University of Michigan Scholarships for Law, Freshmen, and International Students (2025/2026)

The University of Michigan (U-M) is one of the top public universities in the United States, offering a wide range of scholarships to support students, including law students, incoming freshmen, and international students. As higher education costs continue to rise, securing a scholarship at the University of Michigan can significantly reduce financial burdens.

This article provides a detailed guide on scholarships available at the University of Michigan for the 2025/2026 academic year, covering funding options for:

• International students
• Incoming freshmen
• Law students

If you are an aspiring student looking for financial aid opportunities at U-M, this guide will help you explore various scholarships, eligibility requirements, and application procedures.

University of Michigan Scholarships for International Students (2025/2026)

Many international students seek scholarships to study at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. While the university has limited need-based financial aid for international students, there are several merit-based and external scholarships available.

1. University of Michigan International Student Scholarships

Some scholarships at the University of Michigan are specifically designed for international students, helping them manage tuition and living costs.

A. The International Undergraduate Scholarship

• Available for non-U.S. citizens applying for undergraduate programs.
• Based on academic excellence and leadership potential.
• Award amount varies based on need and merit.

B. The Go Blue Global Scholarship

• Supports international students pursuing a full-time undergraduate degree.
• Open to students demonstrating high academic achievement.
• Covers partial tuition costs.

C. The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (External)

• Available for international graduate students, including law students.
• Covers full tuition, living stipend, and additional expenses.
• Highly competitive and requires strong academic and leadership credentials.

2. External Scholarships for International Students

In addition to university-based scholarships, international students can apply for external funding options, such as:

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program
• A fully funded scholarship for graduate students.
• Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
• Available for students from developing countries.
• AAUW International Fellowships
• Supports women from other countries pursuing graduate studies in the U.S.

University of Michigan Scholarships for Incoming Freshmen (2025/2026)

Incoming freshmen at the University of Michigan can apply for various merit-based and need-based scholarships. These scholarships help reduce the cost of tuition and support academic excellence.

1. University of Michigan Freshman Scholarships

A. The HAIL Scholarship

• Designed for high-achieving students from Michigan with financial need.
• Covers full tuition for four years.
• Applicants must have a strong academic record and demonstrate financial need.

B. The Michigan Competitive Scholarship (MCS)

• Available to Michigan residents who demonstrate academic excellence.
• Requires a high SAT/ACT score.
• Covers a portion of tuition costs.

C. The Stamps Scholarship

• One of the most prestigious merit-based scholarships at U-M.
• Offers full tuition, housing, and enrichment funds for selected students.
• Highly competitive, awarded to students with exceptional leadership and academic achievements.

D. The Regents Merit Scholarship

• Awarded based on academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
• Open to both in-state and out-of-state students.
• Provides partial tuition coverage.

University of Michigan Law Scholarships (2025/2026)

Law students at the University of Michigan have access to various scholarships to help them finance their legal education. U-M’s Law School offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships for JD (Juris Doctor) and LLM (Master of Laws) students.

1. University of Michigan Law School Scholarships

A. Michigan Law Merit Scholarships

• Available for high-achieving law students.
• Covers partial to full tuition.
• Applicants are automatically considered upon admission.

B. Dean’s Public Service Fellowships

• Awarded to students pursuing careers in public service law.
• Provides tuition assistance and summer stipends.

C. The Darrow Scholarship

• A full-tuition scholarship for outstanding JD applicants.
• Requires exceptional academic and leadership achievements.

D. The Groves Law Scholarship

• Supports students from underrepresented backgrounds in law.
• Covers partial tuition and provides mentorship opportunities.

2. External Scholarships for Law Students

Many law students apply for external scholarships to supplement their financial aid. Some top options include:

• The American Bar Association (ABA) Legal Opportunity Scholarship
• Offers up to $15,000 to law students.
• The NAACP Legal Defense Fund Scholarship
• Supports students pursuing a career in civil rights law.
• The Public Interest Law Fellowship
• For students planning to work in nonprofit or government legal sectors.

How to Apply for University of Michigan Scholarships

Step 1: Complete the FAFSA or CSS Profile

• U.S. citizens and permanent residents should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• International students must complete the CSS Profile if applying for need-based aid.

Step 2: Submit Scholarship Applications

• Some scholarships are automatically considered with your admission application.
• Others require separate applications, including essays and recommendation letters.

Step 3: Meet Deadlines

• Freshman scholarships: December 1, 2025
• Law scholarships: Rolling deadlines based on program
• International scholarships: Varies by program

Step 4: Maintain Academic Performance

• Many scholarships require students to maintain a minimum GPA to continue receiving funding.

Conclusion

The University of Michigan offers a variety of scholarships for international students, freshmen, and law students. Whether you are an incoming freshman looking for merit-based aid, an international student seeking financial support, or a law student in need of tuition assistance, there are numerous funding opportunities available for the 2025/2026 academic year.

By applying early and meeting eligibility criteria, students can maximize their chances of securing financial aid and reducing their tuition costs at the University of Michigan.