National Merit Scholars
The University of Alabama is among the top universities of choice for high-achieving students like you. Our strong community of National Merit Scholars reflects the exceptional academic resources and opportunities available at the Capstone.
You are invited to apply to UA for free through the UA Undergraduate App.* You can also learn more about the National Merit Scholarship packages and all that UA has to offer for students like you.
*Applications submitted through the Common App will continue to require UA's standard $50 application fee.
National Merit Finalist Package
- Value of tuition for up to five years or 10 semesters for degree-seeking undergraduate and graduate or law studies
- Four years of undergraduate on-campus housing at regular room rate* (based on assignment by Housing and Residential Communities)
- $4,000 per year undergraduate supplemental scholarship for four years**
- $2,000 one-time allowance for use in research or international study (after completing one year of study at UA)
National Merit Semifinalist Scholarship
Admitted National Merit Semifinalists with at least a 3.5 GPA after completion of their junior year are automatically eligible for the Presidential Scholarship. Presidential Scholarship information can be found on the In-State Freshman Scholarship page or Out-of-State Freshman Scholarship page.
* Regular room rate is defined as the largest room option in a particular dorm. Example: Riverside, Lakeside and Ridgecrest have four-person suites. The cost associated with the four-person suite would be the value of the housing scholarship in this circumstance. If you live in an alternative dorm where double room occupancy is the largest available option, then the cost associated with the double room would be the value of the housing scholarship.
** The portion of your supplemental scholarship paid by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation will be applied to your student account within the first six weeks of each semester.
Already applied? Remember, to remain eligible for the National Merit Finalist Scholarship package, The University of Alabama must be your college of choice with the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. If you make changes to your college of choice, UA must be renamed your college of choice before May 1, 2027.
Already admitted? Be sure to complete your next steps toward enrollment for fall 2027.
Majors and Programs
Choose from over 100 majors and programs! Many are ranked among the best in the country, offering opportunities far exceeding other colleges and universities. You may also change your major at any time after admission.
New College
You can forge your passions into a career path through New College by crafting your own unique major. New College students embrace opportunities for interdisciplinary learning.
Accelerated Degree Options
Take classes for undergraduate and graduate degrees at the same time. UA has four programs dedicated to expediting your master's degree.
Office of External Scholarships and Fellowships
The Office of External Scholarships and Fellowships helps students pursue some of the nation's most prestigious academic awards. Whether your goals include research, graduate school, leadership development, international study or public service, you'll receive expert support throughout the application process for opportunities such as the Fulbright, Goldwater and Rhodes scholarships.
Unique Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Our world-class faculty, professional staff and students are leading the way as we develop new technologies, advance scientific discovery and harness the power of creative thought to fuel the economy of the future.
Emerging Scholars Program
As an emerging scholar, you’ll work alongside award-winning faculty members on cutting-edge research.
Randall Research Scholars Program
This nationally recognized program is the nation’s first interdisciplinary undergraduate research program. Students work with faculty on research projects using advanced computing technology to complete scholarly research projects in any field of study.
Honors College
Many top students find a home in UA’s Honors College. Explore the selective programs offered by the Honors College where you can diversify your view of the world, hone high-demand job skills and rise as a leader.
Honors College Programs
Ranked in TIME Magazine's list of Best Colleges for Future Leaders 2026
Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Students
Over 40 National Science Foundation CAREER Awarded Faculty
Over 1,200 National Merit Scholars on Campus
Through Randall Research Scholars and the Blount Undergraduate Initiative, Architha Bommena had the ability to work on real research while also building a solid foundation in liberal arts. The emphasis on research and critical thinking Architha received is preparing her for a career as a physician. Unique programs at UA like these provide the tools, resources and opportunities for students to reach their highest potential in an advanced and progressive academic environment. Start building your future at The University of Alabama.
Find Your Community
Meet peers from all over the country who share your passions and challenge your perspectives at UA.
Student Organizations
There are nearly 700 student organizations at The University of Alabama. You can explore a full list at any time on UA's Division of Student Life website.
Weeks of Welcome
UA hosts Weeks of Welcome to help you find community quickly after arriving on campus. Over the first eight weeks of classes there are numerous events including, Get On Board Day, concerts, service activities and more!
Weeks of Welcome 2025 | The University of Alabama
Living-Learning Communities
These on-campus communities allow students to bond over academic goals or shared interests.
Visit Campus
Discover The University of Alabama through a fresh lens. Visit campus and meet current students and faculty who can share firsthand their experiences at UA. Tour state-of-the-art facilities and learn why students from Alabama join top students from all over the country at The University of Alabama.
Reach out to your UA admissions advisor to schedule a personalized tour, tailored to your interests.