First Year Student Scholarships
Capital University provides a range of scholarships to support first-year students. Whether they are merit- or need-based, our scholarships are an investment in your future success.
Our scholarships are designed to support you throughout your college experience. Explore each opportunity to see how Capital recognizes your achievements and unique talents, helping you build a brighter future.
The Main Street Scholarship
All incoming undergraduate students are eligible for the Main Street Scholarship, providing a minimum award of $80,000 over four years. This scholarship is automatically applied to full-time students, including transfer and international students working on their first college degree. For those who meet additional GPA, residency, and income requirements, the Capital Gateway Scholarship may cover full tuition and fees.
The Capital Merit Scholarship
The Main Street Scholarship is just the beginning of the support that Capital University offers. But there’s more—Capital’s Merit Scholarship is a stackable award and is added to the Main Street Scholarship. The Capital Merit Scholarship is based on your GPA and rewards your hard work in high school. It's our way of recognizing your achievements and helping you focus on what matters most: your education and future success.
| Weighted High School GPA | Capital Merit Scholarship | Main Street Scholarship | Main Street + Capital Merit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.0-3.19 | $2,000/yr. | $20,000 | $22,000/yr. |
| 3.2-3.49 | $4,000/yr. | $20,000 | $24,000/yr. |
| 3.5-3.79 | $6,000/yr. | $20,000 | $26,000/yr. |
| 3.8-3.99 | $7,000/yr. | $20,000 | $27,000/yr. |
| 4.0 and above | $8,000/yr. | $20,000 | $28,000/yr. |
Merit Based Scholarships & Competitions
First-year students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships from $5,500 up to full tuition, room, and board. Capital University is committed to recognizing your hard work and investing in your success through various financial awards.
| Name | Amount | Criteria to Qualify |
| National Merit Scholarship Program | Up to Full Room & Board | National Merit Scholarship students who attend Capital full-time and live on campus. Must be named a finalist or semifinalist. |
| Conservatory Performance Award | $5,500 toward Tuition | Audition based award for full-time Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Arts in Music majors. |
| Music Composition Scholarship | Up to $5,500 toward Tuition | Based on composition portfolio and evaluation for full-time Conservatory of Music composition majors. |
| ROTC | Up to Full Tuition w/ Room & Board | Awarded based on merit, leadership potential, and physical aptitude. |
Special Awards
Capital University offers special awards tailored to recognize unique qualifications and backgrounds. These scholarships provide additional support for students, whether through full tuition, grants, or room and board assistance. Take a look at the table below to explore how these awards can help make your college experience more affordable.
| Name | Amount | Criteria to Qualify |
| Capital Gateway Scholarship | Full Tuition | 3.5 GPA or higher, Ohio residents, complete FAFSA, and a maximum household income of $60,000. Open to high school seniors only. |
| Lutheran Heritage Grant | $1,000 toward Tuition | 2.0 GPA or higher, child of Lutheran pastor, or identify as a member of a Lutheran Congregational Church. |
| Partners in Education | Match up to $500 toward Tuition | Your congregation has its own criteria and award amount. Capital University matches funds up to $500 contributed by Lutheran Congregations. |
| Sibling Award | $1,000 toward Tuition | Sibling enrolled must also be a full-time traditional undergraduate at Capital. |
| Comet Community Award | $5,000 toward Room & Board | Enrolled as an undergrad living on campus. |
Need-Based Grants
We’re just getting started when it comes to making college affordable. Need-based grants are also available for students who qualify through the FAFSA, and these grants are given in addition to your merit award. The best part? We’ll let you know quickly! Scholarship letters are sent out with acceptance packets, so apply early in your senior year to find out your award eligibility as soon as possible.
How to Apply for Scholarships
Applying for scholarships at Capital University is simple! Scholarships and other aid, including the Main Street Scholarship and Capital Merit Scholarships, don’t require a separate application. By submitting your application for admission, you’ll be considered for these scholarships based on your academic achievements and eligibility. To maximize your financial aid package, make sure to complete the FAFSA for access to additional need-based aid.
Questions?
For questions about scholarships or financial aid, contact our admissions counselors. We're here to help you explore the best options for funding your education.
Phone — call us at 614-236-6101 or toll free at 866-544-6175
Email — send your questions to admission@mikeshiner.com