Each year, Cedarville University awards donor-funded scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need, academic merit, or alignment with specific donor-established criteria. These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of alumni, families, and friends who are investing in the lives of our students — often in honor or memory of a loved one.
Selection Process and Criteria
- Donor-funded scholarships are typically awarded only to returning students who are full-time for both fall and spring semesters.
- All Cedarville students with a completed Donor-Funded Scholarship Application and a submitted 2027–28 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), if eligible, will be considered based on each scholarship's criteria.
- Scholarships are competitive and limited in number.
- Most donor-funded scholarships are need-based, so students with a higher Student Aid Index (SAI) may not qualify, but a few merit-based scholarships are available in most academic departments.
- Recipients are selected by the Financial Aid office and each department's scholarship selection committee.
- Some scholarships can be renewed for following years, if the recipient continues to meet the criteria and reapplies annually, but renewal is not guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I apply?
The 2027–28 Donor-Funded Scholarship Application is open October 1–31, 2026.
Do I need to apply every year?
Yes. You need to apply each year in order to be considered for donor-funded scholarships for the following year.
Do I need to apply for each scholarship individually?
No — most scholarships are matched to your profile after completing the Donor-Funded Scholarship Application. If any additional steps are required to apply for a scholarship, these steps will be clearly indicated.
Who decides which students receive the scholarships?
The Financial Aid office and the various department committees select recipients based on need, merit, and alignment with scholarship-specific criteria.
Where do I go if I need help?
Students with questions about donor-funded scholarships should contact Tim Entner in the Financial Aid office.
Donors who would like to learn more about establishing a scholarship fund should contact Kenzie Lord by phone (937-766-3324) or email.
Grateful to Our Donors
These scholarships are more than financial awards — they represent stories, legacies, and faithfulness. We are deeply grateful to the individuals and families who support Cedarville students through donor-funded scholarships.-
My time at Cedarville has been life-changing. I have grown in my knowledge of who God is more than I ever thought I would be able to, and for the first time in my life, I've seen students my age on fire for the Lord, which has encouraged me to do the same. I have also been pushed to pursue not only a quality education but also one where God is at the center of everything that is being taught. I have found lifelong friends and been challenged and equipped by faculty and staff who have a passion for their students, and an even greater passion for the Word of God.
I would not have been able to have any of these experiences if it were not for donor-funded scholarships. These scholarships have been pivotal in allowing me not to worry about how my next school bill will be paid because these scholarships have been graciously gifted to me. I am humbled by the generosity and love that have been shown to me through the provision of these scholarships, and so I thank you.
Thank you for allowing me to have the experience I have been able to have at Cedarville and for how you have shown Christ's love to me through your willingness to provide for students like me. I am forever in awe of God's goodness.
Reyna Golson '26, Strategic Communication 
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Coming to Cedarville was a big step of faith for me and my family. As an international student from Honduras, the cost made it seem out of reach, but donor-funded scholarships helped make it possible.
Because of this support, I’ve been able to study what I love, grow in my walk with Christ, and prepare to serve others through public policy. I’ve had the opportunity to serve as Student Body Vice President, represent Cedarville at the National Model United Nations, and learn from professors who lead with both wisdom and care.
Thank you for giving students like me the chance to pursue big goals with purpose and confidence.
Hugo Cerrato '27, Economics and International Studies 