Honestly, when I first heard about the Kotzen Scholarships at Simmons University, I thought it sounded too good to be true. A fully funded scholarship that covers everything? But here’s the thing – it’s absolutely real, and it’s one of the most transformative opportunities available for international students looking to study in the United States.
The Gilbert and Marcia Kotzen Scholars Program stands as Simmons University’s most prestigious academic award. This competitive merit award recognizes the best and brightest students interested in a transformative education at Simmons University, targeting exceptional individuals who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and leadership potential.
What makes this scholarship particularly special isn’t just the financial support (though that’s incredible). It’s the fact that this is the most prestigious award offered at Simmons and acknowledges excellence through a focus on study abroad, scholarly research, and intellectual curiosity. The program creates a community of scholars who push each other to excel academically while making meaningful contributions to society.
All disciplines and academic fields are eligible for the Kotzen Scholarship at Simmons University, which allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the USA. Students who meet the scholarship criteria are also encouraged to consider the Simmons Honors Program, which adds another layer of academic excellence to your college experience.
Also read: HEC Overseas Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)
Scholarship Overview
- Academic Level: Undergraduate
- Host Institution: Simmons University
- Study in: USA
- Duration: 4 years of full-time undergraduate study
- Target: First-year students (all nationalities eligible)
- Coverage: Full tuition, mandatory fees (except health insurance), room and board
- Type: Competitive merit-based scholarship
- Renewal: Automatically renewable for 4 years (subject to academic standards)
- Supersedes: Any previously awarded merit scholarship
- Connected Program: Students often also join the Simmons Honors Program
- Application Method: Essay submission via Common Application or email
Also read: Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026 for International Students
Offered Courses
The Kotzen Scholarship covers all undergraduate programs available at Simmons University. Here’s what makes this scholarship so flexible – you can pursue any of these majors and still qualify. Whether you’re drawn to business, healthcare, technology, or liberal arts, there’s something for everyone.
Business & Economics:
- Accounting (BSBA)
- Business Management (BSBA)
- Economics (BA)
- Economics and Mathematics (BS)
- Economics (BA)/Public Policy (MPP)
- Finance (BSBA)
- Marketing (BSBA)
- Retail Management (BSBA)
Science & Technology:
- Biology (BS)
- Biochemistry (BS)
- Biostatistics (BS)
- Chemistry (BS)
- Chemistry Management (BS)
- Computer Science (BS)
- Computer Science (BS)/Library and Information Science (MS)
- Data Science and Analytics (BS)
- Environmental Science (BS)
- Financial Mathematics (BS)
- Health Informatics (BS)
- Information Technology (BS)
- Mathematics (BS)
- Neuroscience and Behavior (BS)
- Physics (BS)
- Web Design & Development (BS)
Healthcare & Wellness:
- Exercise Science (BS)
- Exercise Science (BS)/Nutrition and Health Promotion (MS)
- Exercise Science (BS)/Physical Therapy (DPT)
- Nursing (BS)
- Nursing (BS)/Nursing (MS)
- Nursing (BSN) for RN Holders
- Nutrition (BS)/Nutrition and Health Promotion (MS)
- Nutrition and Food (BS)
- Nutrition and Dietetics (BS)
- Public Health (BS or BA)
- Public Health (BS)/Nutrition and Health Promotion (MS)
Liberal Arts & Humanities:
- African Studies (BA)
- Art (BA)
- Communications (BA)
- East Asian Studies (BA)
- Elementary Education (BA/BS and MAT/MS)
- English (BA)
- French (BA)
- History (BA)
- International Relations (BA)
- Music (BA)
- Philosophy (BA)
- Political Science (BA)
- Political Science (BA)/Public Policy (MPP)
- Psychology (BA)
- Public Relations and Marketing Communications (BA)
- Social Work (BSW)
- Social Work (BSW)/Social Work (MSW)
- Sociology (BA)
- Sociology (BA)/Public Policy (MPP)
- Spanish (BA)
- Special Education (BA/BS and MSEd)
- Women’s and Gender Studies (BA)
Available Minors & Concentrations:
- Arts Administration, Business, Cinema and Media Studies, Entrepreneurship, Graphic Design, Journalism, Media Arts, Photography, and many others
The beauty of the Kotzen Scholarship is that it doesn’t limit your academic dreams. Pick any of these programs and you’re covered for four full years.
Also read: Chinese Government Scholarship 2026 for International students
Simmons University Kotzen Scholarships Coverage
Let me break down what this scholarship actually covers – because honestly, the numbers are impressive. This scholarship covers full tuition fees, mandatory fees (except health insurance), and complete room and board expenses, which means you won’t have to worry about the basic expenses of college life.
The scholarship supersedes any previously awarded merit scholarship, so if you’ve already received other Simmons merit awards, this one takes priority and provides the maximum benefit possible.
