Pittsburgh Promise
Chatham is a preferred partner of the Pittsburgh Promise. Visit the Pittsburgh Promise website to determine scholarship eligibility and to apply.
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Scholarships & Grants
Chatham University, in an effort to recognize academic excellence, awards scholarships to deserving incoming full-time students.
To qualify for a Chatham Scholarship, students must complete an admissions application, be granted acceptance to the University, and, in some cases, interview or audition. In addition, Chatham offers generous need-based financial aid. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to determine need-based aid. No other forms are required.
Undergraduate Scholarships & Grants
Merit Scholarship: $3,000-$16,000 Annually
Based on academic excellence, students may qualify for a Chatham Merit Scholarship. The scholarship amount will be determined once the student is admitted to the University. You do not need to submit a separate application for this scholarship.
Amount: $3,000-$16,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Presidential Scholarship: Full Tuition Annually
The Presidential Scholarship is an annually renewable scholarship that covers tuition for each academic year, for a total of four years (or 120 credits) of study at Chatham University.
Amount: Tuition annually
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Application deadline: February
Rachel Carson Scholarship: Full Tuition Annually
The Rachel Carson Scholarship is an annually renewable scholarship that covers tuition for each academic year, for a total of four years (or 120 credits) of study at Chatham University.
Amount: Tuition annually
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Application deadline: February 1
Heffer Family Scholarship for Women: $10,000 Annually
The Heffer Family Scholarship for Women is a $10,000 annually renewable scholarship awarded to female students who have a proven record of academic achievement, leadership capacity, as well as community and co-curricular involvement. Up to two (2) new scholarships are awarded each year.
To be eligible for a Heffer Family Scholarship, applicants will:
- Be female
- Have a minimum 3.5 high school or college cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA)
- Score 1100 SAT (Critical Reading + Math) / 24 composite ACT (not applicable to transfer students)
- Be accepted to Chatham University
- Complete a Heffer Family Scholarship Application coversheet including extracurricular achievements
- Complete a 350-500 word essay responding to a provided prompt
(View prompts on the application form) - Be a U.S. citizen or have resided in the United States for the four years preceding your application for the Heffer Scholarship
Amount: $10,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Application deadline: February 1
Rachel Carson Health Planet Award: $5,000 Annually
The Rachel Carson Healthy Planet Award will be given to a deserving high school junior from each high school across the United States and internationally who embodies the spirit of Rachel Carson in his or her dedication to sustainability and community development. Eligible students for this award are current high school juniors, in the U.S. and internationally, and must be nominated by a teacher, school counselor or advisor.
Amount: $5,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment
Application deadline: June 1
Academic Scholarship Days: Up to $3,000 Annually
Open only to accepted students, Academic Scholarship Days give students the chance to be rewarded for their outstanding leadership qualities. Students should attend Chatham University's Academic Scholarship Days to qualify for the scholarship. Participation in a scholarship interview day must occur prior to the student's first term at Chatham University.
Amount: Up to $3,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Legacy Award: $5,000 Annually
Awarded to children, grandchildren, and siblings of Chatham alumni.
Amount: $5,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Pittsburgh Promise Housing Scholarship: $2,000 Annually
The Pittsburgh Promise housing scholarship is good for up to four years for full-time, on-campus Promise Scholars who graduated from high school in 2018 or later.
Amount: $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Minna Kaufmann Ruud Music Scholarship: Up to $3,500 Annually
For qualified vocalists who plan to major in music or incorporate music into an interdepartmental major while a student at Chatham. Participation in Chatham Choir is required. To apply for this scholarship, please submit the completed application form. Once we receive your application, you will be contacted to audition. An audition is required.
Amount: Up to $3,500
Renewable: annually with annual audition
Instrumental Music Scholarship: Up to $3,500 Annually
For qualified instrumentalists who plan to incorporate music as a minor or music into an interdepartmental major while a student at Chatham. Participation in Chatham Music Ensembles is required. To apply for this scholarship, please submit the completed application form. Once your scholarship application is received, you will be contacted to schedule an audition. An audition is required.
Amount: Up to $3,500
Renewable: annually with annual audition
Immersive Media (Virtual Design) Scholarship: Up to $2,000 Annually
For students who plan to major in Immersive Media at Chatham University. Based on completed Immersive Media scholarship application. Students must submit portfolio (art or design work) or essay on why you want to study Immersive Media at Chatham University.
Application deadline: February 1. Applications received after February 1 will be considered only if funds are available.
Amount: Up to $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Priority deadline: February 1
Interior Architecture Scholarship: Up to $2,000 Annually
For students who plan to major in Interior Architecture at Chatham University. Based on completed Interior Architecture scholarship application. Students must submit portfolio (art or design work) or essay on why you want to study Interior Architecture at Chatham University.
Application deadline: February 1. Applications received after February 1 will be considered only if funds are available.
Amount: Up to $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Priority deadline: February 1
Family Tuition Grant: $2,000 Annually
Awarded to students who have a sibling currently attending Chatham.
