First-Year Merit Scholarships

SAGUARO SCHOLARS

The University of Arizona Saguaro Scholars Award will recognize outstanding Arizona resident, first-year students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement.

About the Award

This award is named for the Saguaro cactus, which was highlighted in President Garimella’s remarks at his installation as the University of Arizona’s 23rd President: “… the beautiful Saguaro cactus is considered a keystone species” which the University emulates as we “sustain our community … as a force for good.”

The Saguaro Scholars Award is designed to recognize stellar academic accomplishments and great potential, and also encourage recipients to remain in-state for their college experience. Approximately 100 Arizona, first-year students will receive the scholarship annually through a highly-selective awarding process.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Admitted, domestic, AZ resident, first-year students, graduating from an Arizona high school and enrolling at the University of Arizona the following fall semester.
  • Online nomination by a teacher, counselor, high school administrator, clergy, or community member by October 15, 2025.

Terms & Conditions

Award Information

  • Saguaro Scholars receive up to $60,000 over four years of undergraduate study; $15,000 per year (split annually between fall and spring terms).
  • Award cannot be combined with Arizona Assurance, top scholar awards (such as Flinn, Baird, Dorrance and Stamps), nor with tuition-based merit- or need-based awards such as: other merit scholarships, Arizona Promise, Arizona Native Scholars, and Qualified Tuition Reduction.
  • Award may be used together with federal aid (Pell Grant, student loans, etc.) and other scholarships/grants which are not limited to tuition/fees.
  • Award can be used toward tuition, fees, and additional educational expenses such as housing, meal plan, books, etc.

Review Criteria 

The Saguaro Scholars Award may be given based on a variety of criteria related to academic performance and potential, as well as the desire to distribute awards equitably across AZ counties. 

  • Students will be reviewed on their overall academic performance as well as the strength of their academic schedule.
  • Students will be reviewed on their clear demonstration of academic excellence through extracurricular involvement in writing, research, or other nonmandatory contributions.
  • Students will be reviewed on evidence of their academic potential and career goals, with the objective of retaining the strongest scholars in Arizona for their university experience. 

Additional Details

  • Award recipients will be notified by email no later than February 1, 2026.
  • Enrollment Management will partner with the University of Arizona Foundation to strengthen the cohort of scholars and provide opportunities for recognition, networking, and building connections between students, as well as with donors and key campus partners.