Catholic Traditions Scholarship
SAU's Faith Learning Justice Ministry Scholarship is bestowed upon students who actively engage in church and community service, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening their faith and fostering leadership in campus ministry.
Visit campus to qualify for our $1,000 Engagement Grant, which is given to first-year students who attend a campus visit, complete their FAFSA, and are admitted by May 1 or December 1.
The Fr. Welch Alumni Scholarship at St. Ambrose University is dedicated to supporting the children of SAU graduates. It provides financial assistance to eligible students, recognizing and celebrating the connections between generations of Ambrosian families.
SAU's Athletic Scholarships are tailored to individual sports programs and awarded at their discretion. They offer financial support for student-athletes and help lower overall cost of education. The amount varies based on the specific program.
These scholarships are awarded through auditions. These are automatically renewable, tied to maintaining good academic standing and active participation in the ensemble for your discipline (choir for voice students, band for instrumental students).
This scholarship presents an opportunity for aspiring artists to receive support for their studies in the visual arts. To be considered, students are typically required to submit a portfolio, showcasing their artistic prowess.
More about SAU's Art Scholarship
This scholarship provides exemplary performers, designers, and technicians an opportunity to receive financial support for their studies at St. Ambrose. Applicants prepare materials, including a monologue or work samples, to demonstrate their talent.
More about SAU's Theatre Scholarship
This scholarship is open to all returning music students, with a special preference for those engaged in band activities and piano playing. The award amount varies, providing flexible support to nurture your passion for music.
Returning music student scholarship
Available for juniors and seniors passionate about piano and vocal studies. The award amount varies, providing tailored support to students committed to the pursuit of excellence in piano and vocal performance.
Edith Yutt Scholarship information
All music majors are encouraged to apply. This scholarship recognizes and rewards progress and excellence in musicianship, as demonstrated through academic transcripts and a sincere commitment to the art of music.
Agnes Rose Malik Scholarship info
All theatre minors are encouraged to apply. This scholarship supports students with an interest in the theatre program whether that be technical or performance.
Open to DPT students, this scholarship is designed to alleviate financial burdens, allowing aspiring physical therapists to focus on their studies and clinical training.
This scholarship is open to both undergraduate and graduate accounting students with a 3.0+ GPA. Graduates of Catholic high schools, college juniors or seniors, or those engaged in student activities and Wellness and Recreation may receive preference.
Drexler Accounting Scholarship info
For full-time accounting majors, this needs-based scholarship is available to applicants with a 3.25 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale. Preference is given to applicants who identify as Hispanic and/or participate in athletics or student activities.
Frick Accounting Scholarship info
Based on financial need, this scholarship provides financial assistance for full-time accounting majors in pursuing academic goals. Recipients must have a 2.5 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale.
Shapley Accounting Scholarship info
Designed exclusively for full-time accounting students, this needs-based award recognizes academic excellence. If you maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, you could be eligible for this scholarship.
SAU's George Till Scholarship info
Open to both undergraduate and graduate accounting students, this needs-based scholarship provides financial support to several full-time accounting students each year. Recipients must have a 2.5 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale.
Van de Voorde Accounting Scholarship
The Wahl Accounting Scholarship is an opportunity for undergraduate accounting students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. This scholarship is available to full-time accounting majors with a preference for rising seniors in the department.
This scholarship is available to support those pursuing a Master's in Social Work. Two scholarships are awarded each year to students affiliated with or planning a career in social services within the Diocese of Davenport.
St. Vincent MSW Scholarships info
Tailored for MSW students, this needs-based fellowship offers a financial boost of $2,500. With only two fellowships available per year, it is an exclusive opportunity for individuals pursuing a Master of Social Work.
School of Social Work Fellowships
Tailored for MSW students, with only two scholarships available per year. Priority is given to first-generation college students and those from historically underrepresented groups.
MSW Empowerment Scholarship info
Tailored for first-year MPH students, this scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burden of graduate education. This is a valuable opportunity for those passionate about public health to save on the cost of their degree.
Open to declared Spanish minors and majors, this supports students taking Spanish classes abroad. This scholarship presents an opportunity for students to enrich their language skills and cultural understanding.
SAU's Foreign Language Scholarship
The Study Abroad Scholarship provides $1,000 to full tuition for study abroad experiences, where students learn about diverse cultures, gain valuable language skills, and broaden their academic horizons.
We accept scholarships from outside sources, and there are tons of options out there. Start by searching for scholarships with criteria that match your specific talents or background. Need help? Here are a few websites to begin researching your options: Fastweb, College Board Scholarship Search, Scholarships.com, Step 1 Scholarship Search, and the Peterson's Award Database.
"I really wanted to go to St. Ambrose, but another college offered me more in scholarships. My SAU admissions counselor worked to find more scholarships and work-study opportunities. SAU admission counselors want you to go here as much as you do."
–Erin Suhr '23, Business Management
Applying for scholarships at St. Ambrose University involves a two-step process. First, complete the general admissions application. Second, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to assess eligibility for need-based scholarships and financial aid. Some scholarships may also have unique application requirements, so check and fulfill those criteria to be considered. Completion of these steps ensures you'll be considered for various scholarship opportunities tailored to your academic achievements and financial needs.
SAU supports students across diverse academic programs by providing scholarships tailored to various fields of study. You should explore all available scholarships to discover opportunities aligned with your specific academic pursuits or passions.
Scholarships at SAU are awarded annually. Once you've been accepted, notifications are usually included in your comprehensive financial aid package. This details all the financial support you qualify for, including scholarships. Keep an eye on your acceptance materials and financial aid package to stay informed about the scholarships awarded for the upcoming academic year. If you have any questions, our admissions and financial aid teams are here to help.
Yes. Depending on your eligibility, academic achievements, and the specific criteria of each scholarship, you could be awarded multiple scholarships. Our scholarships cater to different talents, backgrounds, and academic pursuits. We believe in recognizing and supporting the unique strengths of each student. So, explore the scholarships available–you might find several that align with your academic journey and aspirations.
Yes, most scholarships at SAU can be combined with other financial aid. However, it's crucial to review the terms and conditions of each scholarship to ensure compatibility with other financial assistance. We want to provide you with a comprehensive, tailored financial aid package to maximize your resources and minimize financial burdens. Reach out to our financial aid experts at sfs@sau.edu if you have questions about combining scholarships and other forms of financial support.
Receiving credit for prior learning recognizes your existing knowledge and skills, expediting your degree journey.
Transfer credits honor your previous coursework and reduce the need to repeat coursework, fast-tracking your academic journey.
Discover benefits you qualify for and ease your transition to college with veteran/military benefits.
Join the buzzing community at St. Ambrose University. Discover a place where academics meet values, where passion meets purpose, and where you can make a real difference in the world. Explore your potential and let your Fighting Bee spirit soar.
