Grants & Scholarships
Our Promise to You
We are dedicated to helping you meet the cost of your college education.
Bluefield University believes in supporting our students. This is why more than 90% of our degree-seeking students are offered financial assistance in some form. BU is pleased to offer scholarships and grants to degree-seeking students based on their good grades (merit-based criteria) and financial need (FAFSA-based criteria). We can also help you find other sources of financial assistance, such as loan programs and federally funded work-study jobs to help pay your college costs.
We recognize that earning a college degree is a significant expense for most families and individuals. But we believe a four-year degree is a priceless experience that helps you grow and shape your future. This is why we do everything we can to help you achieve your dream.
The first step to this future begins with you. We invite you to review the full range of financial assistance options available to qualified students. Remember: Once you receive your award letter, you will have 45 days to accept it, thereby “locking in” your financial aid. To accept the award, just follow the requested steps in your award letter. Our Financial Aid Process page outlines the entire process and includes helpful links for financial assistance.
Federal Student Aid
The first step every student should take is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Your eligibility for financial assistance is based on the outcome of the data you submit on your FAFSA. Pell-eligible students may receive up to $3,248 per semester. Based on income and need, students may be eligible for the following financial aid from these federal programs:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Federal Direct Loan Program
- Federal Direct PLUS Loan (for parents of dependent students, graduate or professional students)
Virginia students ineligible to file the FAFSA may complete the Virginia Alternative State Aid Application (VASAA) instead. Submitting this application may not qualify students for additional aid. Please contact our Admissions office with questions.
Grants & Scholarships
On-Campus (Undergraduate)
Federal Grant Programs
The Federal Pell Grant is available to low-income students. Your eligibility is based on the outcome of your FAFSA and is FREE money granted to you by the Federal Government based on your need. This award ranges from $325 – $3,248 per semester. Some students may be affected by the Lifetime Eligibility requirements for the Federal Pell Grant.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant is a limited campus-based federal grant available to Pell Grant eligible students with high financial need.
Virginia State Grant Programs
Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) is a state grant for residents of Virginia. The annual award amount for on-ground students will be $5,000 for the 2023-24 academic year. To be eligible, students must be a domiciled Virginia resident, complete the 2023-24 VTAG application by July 31, must not have moved to Virginia for the purpose of attending a post-secondary school, and on-ground traditional students pursuing undergraduate studies. Students who have previously received VTAG in a prior award year do not need to complete the application.
Virginia Two-Year College Transfer Grant
The Virginia Two Year College Transfer Grant (CTG) has a standard award of $1,000 and up to an additional $1,000 for certain majors (science, teaching, mathematics, and nursing). To be eligible, students must complete a FAFSA, be an undergraduate in-state student (first time entering freshman no earlier than Fall 2007), be a Virginia domiciled resident, must not have moved to Virginia for the purposes of attending a post-secondary school, must meet the selective service requirements, have an EFC of $12,000 (or less depending on the year it was first awarded), must have earned an Associate’s degree at a Virginia two-year public institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 for the Associate’s degree, maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA at Bluefield University, and be enrolled full-time by fall semester following completion of the Associate’s degree (limited to 3 years). Applications must be submitted to be considered.
Students not eligible to complete the FAFSA may submit Virginia’s Alternative State Aid Application (VASAA) instead.
Almost every state education agency has at least one grant or scholarship available to residents, and many have a long list of student aid programs. Eligibility is usually restricted to state residents attending a college in-state, but that’s not always the case. There are annual deadlines for most programs (if you miss a deadline, be sure to try again next year). Click your state on this map from NASFAA to find out what financial aid programs may be available to you through your state education agency. Also, check out state and regional tuition exchanges and keep in mind that other state-sponsored aid may be available through non-profit organizations in your area.
The application is located under Forms and Resources.
Institutional Programs
Academic Scholarships
Bluefield University awards academic scholarships, which range from $3,000 to $13,000, to degree-seeking students who meet the academic performance criteria for a specific scholarship. The number of scholarships offered is limited, so students have only 45 days to accept their award to ensure they receive it. That’s why we encourage students to apply for admittance and financial aid early.
