APU's ScholarshipUniverse: Key 2026-27 Aid
Azusa Pacific University uses its ScholarshipUniverse platform to connect students with financial aid, including academic awards, full-tuition scholarships, and support for specific fields and veterans.
Azusa Pacific University (APU) states that 100 percent of its incoming undergraduate students receive financial aid. The university, which it calls California's top Christian institution according to The Wall Street Journal, uses a tool called ScholarshipUniverse. This platform helps students find and apply for scholarships.
Many students do not fully utilize scholarships. They may be unaware of opportunities. They might be unsure of the process or uncertain about their eligibility. ScholarshipUniverse is designed to address this. It allows students to filter for scholarships, view matches, review requirements and deadlines, and apply directly.
The platform shows both internal and external awards. Students can see details like the awarding organization, opening and closing dates, and total amounts. APU offers a wide range of scholarships. These target different student backgrounds and goals.
Key Undergraduate Scholarships
APU's main undergraduate scholarships are academic awards. These range from $15,000 to $24,000 per academic year. Eligible full-time freshmen are automatically considered based on their GPA. No separate application is required. Students learn which level they qualify for upon admission.
A premier opportunity is the Trustees’ Scholarship. It is a full-tuition award given to five students annually. The application deadline is February 1, 2027. Applicants must complete the general APU application. They must also submit a personal essay and provide two reference letters. Finalists interview during Trustees’ Weekend. Those not selected still receive the $24,000-per-year President’s Scholarship. They are also eligible for other automatic awards.
Another leadership-focused award is the Multi-Ethnic Leadership Scholarship (MEL). It is valued at $11,000 per year. It is for incoming freshmen who demonstrate strong leadership and a commitment to advocating for diversity on campus. Applicants need a 3.2 GPA. They need a commitment to their Christian faith. They also need a passion for multicultural awareness and proven leadership skills. Finalists participate in an on-campus or Zoom interview.
Scholarships for Specific Fields
Students in computer science, engineering, mathematics, applied mathematics, or physics (CEMPS) can apply for CEMPS Fellowships. Five fellowships are available per program. They provide $1,000 for first-year students. Eligible returning students receive $2,000 per year. Selection considers GPA, SAT or ACT scores, and math and science coursework. Selected students must meet fellowship guidelines.
Aid for Veterans
For veterans, APU participates in the Yellow Ribbon Award program with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The award provides up to $14,000 in institutional aid from APU. The VA matches this amount. To apply, students must submit an eligibility request to the VA. They must also contact APU’s VA certifying official.
| Scholarship | Annual Amount | Key Eligibility/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Scholarships | $15,000 - $24,000 | Automatic consideration for eligible freshmen based on GPA. |
| Trustees’ Scholarship | Full Tuition | For 5 students; deadline Feb 1, 2027; requires essay & references. |
| President’s Scholarship | $24,000 | Awarded to Trustees’ Scholarship finalists not receiving the full-tuition award. |
| Multi-Ethnic Leadership (MEL) | $11,000 | For freshmen with 3.2+ GPA, leadership, commitment to diversity & Christian faith. |
| CEMPS Fellowship (First-Year) | $1,000 | For CEMPS majors; based on GPA, test scores, coursework. |
| CEMPS Fellowship (Returning) | $2,000 | For eligible returning CEMPS majors. |
| Yellow Ribbon Award | Up to $14,000 (matched by VA) | For veterans; requires VA eligibility request. |
APU encourages all students to explore ScholarshipUniverse. They can discover what they qualify for. The university states that scholarships can make its Christ-centered education more affordable and accessible.
