Scholars Program

The West Liberty University Scholars Program was established to attract top academic students. Students entering as a first-time freshman may qualify for one of three designations within the Scholars Program. In addition to receiving a four-year academic scholarship, students receive other benefits under this program. A 3.25 grade point average is required to remain in the scholars program.

For more information on the WLU Scholar Program, please contact the Financial Aid Office, at 304.336.8016.

Elbin Scholars

Students accepted for admission with at least a 3.75 high school grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) and at least an ACT composite score of 27 (1290 SAT1* combined ERW/math) are designated as Elbin Scholars. The Elbin Scholar designation is the highest scholar designation, and is named for Dr. Paul Elbin, who served as president of West Liberty University for 35 years. Students admitted as Elbin Scholars receive:

A minimum four-year academic scholarship offer of $4,000 per year (in addition to the PROMISE scholarship) for West Virginia residents and $12,000 for non-residents. Elbin Scholars with a 4.00 high school grade point average and 30 ACT composite score (1400 SAT1*) at the time of graduation will receive a full scholarship covering mandatory tuition and fees

  • General studies credit based on ACT sub scores of 27 (630 SAT1*) or higher
  • Priority scheduling
  • Enter WLU as a member of the Honors College
  • Transcript designation as an Elbin Scholar
  • Recognition at graduation as an Elbin Scholar

Presidential Scholars

Students accepted for admission with at least a 3.75 high school grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) and an ACT composite score between 24-26 (1160-1280 SAT combined ERW/math) are designated as Presidential Scholars. Students admitted as Presidential Scholars receive:

  • A minimum four-year academic scholarship offer of $3,000 per year for WV residents, and $7,500 for non-residents.
  • General studies credit based on ACT sub scores of 27 (630 SAT) or higher
  • Enter WLU as a member of the Honors College
  • Priority scheduling
  • Transcript designation as a Presidential Scholar
  • Recognition at graduation as a Presidential Scholar

Foundation Scholars

Students accepted for admission with at least a 3.75 high school grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) and an ACT composite score of 22-23 (1100-1150 SAT1* combined ERW/math) are designated as Foundation Scholars. Students admitted as Foundation Scholars receive:

  • A minimum four-year academic scholarship offer of $2000 per year
  • General studies credit based on ACT sub scores of 27 (630 SAT1*) or higher
  • Enter WLU as a member of the Honors College
  • Priority scheduling
  • Transcript designation as a Foundation Scholar
  • Recognition at graduation as a Foundation Scholar

Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic competence and/or special abilities. Scholarships are awarded by the Financial Aid Office to incoming freshmen on the basis of the ACT or SAT scores (not counting writing score) and high school grade point averages. Limited scholarships are awarded to transfer students based on university G.P.A. and high school grade point average, if necessary. Additionally, some scholarships are awarded by various departments of the university on the basis of students’ majors and/or special abilities. Application deadlines can be found on the WLU webpage.