SAT Scholarships 2026: Eligibility, Scores & How to Apply
SAT scholarships are awarded to students who perform strongly on the SAT exam. Many countries accept SAT scores, including the USA, UK, and Canada, and offer several funding opportunities to deserving international students. These range from USD 2,500 to USD 28,000 per year, depending on the institution and the applicant’s profile.
To be eligible for SAT scholarships, students generally need a competitive score, which is usually 1300 or above. While different universities have adopted test-optional policies, financial aid based on academic merit is still available in many cases. 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 and overall merit. While SAT scores play a significant role, universities also consider GPA, coursework difficulty, extracurricular activities, and financial need when awarding SAT scholarships.
Funding sources include universities, external organizations, country-specific programs, and global education bodies. Each scholarship type has distinct eligibility criteria and award structures.
Types of SAT-Based Scholarships
- Merit-Based Awards: Granted to high scorers with an excellent record.
- National Merit Programs: Often linked to PSAT performance, offering around USD 2,500 annually.
- Need-Based Aid: Combined SAT performance with family income assessment.
- Military-Linked Funding: For students from military backgrounds.
- Athletic Scholarships: For students excelling in sports alongside academics.
- Identity-Based Support: For students from underrepresented groups.
In some universities, students are automatically considered, while others require FAFSA submission (USA) or a separate scholarship application.
Read More:Â SAT Exam
SAT Scholarship for Indian Students
The Indian Scholars Program, officially known as College Board India Scholars Programs, is the only SAT-linked scholarship initiative created exclusively for Indian students. The program supports academically strong students from lower-income families by reducing the cost of both testing and tuition costs.
Key Benefits of the Indian Scholars Program
The program offers two major forms of financial support:
- SAT Fee Waiver: Eligible for Students studying in Class XI or XII are eligible to receive around 90% reduction on the SAT registration fee, making the exam more accessible.
- Tuition Scholarships: Students who score 1300 or above on the SAT and also meet the income criteria can receive merit-cum-need tuition scholarships at the participating Indian universities. Those from families earning below ₹8 lakhs annually can qualify for full tuition waivers until graduation and also be recognized as top performers by SAT India.
Participating Universities under the Indian Scholars Program
- Ahmedabad University
- Ashoka University
- Azim Premji University
- BML Munjal University
- FLAME University
- Jagdish Sheth School of Management
- Jain University
- Krea University
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education
- O.P. Jindal Global University
- Shiv Nadar University
- SRM Institute of Science and Technology
- Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology (TIET)
- World University of Design
Read More:Â SAT Exam Pattern
Eligibility Criteria for the Indian Scholars Program
| Eligibility Factor | Requirement |
| Nationality & Class | Indian resident enrolled in Class 11 or 12 |
| Annual Family Income | Up to ₹8 lakh for full benefits (partial aid up to ₹15 lakh) |
| Minimum SAT Score | 1300 out of 1600 |
| University Admission | Must secure admission to a participating university |
How to Apply for the Indian Scholars Program?
- Request a SAT Discount Voucher: While registering for the SAT, income-eligible students can apply for a fee waiver or discount.
- Appear for the SAT Exam: Aim for a score of 1300 or higher to maximise eligibility.
- Apply to Partner Universities: Submit the applications to universities participating in the program.
- Indicate Scholarship Eligibility: Declare your eligibility for the Indian Scholars Program during the university application process.
- Final Selection by Universities: Universities shortlist candidates based on their SAT scores, financial need, as well as overall academic profile.
List of Colleges Offering SAT Scholarships
Indian students with strong SAT scores can unlock generous merit-based funding at several international universities. Awards such as the Merit-Based Scholarship at Colorado State University and the Academic Excellence Award at Baylor University are offered based on SAT performance and overall profile.
