Southwest Virginia Scholars Award
From $5,000 to free tuition!
From here, anything is possible.
We believe in your future, and we're ready to invest in it. That’s why we’re giving every eligible Southwest Virginia student an automatic $5,000-a-year scholarship — without a separate scholarship application or income requirement!
This program is for incoming first-year students beginning in fall 2027.
$5,000 is just the beginning
One scholarship can be a big help, but we're not stopping there. This award can be combined with other scholarships and grants to create an even bigger financial aid package. For students who qualify for significant additional financial aid as a result of the FAFSA, these combined awards may cover the full cost of tuition! Add to your support with these opportunities: $5,250 in-state tuition grant and a $2,000 visit grant.
Many are renewable all four years. Plus, 95% of Roanoke students receive need-based or merit-based aid.
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Scenario 1
Southwest Virginia residential student with 4.0 HS GPA and student aid index (as determined by the FAFSA) of $0
Tuition and Fees (estimated) $41,847 Roanoke College awards -$25,600 Visit Grant -$2,000 Southwest Virginia Scholars Award -$5,000 FAFSA Filer Grant -$500 Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant -$5,250 Federal Grants -$7,395 Federal Loans (optional) -$5,500 Projected Tuition Cost after Aid $0 Credit towards housing and meals (if needed) +$4898 -
Scenario 2
Virginia residential student with 3.0 HS GPA and student aid index (as determined by the FAFSA) of $20,000
Tuition and Fees (estimated) $41,847 Roanoke College awards -$24,433 Visit Grant -$2,000 Southwest Virginia Scholars Award -$5,000 FAFSA Filer Grant -$500 Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant -$5,250 Federal Loans (optional) -$5,500 Projected Tuition Cost after Aid $0 Credit towards housing and meals (if needed) +$836
Scholarship Eligibility
SWVA Scholars Award keeps it simple. No red tape or hoops to jump through. Family finances are not a factor at all. It's a straightforward scholarship for applicants who:
- Are residents of the following Virginia counties and independent cities: Bland, Botetourt, Bristol, Buchanan, Carroll, Craig, Danville, Dickenson, Floyd, Franklin, Galax, Giles, Grayson, Henry, Lee, Martinsville, Montgomery, Norton, Patrick, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Radford, Roanoke County, Roanoke City, Russell, Salem, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe.
- Are enrolling at Roanoke as first-time freshmen students beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year or later.
- Are enrolled as full-time, in-person, degree-seeking students.
Admitted students receive $5,000 per year toward tuition for four continuous years as long as they maintain a 2.0 GPA.
Investing in Southwest Virginia
SWVA Scholars is our commitment to supporting the beautiful place we're proud to call home. By making higher education more accessible, we strive to open doors and create paths for the next generation of leaders to thrive. This dedicated scholarship program — with no red tape or complex income criteria — will help more local students discover their passion, build new skills, and pursue their dreams.
Every day, we see the talent in our communities. Southwest Virginia is a region shaped by extraordinary people who care deeply about where they live and what we're creating together. We’re proud to support the students who will carry on that spirit, applying their energy and ideas to the pressing issues of the future.
Learn your cost
Your $5,000 SWVA Scholars Award is automatic if you meet the eligibility requirements. Complete your application — and your FAFSA, if you wish to be considered for need-based aid — to discover how much additional assistance may be available to you.
Financial Aid Office
221 College Avenue
Salem, Virginia 24153