If you’re an ambitious student seeking generous funding for undergraduate study in the United States, the Samford University Crosland Scholarship 2026 could be your golden ticket. Below, you’ll find the most up-to-date and comprehensive details, tips, and insights on this prestigious award.
Basic Information about the Scholarship
The Samford University Crosland Scholarship is a merit-based award available to both domestic and international students entering undergraduate programs. It is named in honor of the university’s first Rhodes Scholar and is designed to recognize and support students with strong academic credentials and a commitment to leadership and service.
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025, is the primary deadline to be considered for merit scholarships, including the Crosland Scholarship. Early preparation is advised!.
University/Institution Details
- Institution Name: Samford University
- Location: Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Type: Private, Christian university with a global community
- Acceptance Rate: About 82% (moderately selective, welcoming academically strong applicants).
- Student Body: Over 5,000 students from 29+ countries
- Accolades: High graduation rate (78%), vibrant campus life, and renowned for close-knit community support.
Study Areas (Available Programs)
As a Crosland Scholar, you can enroll in nearly any bachelor’s degree field at Samford, including:
- School of the Arts
- Howard College of Arts and Sciences
- Brock School of Business
- Beeson Divinity School
- Orlean Bullard Beeson School of Education
- Cumberland School of Law
- Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing
- McWhorter School of Pharmacy
- School of Public Health
- School of Health Professions
All major undergraduate specializations are eligible.
Scholarship Benefits
- Award Amount: Up to $17,500/year (partial funding, renewable annually for four years).
- Stackable: Can sometimes be combined with other scholarships (restrictions apply, such as not combining with the Marion Scholarship)
- Recognition: Belonging to an elite cohort of scholars with access to unique leadership and networking opportunities
- No Additional Application: Considered automatically after submitting your general application to Samford.
Benefits Not Included
The scholarship does not cover all expenses:
- Full tuition is not covered (partially funded, not fully funded)
- No guarantee of housing, food, health insurance, or travel costs
- Additional program fees, materials, and personal expenses are not included
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship
- For Freshmen:
- For Transfer Students:
- At least 24 completed undergraduate credits
- Minimum GPA: 3.5
- International Student Requirements:
Required Documents for the Application
To apply for undergraduate admission and be considered for the Crosland Scholarship, prepare the following:
- Completed Online Application (Samford App or the Common App)
- Application fee ($40)
- Official high school transcripts (with certified English translation if needed)
- Official SAT/ACT scores (optional for 2026, but helpful)
- Letter of Recommendation (at least one academic reference)
- Personal Essay or Statement of Purpose
- Passport copy (international students)
- Financial support documentation (bank statement, declaration form)
- Certificate of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo if required)
Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Research your program and prepare required documents early
Step 2: Submit your application for undergraduate admission via the [Samford website] or Common App by December 1, 2025
Step 3: Upload transcripts, test scores (optional), essay, recommendation, and proof of English if required
Step 4: International students: Submit financial documents (bank statement, support letter) after admission for I-20/visa processing
Step 5: You are automatically considered for the Crosland Scholarship (no separate application)
Step 6: Wait for admission and scholarship notification
Step 7: Accept your admission and scholarship by the stated deadline; complete any post-acceptance requirements for your visa, housing, and course registration
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply Early: Submit documents well before the December 1 deadline for best consideration
- Highlight Achievements: Demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community service in your essay and application
- Strong English Proficiency: For international students, ensure your English test scores meet or exceed requirements
- Provide All Documents: Missing or incomplete applications may not be considered
- Engage Recommenders Early: Give recommenders plenty of time to write thoughtful letters
- Show Commitment to Samford’s Values: Reflect on service, ethical character, and global engagement, as these are prized by the selection committee
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students at Samford (USD)
| Expense Category | Monthly Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Housing and Utilities | $1,100 – $1,300 |
| Meals/Food | $600 – $800 |
| Personal Expenses | $200 – $400 |
| Books/Supplies | $100 – $175 |
| Health Insurance | $150 – $250 |
| Transportation | $100 – $200 |
| Total Monthly | $2,250 – $3,125 |
Annual estimate: Approximately $14,260 for room and board in 2025-26, matching Samford’s cost of attendance for one academic year.
Why Choose the Crosland Scholarship? (5 Key Reasons)
- Prestige: Recognition as a top academic and leadership talent at Samford.
- Substantial Financial Award: Up to $17,500/year for four years means less financial stress.
- No Separate Application: Your general admission application is all you need—making the process efficient.
- Eligibility for Other Awards: In some cases, you may stack this award with others for even greater support.
- Vibrant Community: Join a dynamic, globally engaged campus in Birmingham, Alabama, renowned for student support and high quality of life.
- Strong Career Prospects: Access to mentoring, leadership development, and a robust alumni network.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is the Crosland Scholarship open to international students?
A: Yes, both domestic and international undergraduate applicants are eligible.
Q2. Do I need to apply separately for the Crosland Scholarship?
A: No. All undergraduate applicants are considered automatically—just submit your application to Samford.
Q3. What happens if my GPA or test scores are slightly below the criteria?
A: You may still be evaluated holistically, especially if you have strong leadership and extracurricular achievements; test scores are optional for some students.
Q4. Is the scholarship renewable? What must I do to maintain it?
A: Yes, renewability is contingent upon maintaining a minimum 3.5 GPA and good standing with the university.
Q5. Can the Crosland Scholarship be combined with other scholarships?
A: Sometimes; it cannot be combined with all scholarships (e.g., not with the Marion Scholarship), but check for stackable options.
Q6. What is the deadline?
A: To be considered for the Crosland and most merit scholarships, apply by December 1, 2025.
Q7. How do I prove English proficiency?
A: By submitting official test results: TOEFL iBT 90+, IELTS 6.5+, or Duolingo 120+.
Q8. What if my previous schooling was in English?
A: In some cases, you may be exempt from standardized English testing with documentation from your school.
This guide is your road map to successfully applying for the Samford University Crosland Scholarship 2026. Start your preparations today, and let your academic and leadership dreams flourish in the heart of Alabama!