Freshman Scholarships & Financial Aid

Scholarships for Incoming Freshmen
Madison awards more than 400 one- to four-year scholarships each year to incoming students.
Dingledine-Bluestone Scholarships
Early action freshman applicants are invited to apply for these merit-based awards. The awards are granted annually and are the most prestigious awards that we offer. An additional scholarship application is required.
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Madison Award for Academic Excellence
JMU academic colleges and departments award between $4,000-10,000 annually to students of great accomplishment and potential. No additional application is necessary.
Second Century Scholarships
Freshman enrolling in one of the designated STEM programs may qualify to be a Second Century Scholar and receive scholarship in the amount of 75% of in-state tuition for the first year and continues at this amount for a maximum of four consecutive years.
Scholarships for select interest areas
Some academic areas and departments offer scholarships to entering freshmen. Application requirements may differ from area to area.
Private Scholarships
You may want to explore opportunities from outside of JMU to assist with your educational expenses here. Private scholarships can originate from any non-JMU source.
Other Ways to Afford JMU
Financial Aid
Your college education is one of the most significant investments you will ever make. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships will help simplify and guide you through the financial aid process as you seek avenues to fund the cost of your college education.
To determine your eligibility for assistance, please complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. FAFSA forms received by the Department of Education before our priority filing date of March 1 will receive first consideration. Our federal school code is 003721. JMU does not base admission decisions on financial aid.
Student Employment
Students are eligible to apply for Student positions and Wage/Part-Time positions that are advertised on JMU Joblink. JMU’s Office of Student Employment maintains listings of off-campus positions that may be of interest. Of course, students may search for jobs using other databases and local publications as well.