Academic scholarships are renewable for four years if you are enrolled full time and you maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress. For the 2021/2022 academic year, your GPA will be used to determine the amount of the scholarship; in the future, award criteria may include such things as test scores. Available awards include the Alumni, Achievement, Deans’, Harman, Lansdell, Opportunity, and Trustees scholarships.
Presidential Scholarship
Each year, Bluefield University awards two full-tuition scholarships, available for only two (2) new freshmen. Potential recipients will be asked to provide two letters of recommendation, come to campus for an interview, and to write an essay that will be reviewed by select faculty members. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years. Students must meet the following: full-time enrollment, maintain Bluefield University cumulative GPA of 3.5 (reviewed at the end of each spring semester), continual enrollment (excluding summers), and 45 hours of tutoring per semester during Junior and Senior years.
Spire Scholarship
Each year, Bluefield University awards ten freshmen an additional $1,000 in academic scholarships. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.50 in order to compete. Potential recipients will be asked to provide two letters of recommendation, come to campus for an interview, and to write an essay that will be reviewed by select faculty members. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years. Students must meet the following: full-time enrollment, maintain Bluefield University cumulative GPA of 3.0 (reviewed at the end of each spring semester), continual enrollment (excluding summers), and 30 hours of tutoring per semester during Junior and Senior years.
Honors Scholarship
Incoming students have the opportunity to apply to the Honors Program. To qualify for the Honors Program, students must have a minimum of 25 ACT (composite score), 1140 SAT (a combination of math and verbal scores), or be eligible for the Presidential Scholarship. Students can apply and submit essays online. Students who are admitted into the program may qualify for up to $1,000 scholarships that are renewable each year of participation. For more information, email Dr. Rob Merritt.
Ambassadors Scholarship
Ambassadors work as the front-line within the Admissions office. These students meet with families and give tours while sharing information about BU. Ambassadors are required to go through training and assist with enrollment events. Awarded based on an application process. The amount varies annually per student. Students must work with admissions on renewable awards each year. Only available to students who continue to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress. Email Jordan Dillon in the Admissions office to inquire and apply.
Athletic Scholarships
Awarded by our coaching staff, this scholarship is renewable based on the criteria of the coach and the standards of NAIA.
Bluefield Access Scholarship
Bluefield University awards the Bluefield Access Scholarship to non-athlete students based on need. Students must be accepted to the University and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be assessed for this scholarship.
Virginia students not eligible to complete the FAFSA may submit Virginia’s Alternative State Aid Application (VASAA) instead.
Fine Arts Scholarships
Awarded to students who have demonstrated talent in the areas of visual and performing arts, these scholarships are determined by audition before the faculty of the Fine Arts Department.
Marching Band Scholarships
Awarded to students who have demonstrated talent in marching band, these scholarships are determined by audition before the music department. Award amount varies per student. This scholarship is renewable based on criteria established by the music department along with criteria set in our Satisfactory Academic Progress policy.
Worship Band Scholarships
Awarded to students who have demonstrated talent in a worship team, these scholarships are determined by audition before the Student Development Department. Award amount varies per student annually. This scholarship is renewable for all four years of full-time enrollment provided the student meets the criteria established by Student Development and maintains Satisfactory Academic Progress.
Go Bluefield Scholarship
$2,000 per year scholarship awarded to students who attend and matriculate to Bluefield University directly from high school within a specified articulation agreement. This scholarship is renewable for all four years of full-time enrollment provided the student maintains Satisfactory Academic Progress. Current school(s) in this agreement include Oak Hill Academy. Contact your admissions counselor to determine if you qualify!
International Scholarship
May be awarded to international students who are not receiving an athletic or performing arts scholarship. The amount varies per student and may be renewable for all four years of full-time enrollment provided the student maintains Satisfactory Academic Progress.
Missionary Kids Of Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Scholarship (MK OF CBF)
Bluefield University offers two full-tuition scholarships to children of Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Missionaries, available for only two full-time students. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years. Students must meet the following: full-time enrollment, continual enrollment (excluding summers), and maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements. Potential recipients will be required to complete the application and provide a letter from CBF certifying the parent’s missionary status. Documentation is to be submitted to the Admissions Office. Applicants are selected by an Admissions Committee. One scholarship may extend to the child of an International Mission Board Missionary.
