2026 Application Guide for University of Texas at Dallas Terry Scholarship

Scholarship Awarding University: 

Type of degree: 
Bachelor’s

Scholarship Deadline: 
Applications for this scholarship will end on the  

Scholarship Summary: 
The Terry Scholars Program at UTD is a four-year cohort experience that provides academic, cultural, mentoring and service opportunities to Texan freshmen students, awarded prestigious scholarships from the Terry Foundation.

Scholarship Applicant Criteria: 
The following are the eligibility criteria for this scholarship;
•  Graduating senior of a Texas high school or home school
  • To avoid unforeseen delays, it is best to apply to UT Dallas by Dec. 1; you must be admitted to UT Dallas by Jan. 20 for consideration.
•  Demonstrate a strong record of academic achievement
•  Exhibit a notable record of leadership and volunteerism
•  Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) review – eligibility for need-based aid is not a requirement to receive the scholarship
•  Net annual family income - typically below $110,000 (subject to a case-by-case review)
•  U.S. Citizen or permanent resident
•  Texas resident

Value of Scholarship: 
The Terry scholarship covers the full cost of attendance each year (up to four years). This includes tuition/fees, meal plan, housing, textbooks and other educational expenses.

The Terry Scholars Program at UT Dallas also offers multiple student programming opportunities such as academic, service, cultural, and social events, mentoring, as well as leadership opportunities. In addition, students can receive $5,000 to help cover expenses associated with a study abroad trip.

Scholarship Application Guide: 
To apply;
1) The application will be available in early September in your . You should apply to UT Dallas first. You can begin drafting the essay questions below while awaiting admission from the University.

2) To access the Terry Scholarship application, go into your Galaxy portal, click on ‘Orion Student Center’ under ‘My Menu’ and ‘Orion Self-Service (Student)’ in the middle of the page. Click the Terry Scholarship tile to find the application.

3) In addition to the application, the following is required:
  • Official copy of high school transcript (transcripts submitted to UT Dallas Admissions cannot be accessed by the Terry Scholarship review board)
  • Two letters of recommendation (at least one from a high school teacher) (Due on January 20)
  • Short answers
  • Why have you chosen to apply to UT Dallas?
  • Please list up to six universities to which you have applied or plan to apply (include UT Dallas).
  • Why have you selected your major?
  • What are your future goals and objectives? (include any educational or post-baccalaureate plans)
  • Two Essays
  • Tell your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? Please do not exceed 750 words.
  • In approximately 500 words, describe an example of your leadership. Be sure to describe your actions and the actions of those around you and to explain what you accomplished.
  • More About You (fewer than 250 words each)
  • What are two interesting things about you?
  • What do you hope to accomplish at UT Dallas, academically and personally?
  • Select two extracurricular activities you participate in and tell us why you participate.
  • What service projects/organizations have you recently been involved with and how did you contribute?
  • Many students apply for this scholarship and only approximately 20 receive it. Why are you a good candidate?
4) Applicants will be notified of their status in early March. Those selected to move forward for an interview will be contacted by the Terry Foundation. Those not moving forward will receive an e-mail from the UT Dallas Terry Scholars Program. Interviews usually conclude in mid-April, and notifications are sent by the Terry Foundation before the end of the month.

5) An interview panel comprised of current Terry Scholars, alumni and Foundation members will interview you for 30 minutes where you will discuss your achievements, high school career, and future goals. You will also need to be able to discuss your financial situation with the interview panel, so be familiar with that information.

Find more on the Terry application process here.

Scholarship Website: 
Find further information on this scholarship opportunity at the UTD Terry Scholarship Page.