University of Dayton Donor-Funded Scholarships Overview
The University of Dayton offers substantial donor-funded scholarships as part of its commitment to making quality education accessible and affordable. These scholarships contribute to the impressive $230 million in financial aid awarded to students annually, creating valuable opportunities for both incoming and current students.
These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of alumni and friends of the University who want to ensure students have the same opportunities they experienced during their time at UD. Their support, including contributions to initiatives like the annual 1Day 1Dayton giving day, enables the University's nationally recognized tuition transparency plan.
Scholarship Opportunities for Incoming Students
For newly admitted students, the process is streamlined and automatic. Here's what you need to know:
No separate application required - Admitted students are automatically considered for all financial aid options, including donor-funded scholarships, as part of their transparent financial aid offer.
Award criteria - Scholarships are awarded based on demonstrated academic success, donor-stipulated criteria, and financial need based on the FAFSA.
Forever Flyer Grant - You may initially see this need-based grant on your financial aid offer. It often serves as a placeholder until you're matched with a specific donor-funded scholarship, typically happening in the summer before your first semester.
Notification process - If matched with a donor-funded scholarship, you'll receive an email from the Office of Financial Aid with instructions on how to log into Academic Works (UD's online scholarship platform) and how to thank your donor.
It's important to note that when you receive a donor-funded scholarship, it replaces the Forever Flyer Grant as part of your guaranteed net tuition.
How Current Students Can Apply
Current University of Dayton students can apply for donor-funded scholarships by following these four simple steps:
1. File the FAFSA
To be considered for need-based financial aid (including grants and loans), submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is a crucial step as many donor-funded scholarships are awarded based on financial need.
2. Sign in to the AcademicWorks Portal
Use your University of Dayton username and password to log in to AcademicWorks. Note that this tool works best on desktop computers or laptops rather than mobile devices.
3. Complete the General Application
After completing the application, verify that your status shows as "submitted." You can make edits or check your application status by logging back into the system at any time.
4. Automatic Matching with Eligible Opportunities
Once your application is complete, you'll be automatically matched with scholarship opportunities for which you're eligible. You'll only receive notification if you're awarded a scholarship, sent to your university email address. Most donor-funded scholarships are awarded in May/June after the spring academic term concludes.
Each academic year, you'll need to complete a new general application to be considered for scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AcademicWorks?
AcademicWorks provides a streamlined approach for students to apply for donor-funded scholarships at UD. The system simplifies the application process by matching information from your general application with data from your student record (such as major, hometown, and cumulative GPA). This automation eliminates the need for multiple individual applications and allows you to track your scholarship status and submit thank-you messages to donors electronically.
How is the General Application used?
All students seeking scholarships through AcademicWorks must complete the general application. This form collects information commonly requested by donors and requires you to agree to certain expectations associated with receiving a scholarship. The system combines this information with your official student record to determine your eligibility for various donor-funded scholarships.
Why don't I see any 'Opportunities' available?
All opportunities within the system are "Auto-Match," meaning you only need to complete the General Application to be automatically considered for scholarships you qualify for. This simplifies the process by eliminating the need to apply for multiple opportunities individually.
How and when will I know if I've been awarded a scholarship?
If selected for a donor-funded scholarship, you'll receive an email with information about the award. Most scholarships are awarded in May/June after the spring academic term ends. Each spring, you'll be notified to complete a new application for the upcoming academic year.
How can I receive a scholarship award?
All students are considered for scholarship opportunities through the generosity of donors. Since donors have various requirements that must be considered when awarding scholarships, and most scholarships are designated for undergraduate students based on financial need, completing the FAFSA is strongly encouraged for full consideration.
How can I thank my donor for their generosity?
If selected for a scholarship, you'll receive email instructions on how to complete a "Thank You" message to your donor. Expressing gratitude makes a significant difference and reinforces donors' commitment to the University of Dayton.
Contact Information
The Office of Financial Aid welcomes questions and maintains regular office hours:
In-person: Walk in Monday - Friday, 10am-4:30pm in St. Mary's Hall
By phone: 1-800-427-5029
Monday - Wednesday: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-4:30 p.m.
Thursday and Friday: 1-4:30 p.m.
By email: scholarships@udayton.edu
How to Get Started
To be eligible for these donor-funded scholarships, you must first apply to the University of Dayton. International students, including Nigerians, can find a comprehensive admission guide with detailed application instructions on our website.
For more information about applying to the University of Dayton as an international student, please visit the University of Dayton International Admission Guide:
University of Dayton International Admission Guide
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