Amount: $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Merit Scholarship: $3,000-$16,000 Annually
Based on academic excellence, students may qualify for a Chatham Merit Scholarship. The scholarship amount will be determined once the student is admitted to the University. You do not need to submit a separate application for this scholarship.
Amount: $3,000-$16,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Academic Scholarship Days: Up to $3,000 Annually
Open only to accepted students, Academic Scholarship Days give students the chance to be rewarded for their outstanding leadership qualities. Students should attend Chatham University's Academic Scholarship Days to qualify for the scholarship. Participation in a scholarship interview day must occur prior to the student's first term at Chatham University.
Amount: Up to $3,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Legacy Award: $5,000 Annually
Awarded to children, grandchildren, and siblings of Chatham alumni.
Amount: $5,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Minna Kaufmann Ruud Music Scholarship: Up to $3,500 Annually
For qualified vocalists who plan to major in music or incorporate music into an interdepartmental major while a student at Chatham. Participation in Chatham Choir is required. To apply for this scholarship, please submit the completed application form. Once we receive your application, you will be contacted to audition. An audition is required.
Amount: Up to $3,500
Renewable: annually with annual audition
Instrumental Music Scholarship: Up to $3,500 Annually
For qualified instrumentalists who plan to incorporate music as a minor or music into an interdepartmental major while a student at Chatham. Participation in Chatham Music Ensembles is required. To apply for this scholarship, please submit the completed application form. Once your scholarship application is received, you will be contacted to schedule an audition. An audition is required.
Amount: Up to $3,500
Renewable: annually with annual audition
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship: Up to $2,000 Annually
For transfer students with a cumulative college GPA of 2.0 or higher and membership in Phi Theta Kappa. Students must be Phi Theta Kappa members prior to the start of the term in which they are applying.
Amount: Up to $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Immersive Media (Virtual Design) Scholarship: Up to $2,000 Annually
For students who plan to major in Immersive Media at Chatham University. Based on completed Immersive Media scholarship application. Students must submit portfolio (art or design work) or essay on why you want to study Immersive Media at Chatham University.
Application deadline: February 1. Applications received after February 1 will be considered only if funds are available.
Amount: Up to $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Priority deadline: February 1
Interior Architecture Scholarship: Up to $2,000 Annually
For students who plan to major in Interior Architecture at Chatham University. Based on completed Interior Architecture scholarship application. Students must submit portfolio (art or design work) or essay on why you want to study Interior Architecture at Chatham University.
Application deadline: February 1. Applications received after February 1 will be considered only if funds are available.
Amount: Up to $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Priority deadline: February 1
Family Tuition Grant: $2,000 Annually
Awarded to students who have a sibling currently attending Chatham.
Amount: $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
International Student Merit Scholarship: $6,000-$16,000 Annually
Based on academic excellence, students may qualify for a Chatham Merit Scholarship. The scholarship amount will be determined once the student is admitted to the University. You do not need to submit a separate application for this scholarship.
Amount: $6,000-$16,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Presidential Scholarship: Full Tuition Annually
The Presidential Scholarship is an annually renewable scholarship that covers tuition for each academic year, for a total of four years (or 120 credits) of study at Chatham University.
Amount: Tuition annually
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Application deadline: February
Rachel Carson Scholarship: Full Tuition Annually
The Rachel Carson Scholarship is an annually renewable scholarship that covers tuition for each academic year, for a total of four years (or 120 credits) of study at Chatham University.
Amount: Tuition annually
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Application deadline: February 1
Rachel Carson Health Planet Award: $5,000 Annually
The Rachel Carson Healthy Planet Award will be given to a deserving high school junior from each high school across the United States and internationally who embodies the spirit of Rachel Carson in his or her dedication to sustainability and community development. Eligible students for this award are current high school juniors, in the U.S. and internationally, and must be nominated by a teacher, school counselor or advisor.
Amount: $5,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment
Application deadline: June 1
Academic Scholarship Days: Up to $3,000 Annually
Open only to accepted students, Academic Scholarship Days give students the chance to be rewarded for their outstanding leadership qualities. Students should attend Chatham University's Academic Scholarship Days to qualify for the scholarship. Participation in a scholarship interview day must occur prior to the student's first term at Chatham University.
Amount: Up to $3,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Legacy Award: $5,000 Annually
Awarded to children, grandchildren, and siblings of Chatham alumni.
Amount: $5,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Instrumental Music Scholarship: Up to $3,500 Annually
For qualified instrumentalists who plan to incorporate music as a minor or music into an interdepartmental major while a student at Chatham. Participation in Chatham Music Ensembles is required. To apply for this scholarship, please submit the completed application form. Once your scholarship application is received, you will be contacted to schedule an audition. An audition is required.
Amount: Up to $3,500
Renewable: annually with annual audition
Interior Architecture Scholarship: Up to $2,000 Annually
For students who plan to major in Interior Architecture at Chatham University. Based on completed Interior Architecture scholarship application. Students must submit portfolio (art or design work) or essay on why you want to study Interior Architecture at Chatham University.
Application deadline: February 1. Applications received after February 1 will be considered only if funds are available.
