What is the application process for a merit-based scholarship?

You should complete the application process as early as possible (by the first deadline). As long as all required materials are received and an application package is deemed complete, you will be given priority consideration for all available merit-based scholarships (and fellowships). There are no additional steps required for merit-based scholarship consideration, but fellowships each require a specialized essay (included in the standard application under "Financial Aid" section). If you apply after the priority scholarship/fellowship deadline, you will still be considered for scholarships (but not fellowships). However, applications received by the priority deadline are much more likely to receive merit-based funding. Fellowships are only available to fall applicants.