Sage Tuition Rewards
SAGE Tuition Rewards is a unique, private college savings program. Tuition Rewards are discounts off tuition at participating colleges that represent the minimum scholarship that an eligible student will receive if attending a member college. Students receive Tuition Rewards from multiple “sponsors” (for example, parents and grandparents). A sponsor designates the tuition rewards to students when they begin their senior year of high school. If the students do not use the tuition rewards, they are rolled back into the sponsor’s account for use by other students. Bluefield University includes Tuition Rewards as part of the normal institutional and merit scholarships. For more information on SAGE Tuition Rewards please visit their website. Bluefield University must receive confirmation from SAGE of your Tuition Rewards within 10 days of applying to our institution.
Rampage Editor’s Scholarship
Founded in 1987, the Rampage is Bluefield University’s student-produced newspaper. Under the supervision of the Department of Communication, the Rampage is designed to showcase student talents, keep students informed of relevant news and events, and give a voice to the student body. Existing for years as a traditional print newspaper, the Rampage launched an online news site (www.burampage.com and a more modern magazine-style print version in the fall of 2018.
As part of its support of the Rampage and in an effort to reward exceptional contributions to the publication, the Department of Communication presents a $3,000 annual scholarship to two outstanding students who work with the Rampage. Recipients are expected to commit to at least a full year (two semesters) with the Rampage. The scholarship is also renewable from year to year as long as the student continues to meet the requirements of the award. If circumstances prohibit a full year’s commitment (e.g. class scheduling conflict), the scholarship can be awarded per semester.
To be eligible for a Rampage Scholarship, students must be enrolled or actively involved in at least one communication class, possess significant experience or strong skills in areas related to a print newspaper, be in good academic standing with a preferred GPA of 3.0, including a 3.0 GPA in communication course, along with maintaining an active interest and role in the publication. It is expected the recipient will work well with others, take a leadership role, contribute ideas, and work independently with little supervision.
For more information or to apply for the Rampage Editor’s Scholarship, contact the Department of Communication.
Bluefield University Private Scholarships
The following scholarship applications are available for download from Forms and Resources. In order to be considered, completed applications must be submitted to the Financial Aid Office by July 1st or by the specified deadline.
Rev. Dr. David M. Armbrister Memorial Scholarship
Dr. Armbrister was a history professor, a mentor, and a classmate. He served 32 years as faculty at Bluefield and earned the highest rant of Faculty Emeritus in 2019, along with the distinction for an honorary doctorate. Due to his kindness, gentleness, and dedication to his students, dozens of alumni and friends have partnered with Bluefield to perpetually remember him with this scholarship. The recipient of this scholarship is to be a full-time student with preference given to a student majoring in History, with demonstrated financial need. Students may apply for this scholarship by completing an application before or by July 1st annually.
Barbara Price Memorial Scholarship
Barbara Price of Bluefield, West Virginia, was a tremendous asset to Bluefield University and the founder of the Bluefield University Art Club. She was talented in both painting and ceramics and had a strong desire to help the art program at Bluefield University. Due to her love of art and desire to help Bluefield University, this scholarship is named in her memory. The applicant must be an art, art education, or graphic communication major at Bluefield University. If there are no qualifying students in these majors in a given year, the pool of acceptable majors may be expanded to include any majors which would be considered those within the broad field of Fine Arts. Preference shall be given to students with a demonstrated financial need.
Peggy Emert Bickford Endowed Memorial Scholarship
A native of Buckingham County, Virginia, Peggy attended Bluefield from 1969-1971 where she majored in business and served as president of the business club. Growing up in rural Central Virginia, she experienced first-hand the struggles and financial challenges many college students face. However, Bluefield provided a path for her to earn her degree while strengthening her love for Christ. This reinforced her desire to serve others. Alongside her husband, Steve, this scholarship was created to provide financial support to students from rural areas. Peggy’s final words were, “My work is done, but there is more to do and ya’ll need to do it.” She issued this challenge to all Bluefield students, but especially those who receive her scholarship. It is their wish that all students may have the opportunity to fulfill their goals in life and attend Bluefield University where they too can become “servant-leaders to transform the world.”
