At the Missouri School of Journalism, we recognize students who bring strong academic achievement, curiosity and a passion for storytelling.

When you apply for admission, you’re automatically considered for Journalism School merit scholarships—no separate application is required.

These awards recognize academic achievement and encourage talented students to pursue their education at the Missouri School of Journalism.

Merit Scholarship Opportunities

Merit scholarships are available to incoming first-year students and vary based on residency status.

Missouri Residents

Missouri residents are automatically considered for the following renewable merit awards:

Walter Williams Scholars Award

Our signature merit award recognizes students with exceptional academic achievement and potential for leadership in journalism.

• Up to $1,500 annually
• Renewable for up to four years

*Please note Walter Williams Scholars Awards will appear on your financial aid status page as a different journalism scholarship named for one of the many generous alumni and friends who provide gifts and endowments to help the next generation of journalists and strategic communicators with the cost of higher education.

Archway Award

Recognizes students who have demonstrated strong academic preparation and a commitment to success at Mizzou.

• Up to $1,200 annually
• Renewable for up to four years

*Please note, Archway Awards will appear on your. financial aid status page as a different journalism scholarship named for one of the many generous alumni and friends who provide gifts and endowments to help the next generation of journalists and strategic communicators with the costs of higher education.

Sundial Award

Recognizes students who show academic promise as they begin their journey at the Missouri School of Journalism.

• Up to $1,000 annually
• Renewable for up to four years

*Please note, Sundial Awards will appear on your. financial aid status page as a different journalism scholarship named for one of the many generous alumni and friends who provide gifts and endowments to help the next generation of journalists and strategic communicators with the costs of higher education.

Non-Missouri Residents (U.S. Citizens)

Non-Missouri resident U.S. citizens are automatically considered for the Walter Williams Scholars Award.

Walter Williams Scholars Award

Our signature merit award recognizes students with exceptional academic achievement and potential for leadership in journalism.

• Up to $1,500 annually
• Renewable for up to four years

How Merit Scholarships Are Determined

Applications are reviewed holistically through the University of Missouri admissions process. Scholarship consideration may include factors such as:

• Academic performance and rigor of coursework
• Writing ability and communication skills
• Extracurricular involvement and leadership
• Opportunities available at your high school
• Optional standardized test scores (if submitted)

Students must apply by the December 1 priority deadline to be considered for Missouri School of Journalism merit scholarships.

Scholarship notifications are sent in the spring and are included as part of each student’s official University of Missouri financial aid offer.

Our Commitment to Scholarship Support

The Missouri School of Journalism is committed to recognizing academic achievement and investing in talented future journalists and strategic communicators through renewable merit scholarships.

Why It Matters

From your first semester, you’ll learn by doing—reporting, producing and publishing work for real audiences.

Merit scholarships are one of the ways we invest in students who are ready to take on that challenge.