2026 University of Alabama Presidential Elite Scholarship: Fully Funded in USA

The Presidential Elite Scholarship is the highest level of merit award at the University of Alabama. It is designed for students who have achieved academic perfection. For the 2026 academic year, UA is looking for scholars who will not only excel in the classroom but also lead in research and international engagement.

Scholarship & Funding Summary

Category	Details
Host Institution	University of Alabama (UA), Tuscaloosa, USA
Study Level	Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree)
Academic Requirement	4.0+ GPA AND 36 ACT / 1600 SAT
Total Reward	Full Tuition + Housing + Stipends
Eligible Countries	All Countries (International & Domestic)
Priority Deadline	December 5, 2025 (For Summer/Fall 2026)

Financial Benefits & Rewards

This scholarship is essentially a “full-ride” and includes:

Full Tuition: Covers the total cost of tuition for up to four years (8 semesters) for undergraduate and even potential graduate/law studies.
On-Campus Housing: One year of housing at the regular room rate.
Supplemental Stipend: $1,500 per year for four years (totaling $6,000).
Research/Travel Allowance: A one-time $2,000 allowance to be used for summer research or international study abroad (after the first year).
Book Scholarship: $500 per year for four years (totaling $2,000).

Eligibility Requirements for 2026

To be selected as a Presidential Elite Scholar, you must meet the following strict criteria:

Test Scores: A perfect score of 36 on the ACT OR a 1600 on the SAT (from a single test date).
GPA: A cumulative high school GPA of 4.0 or higher.
Status: Must be a first-time freshman applicant.
English Proficiency: For international students, proof of English (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo) is required unless exempt.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Submit the Undergraduate Application

Apply for admission via the UA Undergraduate Application or the Common App. Your admission application automatically acts as your primary scholarship application.

Step 2: Send Official Test Scores & Transcripts

You must ensure that your official ACT/SAT scores and high school transcripts reach the university by the deadline. Self-reported scores may be used for initial review, but official ones are required for finalization.

Step 3: Meet the Deadlines

Spring 2026 Entry: November 3, 2025.
Summer/Fall 2026 Entry: December 5, 2025 (Priority Deadline).
Note: While applications are accepted later, priority for elite awards is given to those who meet the December 5th date.

Step 4: Access the Alabama Scholarship Award Manager (ASAM)

Once admitted, log in to your myBama portal to access ASAM. Here, you can apply for additional competitive scholarships from specific departments or the Alumni Association.

Important Renewal PolicyTo keep this scholarship for all four years, students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative UA GPA and remain enrolled as full-time students.

Official Link: University of Alabama International Freshman Scholarships