Scholarships and Grants for New Undergraduates
There are a number of scholarship and grant opportunities available for new undergraduates, which are granted by Emerson’s Office of Undergraduate Admission and other private entities.
Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based financial aid is awarded on the basis of the financial need of the student. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid application (FAFSA) as well as additional supplemental documents are used to determine your federal, state, and institutional need-based aid eligibility. Learn how to apply for aid.
Merit-Based Scholarships
The Office of Undergraduate Admission awards a variety of merit and achievement awards each year to new student applicants. Decisions are at the sole discretion of the Office of Undergraduate Admission. Applicants are notified of their scholarships when admitted to the College.
Private Scholarships
Private scholarships are awarded from various organizations, private agencies, foundations, community-based organizations, and civic groups to help worthy students meet the cost of attending college. View a list of private scholarships.
Grants
Students who complete their financial aid applications may be eligible for the following grants:
Emerson Grants: Awarded to full-time students who demonstrate financial need and academic achievement.
Federal Pell Grant: A federal grant available to students who demonstrate financial need. Complete the FAFSA to apply. For the 2026–2027 academic year, awards ranged from $740 to $7,395.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): Awarded to students with the greatest demonstrated financial need. Awards range from $100 to $4,000 per academic year.
Gilbert Grants: Available to Massachusetts residents enrolled full-time who demonstrate financial need. Eligible colleges receive a limited allocation from the State each year.
State Scholarship and Grant Programs
The following states allow their scholarships and grants to be used at Emerson. Contact your individual state program for application procedures and filing deadlines.