Our Vandal Promise
Student Funding Gap Focus of Donor-Supported Scholarship Program
U of I is proud to provide more than $25 million each year in scholarship support to our students.
But these scholarships, while immensely helpful to the Vandals who benefit, fall short of what is needed to cover the costs for most students. Even with grants, support from the state of Idaho, the university’s scholarships and student loans, the average U of I student still falls short by $5,000 each year in making ends meet.
Here's how that need breaks down, and what the university is doing to help bridge the gap.
The Support
U of I provides about $25 million in scholarship support to nearly 6,000 students each fall.
Students come from 46 states and all backgrounds.
U of I students will receive a total of over $100 million in financial assistance and scholarships each year through state and federal programs.
Of the approximately 6,000 undergraduate students who receive support, more than 4,000 are from Idaho and will receive over $12 million in scholarships.
Over 60% of U of I students receive federal assistance to help them pay for college in addition to scholarships and state financial assistance.
The $5,000 Gap
Even with those scholarships and financial aid, many students are faced with a gap. The average U of I student falls about $5,000 short in making ends meet each year.
Idaho families that can’t afford one year of college: 7 of 10
Number of Idaho students admitted to U of I who aren't able to attend because they can't afford it: 1,200
Approximate total cost of attendance for one year: $22,000
Estimated typical family contributions, federal grants, student loans, part-time work, scholarships: $17,000
Average unmet need: $5,000
The Drive
U of I scholarships have historically been given to students based on merit: 80% for merit as opposed to 20% for students who have a need.
The Vandal Promise aims to increase scholarship support for those with a need. Renewable scholarships valued at up to $5,000 help fill gaps for students with the demonstrated financial need. These scholarships are renewable for up to five years. Support comes from alumni and others who donate $5,000 annually for five years or provide a one-time $25,000 gift.
Can you help? Go to uidaho.edu/give for ways to support today's students.
Published in the Fall 2019 issue of Here We Have Idaho.