Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) is dedicated to fostering student success through various initiatives, including a robust scholarship program. While the term “CARE Scholar Program” might not be explicitly listed under that exact name, CCSU demonstrates its commitment to student care through a comprehensive range of merit-based and need-based scholarships. These financial aid opportunities are designed to support students who care about their education and are eager to excel academically, contribute to their community, and engage fully in university life.
CCSU annually awards over $3 million in scholarships, funded by public programs and generous donations to the CCSU Foundation. These awards reflect the university’s care in recognizing and rewarding students for their achievements and potential. Scholarships aim to alleviate the financial burden of higher education, acknowledging students’ hard work in academics, leadership, community service, and overall engagement.
For many scholarships, particularly those considering financial need as a criterion, students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This ensures that aid is distributed equitably and reaches students who demonstrate the greatest need, showcasing CCSU’s care for accessible education.
Merit Scholarships for Incoming Students
CCSU automatically considers incoming first-year, transfer, and graduate students for merit-based scholarships as part of the admissions process. There’s no separate scholarship application needed for these merit awards, simplifying the process and demonstrating CCSU’s proactive approach to student support.
For incoming first-year students in the 2025-2026 academic year, merit scholarships are awarded based on GPA, as detailed below:
| GPA | Merit Award Amount |
|---|---|
| 4.0 – 3.80 | $3,500 |
| 3.79 – 3.30 | $2,500 |
| 3.29 – 3.0 | $2,000 |
| 2.99 – 2.70 | $1,500 |
| 2.69 – 2.50 | $1,000 |
These merit scholarships for undergraduates are often renewable, provided students maintain the required enrollment and academic standards, reflecting CCSU’s ongoing care for student progress and retention. Award notifications are sent directly to students by the Admissions Offices. It’s important to note that need-based aid is managed separately by the Financial Aid Office.
Scholarship Opportunities for Current CCSU Students
Current CCSU students also have significant opportunities to access merit-based scholarships. Each fall semester, the university opens an application period for continuing students to apply for scholarships for the following academic year. Students are notified via email from [email protected] when the application portal opens.
This annual application process, typically running from early November to mid-December, is the primary avenue for continuing students to seek merit-based scholarships. A general application serves as the entry point for most scholarship consideration. Some specialized scholarships may require additional steps or qualifications, allowing for targeted support based on specific criteria.
The scholarship selection process is thorough. Applications undergo review by scholarship subcommittees and the University Scholarship Committee before final approvals. Awarded scholarships are then processed by the Financial Aid Office and credited to student accounts for the relevant academic year. Notifications of awards commence in May and continue through the summer, ensuring students are informed well in advance of the academic year.
For students seeking further scholarship options, the CCSU Foundation’s Endowed Scholarships webpage offers a comprehensive list of merit-based opportunities supported by private donations. This resource highlights CCSU’s extensive network of support and its dedication to connecting students with resources that care for their educational journey.