Billy G. Moore Scholarship
Billy G. Moore had a life-long appreciation for learning and higher education. This scholarship is established in his name and his request prior to his death was that this endowed scholarship be used to financially assist future students entering the fields of education or ministry at Bluefield University. The recipients of The B.G. Moore Endowed Scholarship are to be full-time students that plan to either obtain teacher licensure or have a sensed call to full-time Christian service, including youth, music, Christian education, or full-time pastorate ministries. The recipients must have and maintain at least a 3.0-grade point average to qualify for this scholarship. Preference shall also be given to students with a demonstrated financial need. The recipient will be eligible to receive this scholarship for up to four years, providing that he/she maintains a minimum of a 3.0-grade point average and is in compliance with the University’s accountability.
C. Ray & Jane Wingrove Scholarship
Preference is to be given to rising juniors who plan a career of teaching/research in education, including those whose goal is college or university teaching and research. Recipients must have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher and also be in good standing with Bluefield University in order to qualify for the scholarship. Preference shall also be given to students with a demonstrated financial need.
Clarence H. & Phyllis L. Vance Scholarship
Recipients of the Clarence H. and Phyllis L. Vance Scholarship for Ministry and Missions are to be full-time students who have a sensed call to serve in the area of drama or full-time pastorate ministries. First preference shall be given to students from the Virginia counties of Tazewell, Buchanan, and Russell. If necessary, the field may be broadened to include any student from Southwest Virginia. Preference shall be given to students with a demonstrated financial need.
Cleta Francis Scholarship
The Maggie Francis Scholarship Fund is established by Mrs. Cleta Francis in appreciation for the role Bluefield University has played in her formal education. Mrs. Francis, fondly known as Maggie, received her four-year degree in May 2001 at the age of 78. The funds, rewarded annually, will be maintained for the support of said scholarship. The scholarship will be rewarded to undergraduate students at Bluefield University who meet the criterion established by the donor. Scholarships shall be awarded based on financial need with preference given to a student majoring in art, art education, or graphic communication. Recipients must maintain satisfactory academic performance in accordance with the academic progress statement of the University catalog.
Dorothea Van Deusen Opdyke Scholarship
The Dorothea Van Deusen Opdyke scholarship is designed for “the education of mountain people”. Recipients must be Baptist and must be native of a mountain area of the United States. First consideration will be given to students with unmet need. The scholarship amount for the year is estimated to be $1,000. Please submit the completed application to the BU financial aid office by the final deadline of July 1st.
Eliz Shelton Fine Arts Scholarship
Scholarships shall be awarded to current or incoming students of Bluefield University who are recognized by the committee as possessing outstanding musical abilities.
Fugate Scholarship
The scholarship recipient must be a resident of Tazewell, Buchanan, or Dickenson counties in Virginia. The recipient must be a member of a Southern Baptist Church and should be majoring in the environmental sciences or mathematics. Students must do well academically and should be of good moral character.
Glory Days Scholarship
The Glory Days Endowed Scholarship (Glory Days Scholarship) was established in 2020 thanks to the generosity of classmates, teammates, and coaches from the late 1980s and early 1990s of Bluefield University. Initiated by former baseball and basketball coach, Mark Blevins, The Glory Days Endowed Scholarship is meant to honor the student-athletes of the 1980s and early-1990s who coined their time at Bluefield University as the “Glory Days” due to significant athletic achievements, lasting friendships, and comradery. The glory days were some of the most successful in the history of Bluefield University athletics, specifically on the basketball court and the baseball field. In fact, many of the student-athletes from that era, as well as coach Mark Blevins, are listed in Bluefield University’s Athletics Hall of Fame. The founders of the Glory Days Scholarship wish to honor the life-long friendships, lasting memories, athletic achievements, and perseverance of the student-athletes from the glory days at Bluefield University. Further, they challenge the student-athletes of today and tomorrow to make and cherish their own glory days.
