The University of Alabama (UA) rolls out welcome arms and generous financial aid to transfer students, making it a smooth and affordable move to the Capstone. Through a variety of University of Alabama transfer student scholarships, UA makes academic achievement rewarded and economic barriers few. From competitive scholarships to automatic merit scholarships, UA's transfer-friendly model—fueled by the innovative Bama Fast Pass program—smooths the path to a debt-free degree.
This guide explores UA’s scholarship options, outlines the application process, and shares a success story to encourage transfer students to become part of the Crimson Tide.
Understanding UA’s Transfer Scholarships
UA offers a strong portfolio of transfer student scholarships for both in-state and out-of-state candidates. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and help reduce the cost of completing a four-year degree.
Automatic Merit Scholarships
One of the most accessible scholarships is the Roll Tide Transfer Scholarship, which awards:
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$3,000 per year for up to three years
Eligibility Requirements:
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Minimum 3.0 GPA
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At least 15 transferable credit hours from an accredited institution
This award is automatically granted upon admission—no separate application required—and reflects UA’s strong commitment to affordability. It’s ideal for community college and college transfer students seeking to focus on academics without heavy financial pressure.
Read more: Top 5 Unique Arizona State University Scholarships For Underrepresented Students
Competitive Scholarships
For students who excel academically, UA offers competitive awards through the Alabama Scholarship Award Manager (ASAM). The most notable is:
Community College Presidential Scholarship
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For in-state students transferring from Alabama two-year colleges
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Covers full tuition for up to four semesters
Eligibility Requirements:
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Minimum 3.5 GPA
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At least 45 transferable credit hours
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Renewable with a 3.0 GPA and full-time enrollment (12+ credit hours per semester)
Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarship
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Award amount: $5,000 per year
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For members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
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Requires 3.5 GPA and 45 transferable credit hours
These scholarships require an application through ASAM, which becomes available via the myBama portal upon admission. Apply early, as these scholarships are competitive and limited.
Read more: Why The Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Is More Than Just Money?
The Application Process: Your Roadmap to Funding
Thanks to the Bama Fast Pass program, the scholarship process for transfer students is streamlined and student-friendly.
Step 1: Apply for Admission
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For Summer or Fall 2025, apply by March 3, 2025
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For Spring 2026, apply by October 1, 2025
Submit official transcripts from all prior institutions. UA accepts credits from regionally accredited institutions—technical or remedial courses are not eligible.
Use the Alabama Transfers tool at transfers.ua.edu to confirm transferable credits via STARS Articulation Guides.
Step 2: Apply for Competitive Scholarships via ASAM
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After admission, log in to myBama
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Access the Alabama Scholarship Award Manager (ASAM)
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Complete the application, including essays and recommendations, if required
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Monitor ASAM for rolling-deadline scholarships
Step 3: Submit FAFSA for Need-Based Aid
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While not required for merit-based awards, the FAFSA (code: 001051) should be submitted by March 3, 2025
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FAFSA enhances eligibility for need-based awards like the Crimson Achievement Scholarship
Step 4: Maintain Scholarship Eligibility
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Most awards require a 3.0 GPA and 12+ credit hours per semester
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Students who fall below requirements may receive a one-semester probation period
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Final transcripts may improve eligibility (e.g., a GPA boost to 3.5 may qualify for the Community College Presidential Scholarship)
The Bama Fast Pass allows early planning—even in your first semester at a community college—to track progress and maximize your eligibility.
A Success Story: From Community College to Crimson Tide
Meet La'Keshia, a transfer student from Jefferson State Community College in Birmingham, Alabama. With a 3.8 GPA and an associate's degree, she had her sights set on UA’s prestigious engineering program.
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She was automatically awarded the Roll Tide Transfer Scholarship ($3,000/year)
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With encouragement, she applied for competitive scholarships via ASAM
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She received the Community College Presidential Scholarship (four full-paid semesters)
Thanks to these awards, La’Keshia entered the College of Engineering debt-free and now researches renewable energy systems.
“UA made me feel welcome from day one,” she says. “The scholarships gave me the ability to focus on my studies and pursue my interest in engineering.”
Her story showcases how UA empowers transfer students to achieve academic and professional goals.
Why UA Stands Out for Transfer Students
UA’s transfer-friendly culture and student support systems are unmatched. Key resources include:
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Alabama Transfers: Helps students plan for transferable credits
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Office of the University Registrar: Offers one-on-one guidance (205-348-2020)
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Veteran and Military Affairs: Supports veterans with benefits like the Post-9/11 GI Bill (205-348-0983)
UA’s vibrant campus life—featuring 600+ student organizations, including the Transfer Student Association—helps transfer students feel a sense of belonging.
The Bama Fast Pass program streamlines everything from admissions to class registration, enhancing the overall transfer experience. With 80% of students receiving some form of financial aid, UA’s affordability commitment is clear.
Making the Most of Scholarship Opportunities
To maximize your financial aid at UA, follow these tips:
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Apply Early: Aim for December 2024 for Fall 2025 enrollment to receive priority consideration
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Check Transfer Credits: Use Alabama Transfers to validate applicable credits
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Refine ASAM Profile: Submit strong essays and secure quality recommendations
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Explore External Funding: Use platforms like GoingMerry for additional scholarships
Your Road to a Debt-Free Degree
Scholarships at the University of Alabama—from the Roll Tide Transfer Scholarship to the Community College Presidential Scholarship—offer transfer students a gateway to both academic success and financial freedom.
Apply by March 3, 2025, use the Alabama Scholarship Award Manager, submit your FAFSA, and contact Student Financial Aid at 205-348-6756 for help.
Your journey to a debt-free diploma begins here—Roll Tide!
