Looking for the right financial aid option to fund your higher education after High School and your state does not have the options you desire?! Well if you've got a good SAT/ACT score, then you may as well look at some of the best Nationwide scholarship programs that the US has to offer. There are several nationwide scholarships in the U.S. that award funding based on SATÂ or ACTÂ scores. These scholarships typically evaluate standardized test scores alongside other criteria such as GPA, extracurricular activities, and leadership qualities. Here are some prominent nationwide scholarships:

1. National Merit Scholarship Program
The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships in the U.S., based primarily on PSAT scores taken in junior year of high school. However, finalists are required to submit their SAT scores to confirm their eligibility.
Award: $2,500 one-time scholarship for National Merit Scholars. Corporate and college-sponsored awards can range from $500 to full tuition.
Eligibility: High PSAT scores, SAT confirmation scores, strong academic record, and endorsement by the student’s school.
Deadline: Students automatically enter the program by taking the PSAT in their junior year.
2. Coca-Cola Scholars Program
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is a nationwide scholarship that values academic excellence, leadership, and community service. While test scores (SAT/ACT) are not the sole focus, they play a role in the holistic evaluation of applicants.
Award: $20,000 awarded to 150 students annually.
Eligibility: High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a strong history of leadership and service.
Deadline: Applications typically open in August and close in October.
3. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation provides substantial funding for high-achieving students with financial need. SAT and ACT scores are considered as part of the selection process.
Award: Up to $55,000 per year, renewable for four years.
Eligibility: High school seniors with a minimum unweighted 3.5 GPA and SAT/ACT scores in the top 15% (around 1200+ SAT or 26+ ACT).
Deadline: Applications usually close in early November.
4. Davidson Fellows Scholarship
The Davidson Fellows Scholarship is for students under 18 who have completed a significant project in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, literature, or music. SAT/ACT scores strengthen applications, though the primary focus is on the student's project.
Award: $10,000 to $50,000.
Eligibility: Exceptional achievement in a particular field. SAT/ACT scores are not mandatory but can demonstrate academic excellence.
Deadline: Late February annually.
5. The Gates Scholarship
Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship focuses on high-achieving minority students with financial need. SAT/ACT scores are considered but not the primary criterion.
Award: Full cost of attendance not covered by other financial aid or scholarships.
Eligibility: High school seniors from minority groups with a minimum 3.3 GPA, demonstrated leadership, and financial need.
Deadline: Applications typically open in July and close in September.
6. Burger King Scholars Program
The Burger King Scholars Program awards scholarships to students who demonstrate strong academic performance, including SAT/ACT scores, and community involvement.
Award: Ranges from $1,000 to $50,000.
Eligibility: High school seniors with a minimum 2.5 GPA and involvement in school or community service.
Deadline: Applications usually open in October and close in December.
7. College-Specific Merit Scholarships
Many colleges offer nationwide merit scholarships that heavily weigh SAT/ACT scores. These scholarships are not limited to state residents and can range from partial tuition waivers to full-ride awards. Examples include:
University of Alabama: Automatic merit scholarships based on SAT/ACT and GPA.
Texas Tech University: National Merit Finalist scholarships that cover full tuition and fees.
University of Kentucky: Patterson Scholarship for National Merit Finalists.
8. RaiseMe Micro-Scholarships
Through RaiseMe, students can earn micro-scholarships from hundreds of colleges for achievements like SAT/ACT scores, maintaining a high GPA, and leadership roles.
Award: Varies; students earn specific dollar amounts for achievements, which are applied upon admission to participating colleges.
Eligibility: Open to high school students starting in 9th grade.
9. Ron Brown Scholar Program
This program is geared toward African-American high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to public service. While SAT/ACT scores are not explicitly required, they strengthen applications.
Award: $40,000 ($10,000 per year for four years).
Eligibility: African-American students with a strong academic record and leadership experience.
Deadline: January 9 annually.
10. College Board Opportunity Scholarships
This program rewards students for completing steps in the college application process, such as practicing for the SAT and improving scores.
Award: Ranges from $500 to $40,000.
Eligibility: Open to all high school students, regardless of GPA or test scores.
Deadline: Monthly opportunities throughout the year.
Tips for Maximizing Your Chances
Research Early: Many scholarships have early deadlines, so start researching in junior year.
Ace Your SAT/ACT: Strong test scores can make you a top contender for merit-based awards.
Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Increase your chances by applying to several programs.
Highlight Leadership and Service: Many scholarships value well-rounded students who contribute to their communities.
By leveraging your SAT or ACT scores, you can access a variety of scholarships that will help reduce the financial burden of college and set you on the path to success. And if SAT/ACT is the next stepping stone in your success journey, count me in and book classes with me now!
*SAT, Digital SAT are registered trademarks owned by the College Board, and EduretiX is not related to the College Board in any way or holds any ownership on the trademarks.
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