James C. Ramey, Sr. Endowed Scholarship
Mr. James C. Ramey Sr. was an entrepreneur and a benevolent resident of Tazewell County, VA. He believed in people and their potential. He has worked tirelessly and has given generously to projects to improve youth sports facilities and support young athletes in our communities. This scholarship is for high school graduates within Tazewell County, Virginia, or in Mercer County, West Virginia. Applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA and should exemplify honesty, integrity, initiative, and hard work. Applicant must submit a letter of recommendation along with a personal letter with the application.
Jason D. Elswick Scholarship
Jason David Elswick was a 2002 graduate of Tazewell High School and had the ambition to become a math teacher. Unfortunately, his life was cut short on October 14, 2005, at the young age of 21. He had such a desire to help local students receive an education that his family and friends established the Jason David Elswick Memorial Scholarship. Recipients of The Jason David Elswick Scholarship are to be graduates of Tazewell High School in Tazewell, Virginia. In the event that no students from Tazewell High qualify, students from any high school located in Tazewell County may qualify as recipients. Qualifying students should be seeking a teacher licensure in mathematics and must have and maintain at least a 2.5-grade point average to qualify or to continue to qualify for this scholarship. In the event that there are no students seeking teacher licensure in math, students who are going into any teaching field may apply. Students should exemplify strong Christian character, as expressed in an essay to be submitted during the application process to Bluefield University. A letter of recommendation, written by a teacher, is also requested. Preference shall be given to students who demonstrate a financial need.
Joe Burton Scholarship
Pastor Joe Burton was a man who praised God and showed his love of Christ. Due to his great character and the impact he left, his church members of First Baptist Church made a contribution to Bluefield University in Pastor Burton’s honor. The recipient of this scholarship is to be a student in preparation of Denominational Services. In the event that the scholarship is not distributed in the above fashion, it can be given to any student in a hardship situation.
JP Jardine Music Scholarship
The JP Jardine Scholarship is established in memory of JP Jardine, a long-time music professor at Bluefield University. Mr. Jardine taught voice, music theory, and music history, and directed the choir at Bluefield University from 1972 to 1992. During these years, he blessed the lives of countless students. Students eligible for awards from this scholarship shall be deserving students in the Bluefield University music program with preference given to upperclassmen who have demonstrated unique dedication and accomplishments in their work as music majors. Recipients shall be full-time students and receive the awards each academic year, until graduation, by maintaining a 3.0-grade point average and by remaining in good standing with the University.
Kathryn Hoback Education Scholarship
Kathryn Hoback was a blessing to all who knew her. She was a teacher at heart and taught in public schools, Sunday Schools, and numerous ladies’ Bible School classes. She was a devoted wife and mother who dearly loved her family and was active in the community, serving in leadership positions with numerous local organizations. She passed away at the age of eighty-one and her husband, G. Harold Hoback, established a scholarship in her memory. This scholarship is intended to benefit students seeking teacher licensure.
Longworth Scholarship
Recipients of this scholarship are to be current or upcoming students who are majoring in Criminal Justice. Recipients should have good qualities of character and a need for this scholarship.
Louise & Dennis Leary Scholarship
Louise Thomas was born in Halifax County, Virginia. She later became a school teacher in Richlands, Virginia, while living in Tazewell County. This is where she met Dennis, her husband; they lived in Beckley, West Virginia, for many years. Recipients of the Louise Thomas & Dennis Leary Scholarship are to be full-time students and residents from Halifax, Campbell, Tazewell, or Allegheny, VA (including Covington); or Raleigh, WV. Qualifying students must be majoring in one of the following fields of study: Education or Christian Studies. Preference shall be given to students with a demonstrated financial need. It is the founder’s desire that the scholarship would follow a student through each of his or her college years at Bluefield University, providing that the recipient maintains at least a 3.0-grade point average and does not receive any disciplinary sanctions.
