Flinn Scholarship
Offered by Flinn Foundation
About This Scholarship
The Flinn Scholarship is Arizona's flagship merit award, funded by the Phoenix-based Flinn Foundation since 1986. The scholarship is valued at more than $135,000 and covers tuition, fees, housing, and meals for four years at Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, or the University of Arizona, plus funding for at least two study-abroad experiences.
Selection is intensely competitive: the foundation reports more than 1,100 applications each year for the scholarship class. Applicants need a minimum 26 ACT or 1230 SAT, and the review weighs academic achievement alongside leadership, community involvement, and communication ability rather than GPA alone.
The application includes biographical forms, two essays, a short-answer response, two recommendations, a transcript, and test scores. Finalist interviews take place in March, with new Flinn Scholars announced in April. Applying is free, and the award keeps top Arizona students in-state at honors colleges with dedicated mentoring.
Eligibility
- Arizona high school senior planning to enroll at ASU, NAU, or the University of Arizona
- Minimum 26 ACT or 1230 SAT test score
- Strong record of academics, leadership, and community involvement
- Must apply during fall of senior year through the Flinn application portal
How To Apply
- Create an account on the Flinn Foundation application portal (SM Apply) and complete the biographical forms, two essays, and short-answer response.
- Request an academic teacher recommendation and a leadership/service recommendation, and submit your transcript, school profile, and test scores by the early-October deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Flinn Scholarship cover?
The award is valued at more than $135,000 and covers tuition, fees, housing, and meals at one of Arizona's three public universities, plus funding for study-abroad experiences.
Can I use the Flinn Scholarship out of state?
No. The scholarship is only usable at Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, or the University of Arizona, typically through their honors colleges.