Merit Scholarships

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Your Journey Starts Here: Apply for a Merit Scholarship

At University Liggett School, we believe that exceptional students — those who lead with curiosity, integrity, and empathy — make our community stronger. Our merit scholarships recognize students who reflect the very best of the Liggett Approach: academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to community and character.

These awards celebrate young people who strive to make a meaningful impact both inside and outside the classroom. Each scholarship honors students whose passions, talents, and leadership enrich our school culture. Together, our scholars help shape a vibrant, diverse community of learners inspired to explore, create, and lead with purpose.

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Liggett Merit Scholarship

New 9th Grade Applicants & Current 8th Grade Students

Half Tuition

Our most prestigious academic award honors students who exemplify the ideals of a ULS education - academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, strong moral character, and a drive to make meaningful contributions to their community. This scholarship is awarded to those who not only excel in their studies but also demonstrate a profound commitment to their communities, both inside and outside the classroom.

Since its inception in 2008, the Liggett Merit Scholarship has been made possible through the generous support of alumni and donors. This scholarship empowers high-achieving students to access extraordinary educational experiences, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Liggett Merit Scholars join a distinguished legacy of graduates who have successfully gained admission to some of the world’s top universities, including Princeton, Yale, MIT, and more. These scholars not only thrive academically but also continue to shape the future with their drive, talent, and innovative spirit.

Selection Criteria for New Students

All applicants who submit a completed admission application by the deadline are automatically considered. The selection committee evaluates candidates based on both academic and non-academic factors, including:

Academic achievement (GPA, transcripts, standardized assessments, and teacher recommendations)
Extracurricular involvement, talents, and pursuits
Community engagement and service
Leadership qualities
Creativity, initiative, and problem-solving skills
Overall character and integrity

Following the initial review, a group of finalists - typically the top 10% of applicants - are invited to interview with a special selection committee, which makes the final award recommendations.

Selection Criteria for Returning ULS Students

Current 8th grade students may opt in to participate in the Liggett Merit Scholarship process. Candidates are evaluated through a combination of assessments, academic records, faculty input, and interviews:

Completion of the 9th grade admissions assessment Interview with the admissions committee
Review of middle school academic records
Input from middle school faculty regarding the student’s contributions, strengths, and character

Selected finalists participate in a final interview with the special selection committee, which makes the award recommendations.

The Liggett Merit Scholarship is an opportunity to join a community of thinkers, innovators, and changemakers.

The Liggett Merit Scholarship Application deadline is January 20, 2026. Candidates must begin the application process by January 9th and attend one of the required assessment dates in order to complete the application by the deadline.

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Liggett Merit Scholarship Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible to apply for the Liggett Merit Scholarship?
Every student applying for admission to the ninth grade is automatically considered for the Liggett Merit Scholarship. To be eligible for consideration, all required application materials must be submitted, the assessment, and a school day visit must be completed by January 20, 2026.

Do I need to qualify for need-based financial assistance to qualify for the Liggett Merit Scholarship?
No. All ninth grade applicants are eligible regardless of financial need.

What does the committee look for in a Liggett Merit Scholar?
The committee considers a range of factors including academic achievement (GPA, school records, standardized assessments, and teacher recommendations), as well as non-academic factors such as extra-curricular involvement and talents, community service, leadership qualities, creativity and problem-solving, and overall character.

What happens if I am selected as a finalist?
The admissions committee selects 10-12 finalists who are invited back for an interview with a selection committee. Selection committee interviews will be held in the evening on Tuesday, January 27th and Wednesday, January 28th. The selection committee makes final recommendations for awards. All finalists are guaranteed an offer of admission and first priority consideration for additional scholarships and need-based financial aid (if qualified).

What happens if I am selected as a finalist?

The admissions committee selects 10-12 finalists who are invited back for an interview with a selection committee. Selection committee interviews will be held in the evening on Tuesday, January 27th and Wednesday, January 28th. The selection committee makes final recommendations for awards. All finalists are guaranteed an offer of admission and first priority consideration for additional scholarships and need-based financial aid (if qualified).

When will I be notified?
Liggett Merit Scholarship finalists will be notified by January 24th. Selection Committee interviews will be scheduled the following week. Final award decisions will be sent on February 10th.

Who do I contact with questions?
For questions regarding Upper School admissions and the Liggett Merit Scholarship, please contact Sydney Davis at 313-884-4444, ext. 407 or by email.

Merit Awards

For New Students Only

Spirit of Excellence Award New 9th grade students $5,000 - Renewable annually
This award honors students who embody the ULS Core Values — Community, Integrity, Respect, Excellence, and Empathy. Recipients demonstrate promise, compassion, and engagement both inside and outside the classroom. All applicants for 9th grade who complete their admission application by the deadline.
The Knight’s Award New 6th–10th Grade Students $2,500 - Renewable Annually
This award recognizes new students entering grades 6–10 who demonstrate exceptional talent, ability, or achievement in a particular area — academic, artistic, athletic, leadership, entrepreneurial, or other — that has the potential to inspire peers and enrich the ULS community. Recipients of the Knight’s Award are students who not only excel in their area of distinction but also show promise as active, engaged contributors to the Upper or Middle School community. All applicants for grades 6–10 who complete their admission application by the deadline are automatically considered for this award.
Briarcliff Scholarship New Middle School Students $5,000 - Renewable Annually through 12th grade
This award recognizes new middle school students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and exemplify high character and citizenship. Briarcliff Scholars are students who not only excel academically but also contribute positively to their school community through their actions, integrity, and engagement. All applicants for the middle school who complete their admission application by the deadline are automatically considered for this award.
The Head’s Scholarship New Students $2,500 – $5,000 - Renewable Annually
This award is presented at the discretion of the Head of School and the Director of Enrollment Management to a student whose contributions strengthen the ULS community and reflect the heart of the Liggett Approach. Recipients demonstrate excellence or meaningful promise in areas such as scholarship, character, leadership, innovation, or service. All applicants who complete the admission process by the deadline are automatically considered.

Don't miss your opportunity

All merit scholarships may be combined with need-based tuition assistance. Awards are renewable annually based on continued academic achievement and good citizenship.

To apply for merit scholarships, prospective students must first submit an application to University Liggett School with the application fee. In order to be considered for available scholarships, the full application must be completed by posted deadlines.

Start your application by January 9th.

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