Martha Louse Martin Memorial Scholarship Fund
The Martha Louise Martin Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to honor Martha Louise Martin, who served Eastland Baptist Church in Nashville, Tennessee, as a pianist for 20 years from 1957 to 1977 and organist for 13 years from 1977 to 1990. Miss Martin was also a public school teacher and librarian. The scholarship will provide a $1,000 award each year to a Bluefield University student planning a career in church music. Recipients of the scholarship are to be full-time students who are “dedicated Christ-followers, members of a Baptist church, and avid participants in a church music program.” Candidates must also be “talented instrumentalists” as well as “above-average achievers” in their studies, including high school. In addition, they must be individuals involved in community activities, engaged in missions, and committed to spreading the Gospel through their future employment.
McDougle Scholarship
First preference is to be given to students who plan to obtain teacher licensure in elementary education. Preference shall also be given to students with a demonstrated financial need. It is the founder’s desire that the scholarship follow a student through each of his or her college years. No particular major is required, but the student should be a Christian who is active in his/her church.
Nelson T. & Ethel Barker Scholarship
Reverend and Mrs. Nelson T. Barker spent many years in Tazewell County ministering to its residents. Nelson T. Barker was a graduate of King College in Bristol, Tennessee, and Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Around 1940, he became the pastor of First Baptist Church in Richlands, Virginia, and remained there for over twenty years. Ethel Raines Barker was a graduate of Virginia Intermont College in Bristol, Virginia, and attended the Carver School of Missions and Southern Seminary. She was also active in the missions, organizations, and activities of First Baptist Church during the same years. Recipients of the Nelson T. and Ethel R. Barker Memorial Scholarship are to be from Southwest Virginia, with preference given to residents of Tazewell and Buchanan counties. In the event that no students from this region qualify, students from anywhere in Virginia may qualify as recipients. Students with a demonstrated financial need, as determined by the Bluefield University Financial Aid Office, shall be given preferential treatment in the awarding process. Qualifying students should have a sensed call to full-time Christian service, including youth, music, Christian education, or full-time pastorate ministries. Recipients must have and maintain at least a 2.5-grade point average to qualify or continue to qualify for this scholarship.
Will Gordon Scholarship for Business
Recipients are to be full-time students with a GPA of 2.0 or higher and be in good standing with Bluefield University. Preference is given to students from Culpeper, Madison, Orange, Rappahannock, and Fauquier Counties in Virginia. Preference will also be given to students that are affiliated to Ruritan National by being a member, an associate member, or having a parent or grandparent as a Ruritan member. Scholarship consideration will be given based on financial need. To apply, complete the application before or by April 1st.
Rev. David L. Bailey Scholarship
Rev. David L. Bailey, Sr. attended Bluefield University during the early 1920s and was called to enter the Christian ministry and attended Southern Seminary. This scholarship is established in honor of him and his wife, Katheryne Chocklett Bailey. This is for non-traditional students who are not high school graduates and who are going into Christian ministry.
Shirley Chapman-Meador Scholarship
Ms. Shirley Chapman-Meador, a native of Saltville, Virginia, attended Bluefield University in the early 1970s. She received her degree in 1973 and went on to earn additional degrees from East Tennessee State and Virginia Polytechnic Institute. She has made teaching her life’s work. Because of the struggles Shirley faced as a young woman wanting to attend college and her love for teaching, she has chosen to help others through the establishment of this scholarship. Recipients of the Chapman-Meador Scholarship for Education are to be students who plan to become teachers. In the event that Bluefield University ever ceases to offer training for teacher education, the criteria may be enlarged to include other fields of study which most closely match the original intent. Candidates for the scholarship must have at least a “C” average or its equivalent in high school.
Stafford L. Compton Scholarship
Recipients of the Stafford L. Compton Scholarship for Ministry and Missions are to be students who plan to serve in the field of Christian ministry and missions. First preference shall be given to students from the Virginia counties of Tazewell, Buchanan, and Russell. If necessary, the field may be broadened to include any student from Southwest Virginia.
W. James Lowder Min. Scholarship
An annual award is to be made to a student(s) from Southwest Virginia or Southern West Virginia that plan to pursue a career in the ministry. In the event that no students from this geographic region apply, then any Baptist student who is pursuing the ministry may be considered. All scholarship recipients should maintain a cumulative college grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Beneficiaries of the fund shall be students representing and possessing qualities of Christian character whose conduct, character, and qualities shall be representative of the principles of Christianity. This is a need-based scholarship.
