Hello Adaanists,

So, you’re looking at Texas Tech University and thinking:

Totally valid. Because even though Texas Tech isn’t super hard to get into, and most solid students will get accepted, you still don’t want to get rejected by your backup, and you definitely don’t want to miss out on free money just because no one told you how to apply right.

If you’re applying to top schools but want a smart, affordable backup, TTU deserves a spot on your list.

Here’s the real talk: Texas Tech gives out a ton of merit scholarships, especially if you apply early, send in your test scores, and know how to check the right boxes.

I got a huge scholarship as an international student, and here’s exactly how you can too - step by step.

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Texas Tech isn’t gatekeeping. They’re building a career-focused, driven, diverse student body, and they’re looking for students who are:

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be intentional and know how to show your strengths.

Texas Tech wants strong students, but they understand not everyone’s a 4.0 valedictorian. That’s why they look at your full application, not just grades.

If you’re aiming for serious merit money, here’s what most top award winners have:

A 5.0 GPA in SSC and HSC is pretty standard for strong applicants.

If you’re under that, try to bring in a 1350+ SAT or 29+ ACT.

That combo still gives you a great shot at scholarships and in-state tuition.

If you’re a National Merit Finalist and list TTU as your top choice, you’ll get 100% of the cost of attendance covered: tuition, housing, meals, books, everything.

Texas Tech’s Presidential Merit Scholarships are based on your GPA and SAT/ACT scores.

The better your numbers, the more you get: up to $9,000 per year + in-state tuition, even for international students.

If you have a 1500 SAT and 4.0 GPA, you can get $9,000 per year plus in-state tuition at Texas Tech. Even with an 1100 SAT and 3.0 GPA, you’d still get $1,000 per year and in-state rates.

And if you apply test-optional but have a 4.0 GPA and are in the top 10%, you can earn up to $5,000 per year.

Must know: All awards include in-state tuition, saving ~$14,000/year if you’re from out of state or abroad.

Some colleges within TTU (like Engineering, Business, and Arts & Sciences) offer their own awards after you’re admitted.

These are based on your intended major, academic profile, and sometimes short answers or interviews.

Always check after admission - don’t leave this money on the table.

Once you’re admitted, check for major-specific awards. These can stack with your Presidential Merit Scholarship and boost your total aid.

Example: If you’re going into Natural Resources Management, there’s a whole scholarship section just for that:

💡Pro tip: After admission, log in to the Texas Tech Scholarship Portal and search by your major. You might find random, donor-funded awards that barely get applicants. Easy wins.

Want smaller classes, priority registration, exclusive scholarships, and cool study abroad options?

The Honors College at TTU is honestly fire.

You’ll get:

Yes, the Honors essay is separate - not the same one from your college app.

But if you’re serious about getting more from your college experience (and funding), it’s 100% worth doing.

You don’t need an essay for general admission, but here’s what you should do:

If you’re applying for scholarships or Honors College, someone will read it. Even if not, it helps your profile stand out.

As for your résumé?

Also optional, but smart to include.

It shows:

✅ Apply early.

The priority deadline for scholarships was Dec 1, 2024 for Fall 2025 - missing it could cost you thousands in free money.

✅ Study abroad?

It’s a thing, but you’ll want Honors College access.

Texas Tech has some really cool study abroad programs, but many of the best ones (plus the funding for them) are tied to the Honors College.

Get in, and those opportunities open up fast.

✅ Off-campus housing in Lubbock = crazy affordable.

A lot of students make a friend group, split an apartment, and end up paying way less than dorms, sometimes under $175/month each.

Full kitchens, private rooms, actual space.

If you want to live off campus during your first year and you’re under 21, you’ll need to submit an exemption request.

If approved, you can skip dorms and move straight into off-campus housing.

It’s a really smart move to cut costs!

✅ In-state tuition is the real cheat code.

Even a small scholarship gets you in-state tuition rates, which saves a lot if you’re out of state or international.

✅ Texas Tech Scholarship Portal = hidden treasure.

Check it early and often.

✅ On-campus jobs = $$$.

Internationals can work in labs, libraries, offices: great way to help cover food or rent.