Amount: Up to $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Priority deadline: February 1
Immersive Media (Virtual Design) Scholarship: Up to $2,000 Annually
For students who plan to major in Immersive Media at Chatham University. Based on completed Immersive Media scholarship application. Students must submit portfolio (art or design work) or essay on why you want to study Immersive Media at Chatham University.
Application deadline: February 1. Applications received after February 1 will be considered only if funds are available.
Amount: Up to $2,000
Renewable: annually based on cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and full-time enrollment.
Priority deadline: February 1
Chatham University is pleased to announce its participation in the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program (Yellow Ribbon Program). A provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, the program provides matching funds from the Department of Veterans Affairs as a supplement to the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers tuition and fees not to exceed the maximum in-state tuition & fees at a public Institution of Higher Learning. The Yellow Ribbon Program covers tuition and mandatory fees and does not include room and board or books and supplies which are provided for separately under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. These benefits will replace merit scholarships awarded at the time of acceptance.
Individuals may be eligible if they:
- Served an aggregate period of active duty after September 10, 2001, of at least 36 months;
- Were honorably discharged from active duty for a service connected disability and served 30 continuous days after September 10, 2001;
- Are dependents eligible for Transfer of Entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill based on a veteran’s service under the eligibility criteria listed above.
There is no minimum number of credit hours required for participation and awards will continue in subsequent years in which the student maintains satisfactory progress, conduct, and attendance.
If eligible, students should apply for Benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill with the Department of Veterans Affairs upon acceptance. Please forward your Certificate of Eligibility to the Office of the Registrar to be considered for the Yellow Ribbon Program. Please visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website for additional information.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.
Credit where credit is due.
Chatham recognizes that life learning may provide a knowledge base equivalent to college-level learning outcomes. And we believe that knowledge should be rewarded with an opportunity to work toward a degree faster and at a reduced cost. As such, Chatham's Prior Learning Assessment program grants degree-seeking students the ability to be awarded academic credit for prior learning knowledge gained in advance matriculating at Chatham. Knowledge gained from employment, job training, independent study, open courseware, volunteer and civic duties, military service and travel are just some examples that may prepare a student to earn credit through our Prior Learning Assessment program.
Benefits of Using the PLA Program
- Accelerate Degree Completion: Using PLA can lessen course overloads and potentially allow students to take advanced courses sooner.
- Save money: Fees for credits earned through PLA are charged at a significantly reduced rate relative to Chatham University's undergraduate tuition rate and/or graduate per credit rate. Students can use PLA for up to 50% of their program credit requirement.
- Satisfy pre-requisites, general education requirements, or elective credits: Prior Learning often develops knowledge that aren't included on a student's transcripts. Using PLA can help students evidence their course-specific knowledge for pre-requisites, general education requirements, or electives that allows them to then focus their time and effort on subsequent program courses.
Who Can Benefit from the PLA Program
- Undergraduate Students: Transfer students, Gateway/Adult Learners (students starting Chatham at 23 years of age or older), Military/Veterans, and traditional undergraduate students
- Graduate Students: Traditional graduate students, Military/Veterans
Ways to Earn Prior Learning Assessment Credits
- Portfolio Development: Based on course-specific learning outcomes, students assemble a portfolio that consists of a written narrative along with supporting documentation that demonstrates a student's proficiency in the course learning outcomes.
- Credit-by-Exam: A student may earn credit for a course by meeting established guidelines on standardized or challenge exams as approved by program or department per department approval.
How to Begin the PLA Process
After you have contacted your admissions representative, please use the Prior Learning Assessment Contract (also located at myChatham) to determine and continue with next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many credits can be earned through PLA?
Undergraduate degree-seeking students may earn up to 60 credits through the PLA Program. For example, undergraduate students may earn 50% of their program credits through PLA. The remaining 50% must be completed through courses at Chatham. As many as 6 credits earned through the portfolio development program may count towards Chatham University's residency requirement.
Graduate degree-seeking students in eligible programs may earn a maximum of 20% of their program requirements through PLA and transfer courses.
What courses are eligible for PLA?
This answer varies based on your major or program requirements, credits transferred or recognized from other institutions and other PLA credits (e.g. CLEP exams, Challenge exams) that you have applied towards your requirements. PLA credit may not be granted for PED courses (Physical Education) or SDE (Student Development) courses.
How much does PLA cost?
Fees for credits earned through PLA are charged at a significantly reduced rate relative to Chatham University's per-credit tuition rates. Undergraduate: For the portfolio review option, the PLA rate is $83 per credit assessed* ($249 per 3-credit course). For the credit by exam option, fees for CLEP and DSST exams are $85 per exam plus an administration fee of approximately $20.
Military Service members may be eligible for free exams. Eligibility information can be found at the DANTES site here.
Graduate: For the Prior Learning Assessment the charge is 20% of the per credit tuition rate. For the credit by exam the charge is 10% of the per credit tuition rate.
Both options represent significant cost savings for your education, with fees sometimes less than the cost of books and materials for a typical course.
*The PLA fee per credit assessed is not eligible for federal or state financial aid; however, as a Gateway student, a no interest, no application fee payment plan is available.
