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FAQ on UW Tacoma Scholarships


How do I prove financial need?
Financial need is based on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You are asked to provide the EFC number which can be found on the cover sheet from your Student Aid Report. You should complete your FAFSA by Feb. 28; the school code for UW is 003798.
Should I apply if I have low financial need?
Yes. Not all scholarships are awarded based on financial need. UW Tacoma also awards scholarships based on merit. Merit scholarships generally require a minimum GPA of 3.0. On occasion, UW Tacoma may also offer merit-based tuition waivers for Washington State residents.
How is academic merit determined?
Academic merit is based on your UW Tacoma GPA if you are a current student or your high school or transfer GPA if you are a new student.
What if I am already receiving a partial scholarship or tuition exemption?
You must list all scholarships, fellowships, tuition exemptions or other financial assistance under the financial aid section of the application. This does not bar you from consideration, but it will be taken into account when the committee considers your application.
What should I say in my essay?
Instructions on the content of the essay can vary. Specific directions should be included on the application form. The essay is a critical part of your application and your opportunity to stand out.
How long should I make my essay?
Your essay should not exceed 1,000 words (about 2 1/2 pages). Essays are judged on quality, not word count. Since committee members must thoroughly review every essay submitted, applicants who can make their case in a concise manner make the best impression. Essays must directly address the topic indicated to be eligible for consideration.
Can I apply for more than one UW Tacoma scholarship at a time?
You can apply for multiple UW Tacoma scholarships, but you cannot be awarded more than one UW Tacoma scholarship at a time. This applies only to scholarships directly awarded by UW Tacoma.
How will I know if I’ve been awarded a scholarship?
Everyone who applies will be notified in writing of the result, whether they were awarded a scholarship or not.
Who decides the awards?
The UW Tacoma Scholarship Committee consists of faculty and staff from various academic programs and the Office of Registration and Financial Aid.
Are there any scholarships targeted specifically to women or people of color?
As a state institution, UW Tacoma is prohibited by state law from considering gender or ethnicity in awarding scholarships.
Can I use the funds for books or other expenses besides tuition?
Unless otherwise noted in the application, scholarship funds cover only tuition costs.
Are there other obligations attached to receiving scholarship funds?
Generally, scholarship recipients are expected to write thank-you letters to the donors and may be asked to participate in events to thank the donors who have made these scholarships possible. Names of scholarship recipients may be published online or in promotional materials.