Freshmen

Entering first-year students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships at the time of their admission to Whittier College. Notification of merit scholarships will be sent to students after they have been admitted to the College.

Whittier College additionally offers Talent Scholarships valued from $1,000 to $12,000 in art, music, and theatre. Talent Scholarships are awarded to students by the academic departments based on a separate application and supplemental materials (auditions for theatre and music, and a portfolio for art). Follow this link for more information: Talent Scholarships

Each fall, Whittier hosts a special, invitation-only Honors Weekend for outstanding high school seniors. During the intensive three-day program, students compete for the prestigious John Greenleaf Whittier Academic Merit Scholarship awards, valued up to full tuition.

To qualify as a participant in this weekend, the entering student must have a minimum 3.5 GPA, and SATI scores of 1800 or above (or ACT scores of 27 or above). To be considered for Honors Weekend participation, submit a completed application for admission and supporting documents to Whittier College's Office of Admission by October 15th. Qualifying competitors will be notified by the Admission Office during the first week of November.

Students who are also interested in receiving need-based financial aid must submit the Basic Asset Data Sheet (2010-2011 forms are available here) as well as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). California residents should also submit a GPA Verification form by March 2 in order to be eligible for consideration to receive a Cal Grant.

TO APPLY for Need-Based Financial Aid:

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) (school code# 001342). You must complete and submit the FAFSA to the processor by March 2.

2. Complete the Basic Asset Data Sheet .

3. Each year, the California Student Aid Commission awards Cal Grants to qualified California residents. For information and applications go to http://www.csac.ca.gov