"Fullest Consideration for Merit-based Scholarships"

<p>UNC requires that you apply by October 15 to receive "fullest consideration for merit based scholarships." I would like to know exactly what this phrase means and how it would apply to me. If I'm an average applicant (great gpa and top 1% in class, SAT 2060; ACT 32, but sub-par ECs), will applying by this deadline help me receive financial aid that I wouldn't otherwise? What if I get my SAT score back from October 6th and it's in the 21XX or 22XX range? Will that boost my chances? Note: I'm NOT applying early action. Thanks for any replies.</p>

<p>If you want to have the consideration for the most merit awards, get your application done by this priority deadline.</p>

<p>I gathered that from the description. I just wanted to know if I’m qualified for any of these scholarships even if I do apply by that deadline</p>

<p>Exactly what it means, you’ll have to ask the admissions office at UNC after going over what they have on their web site. What it usually means is that the money will be distributed among those who meet the criteria and have their apps in by the 15th. That pool of applicants will be compared among each other and matched with the scholarship money and will get whatever the school can give them depending on who else is in the pool, the funds available and the eligibility. Thereafter, you get what’s left, which could be none even if you meet the scholarship requirements.</p>