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How to Win Scholarships and Grants – State of Connecticut

College Scholarships, Connecticut, Financial Aid, Graduate Students, High School Students, Undergraduate Students

Photo of money with Connecticut highlighted

Connecticut is home to one of the most prestigious schools in the world. Yale University was founded in 1701 and it is the United States’ third-oldest higher learning institution. While the oldest in the state, it’s not the biggest. That honor goes to the University of Connecticut, which was originally called Storrs Agricultural School and founded in 1881.

There’s a rich history of higher learning in Connecticut, so if you’re planning on attending college or university there, you’re in good company. Paying for postsecondary education however, is easier said than done. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of scholarship and grant programs offered by the State of Connecticut. For these prizes, eligible students must be residents of Connecticut and/or attend a college or university within the state. Below you’ll also find a resource that can help connect you with private scholarships for which you may be eligible.

If government grants and scholarships are on your radar, the first step is to file a FAFSA. The FAFSA will help you access financial aid opportunities to help you pay for educational costs. You can find more information about how to apply by visiting the Federal Student Aid Office of the U.S. Department of Education.

Now, let’s cover what in-state scholarships exist for Connecticut college students.

Connecticut Scholarship Programs

The State of Connecticut Office of Higher Education offers one scholarship for state residents. You may qualify for additional federal and institutional funding after completing the FAFSA.  

Roberta B. Willis Need-Merit Scholarship Program

This scholarship award is for a Connecticut resident who is a high school senior or graduate with a high school junior year class rank of 20% or better and/or SAT scores of at least 1200 or ACT score of at least 25. Recipient must attend a Connecticut public or non-profit private college. Students must submit an application to their high school guidance office and file a FAFSA.

The prize offers up to $5,250 a year for full-time attendance in a four-year college program. It also extends up to $4,650 a year for full-time attendance in an accredited two-year program of study.

Connecticut Grant Programs

The State of Connecticut offers one grant for students attending a private or public college or university in the state.

Roberta B. Willis Need-Based Grant Program

This grant if for Connecticut residents who attend a CT public or non-profit private college. The recipient must have a federal Expected Family Contribution (EFC) within the allowable range. Applicants must submit a FAFSA and contact their college’s financial aid office for deadlines and further details.

The grant offers up to $4,500 for full-time study in a two- or four-year program of study.

Other Financial Aid Programs for Connecticut Colleges

Connecticut State Pledge to Advance CT (PACT)

Pledge to Advance Connecticut (PACT) is a program to support Connecticut students who qualify to earn a degree or qualifying certificate without taking on debt. PACT supports first-time students entering community college who meet the qualifications of the program. Pledge to Advance CT funding covers the gap between federal and state grants you receive, and community college tuition and mandatory fees. To receive PACT funding, apply, register for classes (6+ credits), and fill out the FAFSA. Entry into the program will be accepted on a first-come first-served basis.

Find More College Scholarships, Grants, & Financial Aid

To help pay for college, you can also use the BridgesEDU Scholarship Finder. It’s free and can help you get started on the road to paying for your tuition and education expenses. The scholarship database matches you with thousands of scholarships from all over the country, which you can easily sort through on your dashboard. You can also use our blog as a resource to help you create great scholarship applications. We are constantly adding new resources to help you find and win money to cover education costs. College and university scholarships are awarded throughout the seasons, so check back during the academic year for updates – you can likely qualify for many scholarships every year based on your community service profile, GPA, financial need, where you attend college, etc.

Finding college funding isn’t an unsolvable riddle. However, it’s understandable if you feel this way. Whether you’re looking for grant money available to Connecticut students or a list of general scholarships, we can help! By finding, applying for, and winning scholarships, you can focus on what matters most: your education!

A Resource List of Scholarship and Grant Programs in Your Home State