SAT Scholarships 2026: Eligibility, Scores & How to Apply

SAT scholarships are awarded to students who perform strongly on the SAT exam. Many countries, which include the USA, the UK, and Canada accept SAT scores and offer several funding opportunities to deserving candidates. These range from USD 2,500 To USD 28,000 per year, depending on the institution as well as applicant’s profile.

To become eligible for SAT scholarships, students should have a competitive score, which is usually 1300 or above.Let us learn more!

What Are SAT Scholarships?

These are financial awards provided to domestic as well as international students based on strong SAT performance, ‘ academic consistency as well as overall merit. While SAT scores play a pivotal role, universities also consider GPA, coursework difficulty, co-curricular activities as well as financial need before awarding SAT scholarship.

Sources of funding include universities, external organisations, country-specific programs as well as global educational bodies.

Types of SAT-Based Scholarships

1. Merit Based Scholarships: These are granted to high scorers with an excellent record.
2. National Merit Programs: These are often linked with PSAT performance, on an annual basis.
3. Need-Based Aid: Combined with the SAT performance along with family income assessment, these are provided.
4. Military-Linked Funding: Students from a military background are eligible for this funding.
5. Athletic Scholarships: These are for students who excel in sports along with academics.
6. Identity-Based Support: These are for students from underrepresented groups.

In case of some universities, students are considered automatically, while for others require FAFSA submission (USA) or a separate scholarship application.

Read More: SAT Exam

SAT Scholarship for Indian Students

The Indian Scholars Program, officially known as the College Board India Scholars Program , is the only SAT-linked scholarship initiative created exclusively for Indian students. The program supports academically strong students from lower-income families by reducing both testing and tuition costs.

Key Benefits of the Indian Scholars Program

The program offers two major forms of financial support:

1. SAT Fee Waiver: This is eligible for students in class XI or XII to receive around 90% reduction on the SAT registration fee, making the exam even more accessible.
2. Tuition Scholarships: Students who have scored 1300 or above on the SAT and also meet the income criteria, are eligible to receive merit-cum-need tuition scholarships at the participating Indian universities. Those from families earning below ₹8 lakhs annually can also qualify for full tuition waivers until graduation and also be recognized as top performers by SAT India.

Participating Universities under the Indian Scholars Program

1. Ahmedabad University
2. Ashoka University
3. Azim Premji University
4. BML Munjal University
5. FLAME University
6. Jagdish Sheth School of Management
7. Jain University
8. Krea University
9. Manipal Academy of Higher Education
10. O.P. Jindal Global University
11. Shiv Nadar University
12. SRM Institute of Science and Technology
13. Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology (TIET)
14. World University of Design

Read More: SAT Exam Pattern

Eligibility Criteria for the Indian Scholars Program

Note: The income criteria above apply only to Indian Scholars Program and not to scholarships offered directly by the US universities.

Merit-Based vs Need-Based SAT Scholarships

Important: Most US merit scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic achievement and the overall strength of an applicant’s profile. They generally do not impose a maximum family income limit. In contrast, need-based financial aid is awarded on the basis of demonstrated financial need and requires financial documentation.

How to Apply for the Indian Scholars Program?

1. Request an SAT Discount Voucher: As a part of registration, income- eligible students can apply for a fee waiver or discount.
2. Appear for SAT Exam: Aim for a score of 1300 or above to maximise your eligibility for scholarship.
3. Apply to Partner Universities: Submit your applications to universities participating in the program.
4. Indicate Scholarship Eligibility: Declare your eligibility for the Indian scholars program during the application process of university.
5. Final Selection by Universities: Universities will be able to shortlist candidates based on their SAT scores, financial need as well as overall academic profile.

List of Colleges Offering SAT Scholarships

Indian students who have a strong SAT score can unlock generous merit-based funding at several universities internationally. Awards which include merit-based scholarship at Colorado State University as well as Academic Excellence Award at Baylor University are offered on the basis of SAT performance as well as overall profile.

Read More: SAT Syllabus

Universities Offering SAT-Based Scholarships

Score-Based SAT Scholarships

SAT Score Range: 1000–1200 (2026 Deadlines)

Read Also: SAT Registration

SAT Score Range: 1401–1600 (2026 Deadlines)

Eligibility Criteria for SAT Scholarships

Documents Required for SAT Scholarships

Read More: SAT Eligibility

Tips for Securing SAT Exam Scholarships