William D. Evans Scholarship
William D. Evans is a native of Clarksburg, West Virginia. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics from Clemson University in 1970. He continued his education at Virginia Tech and graduated with an M.B.A. degree in 1974. Bill was chosen to help future students at Bluefield University through the establishment of this scholarship. He understands the importance of a college education and more importantly, the positive impact that school teachers have in the classroom. Preference is to be given to rising juniors who plan a career in business. Recipients must have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher and also be in good standing with Bluefield University in order to qualify for this scholarship. Preference shall also be given to students with a demonstrated financial need.
The Walls-Farmer Endowed Scholarship
Open to traditional on-campus and online students seeking a degree and career in criminal justice. Must have and maintain a 3.0 cumulative college grade point average and not receive any disciplinary sanctions. Applicants need to demonstrate financial aid need. Application and short essay due by March 1st.
The Daniel G Bowman “Dean Dan” Memorial Endowed Scholarship
The Daniel G Bowman Memorial Endowed Scholarship was given in memory of Daniel Gene Bowman (1971-2014). For full-time students who have been directly impacted by cancer or whose immediate family have been directly impacted by cancer. Applicants should submit an application along with an essay that details how the student, and/or the student’s family, have been directly impacted. This scholarship will follow the recipient through each of his or her college years at Bluefield University, providing that the recipient maintains at least a 3.0-grade point average and has not received any disciplinary sanctions. The financial aid committee will review the applications and essays to determine a winner after July 1st of each year.
The Barbara Louise “Bobbie” Vinson Memorial Scholarship
The Barbara Louise “Bobbie” Vinson Memorial Scholarship at Bluefield University was established by Steve Vinson (’64) in honor and memory of his late wife, Bobbie Vinson (’63), who went to be with the Lord on January 22, 2020. For full-time students with a preference given to a Student who attends Angels Rest Baptist Fellowship. Students must demonstrate financial need and be in good moral and ethical standing among his/her University professors and peers. The financial aid committee will review the applications to determine a winner after July 1st of each year.
Trey McPherson Memorial Scholarship
Established in 2008 to honor the memory of a talented young man with a gentle soul and passion for excelling in knowledge. His enthusiasm for mathematics, business, and computer science and his enthusiasm for striving towards excellence shall continue through this scholarship. Recipients are to be full-time students who fulfill three major components. Firstly, they will be a rising junior or senior and have an academic performance greater than a 2.5 cumulative GPA. Secondly, their major must be Business, Computer Science, or Mathematics. And lastly, the student must have five hours of community service. Application due November 1st.
Drs. Generoso & Janelle Duremedes Endowed Scholarship
Drs. Generoso and Janelle Duremdes have been faithful supporters of Bluefield University. Because of their appreciation of higher education and their desire to help students receive an education, this scholarship was established. Open to students who are residents of Mercer County, West Virginia. They should exemplify the characteristics of honesty, integrity, initiative, and hard work. An incoming freshman or a current student must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher and must maintain the average in order to remain eligible. The applicant must provide two letters of recommendation from teachers, ministers, guidance counselors, employers, etc. attesting to his/her character. The applicant must also write a personal letter describing his or her goals and aspirations as well as the reason he or she should be chosen as a scholarship recipient in addition to completing an application. The financial aid committee in conjunction with the donors will review the applications and essays to determine a winner after June 1st of each year.
W.W. & Robbie Stephens Endowed Scholarship
Recipients are to be full-time students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be in good standing with Bluefield University. To apply, must submit a 2-3-page essay explaining how their Christian values, education, and characteristics will make them community leaders. Preference is given to students with financial need. Must apply by August 1st.
Online
Federal Grant Programs
The Federal Pell Grant is available to low-income students. Your eligibility is based on the outcome of your FAFSA and is FREE money granted to you by the Federal Government based on your need. This award ranges from $325 – $3,248 per semester. Some students may be affected by the Lifetime Eligibility Used requirements for the Federal Pell Grant.