Read More: SAT Syllabus
Universities Offering SAT-Based Scholarships
| University | Scholarship Name | SAT Score Range | Scholarship Amount |
| Colorado State University | Merit-Based Scholarship | 1130–1300+ | USD 5,000–10,000 (₹4.4–8.8 L) |
| Baylor University | Academic Excellence Award | 1200–1390+ | USD 3,000–15,000 (₹2.6–13 L) |
| Georgia University | SAT Achievement Award | 1200+ | USD 3,000 (₹2.6 L) |
| Texas Tech University | Presidential Scholarship | 1000–1600 | USD 1,000–9,000 (₹88K–7.9 L) |
| University of Oregon | UO Merit Scholarship | 1250+ | USD 3,000–10,000 (₹2.6–8.8 L) |
| University of Mississippi | Chancellor’s Scholarship | 1130+ | USD 7,000–10,000 (₹6.1–8.8 L) |
| University of Missouri | Academic Achievement Scholarship | 1200–1390 | USD 3,000–15,000 (₹2.6–13 L) |
| University of Nevada | President’s Merit Scholarship | 1130+ | USD 7,000–11,000 (₹6.1–9.7 L) |
Score-Based SAT Scholarships
SAT Score Range: 1000–1200 (2026 Deadlines)
| Scholarship Name | Award Amount | Deadline (2026) |
| Paul Tsongas Scholarship | Full Tuition | Jan 02, 2026 |
| UT–San Antonio Distinguished Presidential Scholarship | USD 20,000 (₹17.6 L) | Jan 15, 2026 |
| Dorrance Scholarship | USD 48,000 (₹42 L) | Feb 05, 2026 |
SAT Score Range: 1201–1400 (2026 Deadlines)
| Scholarship Name | Award Amount | Deadline (2026) |
| Clark University Presidential Scholarship | Full Tuition | Jan 15, 2026 |
| Micron Science & Technology Scholars Program | USD 55,000 (₹48.4 L) | Jan 19, 2026 |
Read Also:Â SAT Registration
SAT Score Range: 1401–1600 (2026 Deadlines)
| Scholarship Name | Award Amount | Deadline (2026) |
| Outstanding Achiever Award | USD 1,000 (₹88,000) | Jan 09, 2026 |
| Greater St. Louis Artists Scholarship | USD 2,500 (₹2.2 L) | Mar 16, 2026 |
| Florida A&M Distinguished Scholars Award | Varies | Apr 01, 2026 |
| Daniel G. Calugar Merit Scholarship | USD 10,000 (₹8.8 L) | May 26, 2026 |
| Oklahoma State Regents Academic Scholars Program | USD 6,500 (₹5.7 L) | Rolling (2026) |
Eligibility Criteria for SAT Scholarships
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Academic Level | Enrolled in Class 11 or 12 |
| Family Income | Less than ₹8 lakh annually |
| Minimum SAT Score | 1300 out of 1600 |
| University Admission | Admission to a participating Indian university |
Documents Required for SAT Scholarships
| Document | Purpose |
| Scholarship Application Form | Official scholarship registration |
| Academic Transcripts | Proof of academic performance |
| SAT Score Report | Verification of SAT eligibility |
| Resume / CV | Academic and extracurricular summary |
| Letter of Recommendation (LOR) | Academic or professional endorsement |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Explains goals and motivation |
| University Acceptance Letter | Confirms admission |
| Valid Passport | Identity verification |
| Student Visa | Legal study permission |
| Passport-size Photographs | Official records |
Read More:Â SAT Eligibility
Tips for Securing SAT Exam Scholarships
| Tip | Why It Matters |
| Maintain a strong academic record | A high GPA supports your SAT score and shows consistency |
| Aim for a higher SAT score | Better scores unlock larger and more scholarships |
| Apply early | Early applications avoid strict deadline rejections |
| Research scholarship universities | Not all universities offer SAT-based aid |
| Write a strong scholarship essay | Personal, clear stories help you stand out |
| Prepare documents in advance | Saves time and prevents last-minute errors |
| Apply for multiple scholarships | Increases chances of receiving financial aid |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are SAT scholarships?
Financial aid awarded based on SAT scores, academic merit, and sometimes financial need.
What SAT score is required for scholarships?
Most scholarships require 1300+; higher scores unlock larger and full-tuition awards.
Are SAT scholarships available for Indian students
Yes, Indian students can access university and College Board–linked SAT scholarships.
Can I get a scholarship with a test-optional application
Some universities offer merit aid without SAT scores, but score-based scholarships require submission.
Do SAT scholarships cover full tuition
Yes, select universities offer full-tuition scholarships for high SAT scorers.
When should I apply for SAT scholarships?
Apply alongside university applications, typically between October and January.
Is FAFSA required for SAT scholarships
For Need-based scholarships at US universities, not always for merit-based awards FAFSA required.
Can I apply for multiple SAT scholarships
Yes, applying to multiple scholarships increases your chances of financial support.
