Understanding need-based scholarships and how to qualify

Enter: need-based scholarships. You’ve probably heard the term before, but what exactly does it mean? And how do you know if you qualify?

Let’s break it all down: What these scholarships based on need are, who they’re for and how to get the financial support you need.

Need-based college scholarships are all about helping students who might not have the resources to cover college costs on their own.

They primarily look at your family’s income and financial situation, which can change from year to year.

Some scholarships also peek at your grades, leadership or creative talents, so if you’re juggling school, activities or community work, you could have more options than you think.

In simple terms: They bridge the gap between what your family can contribute and the cost of tuition, housing and fees. And like merit aid, you don’t have to repay this money.

It’s easy to mix them up, but knowing the difference can help you plan ahead:

• Merit scholarships: Awarded for achievements — think strong academics, leadership, creative talents or athletics.

• Need-based scholarships: Awarded based on financial need, often determined by your FAFSA results.

Bearcat insider tip: UC automatically considers you for merit scholarships when you apply for admission, but you must file your FAFSA to unlock need-based awards.

While each need-based scholarship has its own rules, common eligibility requirements include:

• Family income and assets: Scholarships look at household income, savings, and other financial resources.

• Student Aid Index: Calculated from your FAFSA, this number helps UC determine your financial need.

• Household size and dependents in college: More family members in college can increase your eligibility.

• Residency status: Some awards are specific to Ohio residents, like the Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG).

• Enrollment status: Most scholarships require full-time enrollment at UC.

If your family has limited resources compared to the cost of college, you’re likely a strong candidate. Filing your FAFSA early and accurately is the key.

To qualify for need-based aid at UC, students generally need to:

• Submit the FAFSA: Opens October 1 each year. UC’s priority deadline is early January.

• Provide accurate financial documentation: Include tax returns, income statements and other supporting materials.

• Maintain enrollment: Most scholarships require you to stay enrolled full-time.

• Meet renewal criteria: Many awards require a minimum GPA and continued financial need.

• Reapply each year: FAFSA must be filed annually to keep need-based aid active.

Some awards are automatic once you submit your FAFSA, while others may require additional forms or essays, so double-check the specific requirements for each scholarship.

Need-based aid isn’t just one thing — there are several categories:

• Federal grants: Like the Pell Grant, funded by the federal government and based on FAFSA results.

• State scholarships: Ohio students may qualify for programs such as OCOG.

• University of Cincinnati need-based scholarships: UC offers scholarships for students demonstrating financial need.

• Institutional grants: Additional funding from UC to help cover tuition and living expenses.

Here’s how to make sure you maximize your need-based aid:

• Submit FAFSA early: Priority deadlines matter, especially for UC-specific awards.

• Stay organized: Keep financial docs such as tax returns and income statements in one folder.

• Check scholarship requirements: Some scholarships require essays, additional forms or documentation of special circumstances.

• Meet deadlines: Missing them can reduce or eliminate your eligibility.

• Attend workshops or meet with counselors: UC’s Financial Aid Office can guide you through the process.

Bearcat insider tip: Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify, file FAFSA anyway. Many UC and state programs require it, regardless of family income.

Plan ahead to get the most aid:

• October 1: FAFSA opens

• Early January: Typical priority deadlines for incoming UC students

• Ongoing: Keep an eye on the UC Financial Aid Office, Catalyst and the Bearcat Portal for updates or requests for extra documents.

Next steps:

• Attend a FAFSA help session

• Meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss your options

• Keep a checklist of all required forms and timelines

College can be expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it work.

By understanding need-based scholarships, filing your FAFSA on time and staying organized, you’re already taking steps in the right direction. 

Check in with the UC Financial Aid Office to explore your options and make sure you’re getting every dollar you qualify for.