Virginia State Grant Programs
Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) is a state grant for residents of Virginia. The annual award amount for online students will be $2,000 for the 2021-22 academic year. To be eligible, students must be a domiciled Virginia resident, complete the 2021-22 VTAG application by July 31, must not have moved to Virginia for purpose of attending a post-secondary school, and pursuing undergraduate studies online or the online Masters of Nursing graduate program. Students who have previously received VTAG in a prior award year do not need to complete the application.
Virginia Two-Year College Transfer Grant
The Virginia Two Year College Transfer Grant (CTG) has a standard award of $1,000 and up to an additional $1,000 for certain majors (science, teaching, mathematics, and nursing). To be eligible, students must complete a FAFSA, be an undergraduate in-state student (first time entering freshman no earlier than Fall 2007), be a Virginia domiciled resident, must not have moved to Virginia for the purposes of attending a post-secondary school, must meet the selective service requirements, have an EFC of $12,000 (or less depending on the year it was first awarded), must have earned an Associate’s degree at a Virginia two-year public institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 for the Associate’s degree, maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA at Bluefield University, and be enrolled full-time by fall semester following completion of the Associate’s degree (limited to 3 years). Applications must be submitted to be considered.
Almost every state education agency has at least one grant or scholarship available to residents, and many have a long list of student aid programs. Eligibility is usually restricted to state residents attending a college in-state, but that’s not always the case. There are annual deadlines for most programs (if you miss a deadline, be sure to try again next year). Click your state on this map from NASFAA to find out what financial aid programs may be available to you through your state education agency. Also, check out state and regional tuition exchanges and keep in mind that other state-sponsored aid may be available through non-profit organizations in your area.
The application is located under Forms and Resources.
Institutional Programs
Athletic Scholarships
Awarded by our coaching staff, this scholarship is renewable based on the criteria of the coach and the standards of NAIA. Limited awards are available.
The following scholarship applications are available for download from Forms and Resources. In order to be considered, completed applications must be submitted to the Financial Aid Office by the specified deadline.
Bluefield (VA) Rotary Club Scholarship For Online Learners
Four $500.00 scholarships shall be awarded to current or incoming students pursuing their education through the online format. Recipients of this scholarship must (1) be currently enrolled or plan on enrolling in the online program; (2) be full-time; (3) have and maintain a 2.0 GPA; and (4) meet the November 1st application deadline.
Catherine Corte Payne Scholarship For Adult Learning
Recipients of this scholarship must (1) be currently enrolled or plan on enrolling in the online program; (2) be full-time; (3) have and maintain a 2.0 GPA; and (4) meet the November 1st application deadline.
The Walls-Farmer Endowed Scholarship
Open to traditional on-campus and online students seeking a degree and career in criminal justice. Must have and maintain a 3.0 cumulative college grade point average and not receive any disciplinary sanctions. Applicants need to demonstrate financial aid need. Application and short essay due by March 1st.
Outside Financial Resources
Students are encouraged to apply for tuition assistance from outside entities to further reduce their tuition costs. Scholarships and grants are available from a wide variety of sources including, but not limited to: churches, community and civic organizations, local scholarship programs, veteran groups, and rehabilitative services. If you are currently employed, ask your employer about tuition reimbursement programs and employer pay.
It is important to notify the Financial Aid Office if you receive an outside award. This includes the award in your individual award package, which directly impacts your balance due at the beginning of each academic year. These awards must also show in your financial aid package to avoid federal over-payment conditions, which could affect your future eligibility for aid.
Finding scholarships and grants can sometimes be as simple as using keyword searches online related to your program of study, like “scholarships for psychology majors.” Here are helpful resources compiled by the Office of Financial Aid for you to search and apply for scholarships and grants outside of your Bluefield University aid package.
Helpful Links
Preferred Partners
Bluefield University partners closely with the following organizations that provide scholarships to students.
Outside General Scholarships
There are many scholarships available to students outside of institutional aid offered by Bluefield University. The following websites provide students the opportunity to search and find scholarships that can be applied for on an annual or monthly basis:
Annual Scholarships
Monthly Scholarships
Cappex No Essay Scholarship |
Courage to Grow Scholarship |
Discover Student Loans Scholarship Sweepstakes |
Niche No Essay Scholarship |
Sallie Mae Sweepstakes |
Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest |