2026 Boston University Trustee Scholarship: Full-Ride for Undergraduates

The Boston University Trustee Scholarship is the university’s most prestigious merit-based award. Each year, it is awarded to approximately 20 students from around the world who show not only perfect academic records but also a unique creative or intellectual “spark.”

This scholarship covers the full cost of undergraduate tuition and all mandatory student fees for four years of study.

Scholarship Summary

Category	Details
Host Institution	Boston University (BU), USA
Study Level	Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree)
Reward	Full Tuition + Mandatory Fees
Duration	4 Years (Renewable)
Eligible Countries	All International & Domestic Students
Primary Deadline	December 1, 2025 (For 2026 Intake)

Eligibility & “Who are they looking for?”

The selection committee looks for students who go “beyond the usual.” Successful candidates typically have:

Academic Excellence: Perfect 4.0 GPAs (or equivalent) and rank in the top 5% of their high school class.
Standardized Tests: While BU is test-optional for 2026, most Trustee Scholars historically submit SAT scores above 1500 or ACT scores above 33.
English Proficiency: Unlike some other awards, BU requires proof of English for international students:
- TOEFL iBT: 90–100+
- IELTS: 7.0+
- Duolingo (DET): 115–130+

The Trustee Scholarship Essays (2026 Prompts)

To apply, you must choose one of the following two prompts and write an essay of 600 words or less in the Common Application:

Identity & History: Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel once said: “To learn means to accept the postulate that life did not begin at my birth. Others have been here before me…” Is there a book, film, podcast, or life experience that made you feel more connected to your personal history/identity?
Overcoming Comfort Zones: Describe a time when you felt out of your comfort zone or marginalized in a situation. How did you respond, and how has it informed your actions moving forward?

Required Application Documents

Common Application: Must be submitted by the deadline.
High School Transcripts: Complete records from your secondary school.
Counselor Recommendation & School Report.
Teacher Evaluation: From at least one academic teacher.
Proof of Financial Support: Necessary for international visa processing.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Start the Common Application

Add Boston University to your list in the Common App. Ensure you select the Fall 2026 term.

Step 2: Select “Yes” for the Scholarship

In the “Questions” tab of the BU application section, look for the merit scholarship question. You must explicitly select that you wish to be considered for the Trustee Scholarship.

Step 3: Write Your Essay

This is the most critical part. Do not just list your achievements; tell a compelling story that shows your character.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

The absolute deadline for the Trustee Scholarship is December 1. If you submit on December 2, you will be considered for admission but not for this scholarship.

Key Retention Criteria

To keep the scholarship for all four years, you must:

Maintain a minimum 3.50 cumulative GPA at Boston University.
Complete at least 12 credits per semester.
Remain in good disciplinary standing.

Official Link: BU Trustee Scholarship Page