- Full tuition coverage (worth approximately $40,000+ per year)
- All mandatory university fees (health insurance excluded)
- Complete room and board expenses
- Supersedes any other merit scholarships previously awarded
- Four-year guaranteed coverage with automatic renewal
- Access to the exclusive Distinguished Scholar community
- Priority consideration for research opportunities
- Connection to Simmons Honors Program opportunities
Also read: Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship for International Students
Eligibility Criteria for Simmons University Kotzen Scholarships
Here’s where things get specific, and I’ll be honest – the requirements are pretty demanding. But that’s what makes this scholarship so valuable. The Distinguished Scholar Award is available for first-year students applying to Simmons University, so if you’re already in college or planning to transfer, this particular opportunity won’t work for you.
The academic standards are high, too. Students must have a minimum 3.50 GPA to be eligible for the scholarship, which translates to consistently strong academic performance throughout high school.
- Must apply as a first-year student for the fall semester only
- Minimum 3.50 GPA (official requirement from Simmons)
- Standardized test scores: 28+ ACT or 1300+ SAT (optional but recommended)
- College preparatory coursework: AP, honors, or IB courses required
- English proficiency: Required for non-native English speakers
- Community involvement: History of active engagement through volunteer work or leadership
- Passion for the field: Demonstrated through academic achievements and activities
- Strong commitment to community service and social impact
- Evidence of leadership potential and character
Also read: Monash University Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded
Required Documents for Simmons University Kotzen Scholarships
The application process is actually more streamlined than many other prestigious scholarships. You won’t need multiple recommendation letters or extensive portfolios – the focus is on your academic record and your leadership essay.
The main requirement is a formal essay responding to a specific prompt, along with your regular admission application materials to Simmons University.
- Complete the Simmons University undergraduate application.
- Official high school transcripts with a strong GPA
- Formal leadership essay: 300-500 words responding to a specific prompt
- Document format: Submit via Common Application or PDF/Word via email
- Page requirements: Include full name and date of birth on each page
- Subject line: “Simmons Distinguished Scholar Award application” (if emailing)
- Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT – optional but recommended)
- English proficiency scores (for non-native speakers only)
- Evidence of college preparatory coursework completion
Also read: Required Scholarship Documents: 47 Must-Have Documents
How to Apply for Simmons University Kotzen Scholarships?
The application process is straightforward once you understand the requirements. You can submit your essay through the Common Application or email it directly to the admissions office with the proper subject line.
Here’s the specific essay prompt you’ll need to address: “Write an essay in which you describe your leadership style, giving specific examples to show what kinds of experiences have crafted you as a leader, and what kind of leader you think you will become at Simmons.”
- Submit your regular Simmons University undergraduate application first
- Essay submission options: Via Common Application or email
- Email submission: Send to admissions with subject “Simmons Distinguished Scholar Award application”
- Essay requirements: 300-500 words addressing the leadership prompt
- Document format: PDF or Word format only
- Page identification: Include full name and date of birth on each page
- Essay focus: Describe leadership style with specific examples
- Future vision: Explain what kind of leader you’ll become at Simmons
- Deadline coordination: Submit both applications by December 1st
Also read: Yale University Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded) for International Students.
Application Deadline
December 1st – This is your target date for both your admission application and Distinguished Scholar Award essay. Mark your calendar now – seriously. Missing this deadline means waiting another full year to apply.
Selection Timeline:
- December 1: Application deadline
- End of January: Finalists notified
- February: Required interviews for finalists
- March 1: Recipients announced
I’d recommend submitting everything at least a week early. Technology failures happen, email servers go down, and you don’t want to risk missing out on this opportunity because of a last-minute technical glitch.
Also read: Turkey Government Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded
Official Website
For the most current information and official application materials, you’ll want to visit Simmons University’s official website. The university maintains detailed information about all its scholarship programs, including specific requirements that might change from year to year.
You can find comprehensive details about the Kotzen Scholarships and other financial aid opportunities at Simmons University Financial Aid.
For international students specifically, check out their dedicated page at International Student Financial Aid.
Apply Now – Start your application process here and transform your educational future.
Also read: Stanford University Scholarships 2026 Fully Funded
Also, check other scholarships in the USA: Scholarships in the USA
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kotzen Scholarship only for international students?
Yes, the Kotzen Scholarship is specifically designed for international students only. You cannot apply if you are a US citizen or permanent resident. The scholarship targets students from around the world who want to pursue their undergraduate degree at Simmons University.
What does the Kotzen Scholarship actually cover?
The scholarship covers full tuition, mandatory fees, room, and board for four years. You also get an additional $3,000 every year for study abroad, research, or summer programs. This means almost all your college costs are paid.
What GPA do I need to qualify for the Kotzen Scholarship?
You need a minimum GPA of 3.3 or higher (unweighted). This is different from some sources that mention 3.50 – the official requirement is 3.3 unweighted GPA. Your grades should be consistently strong throughout high school with challenging coursework.
When is the application deadline for the Kotzen Scholarship?
The application deadline is December 1st. You must submit both your admission application and scholarship materials by this date. Finalists are notified and invited for February interviews, with final decisions announced later.
Do I need to take the SAT or ACT for this scholarship?
Yes, standardized test scores are mandatory. You need ACT 28 or higher, new SAT 1300 or higher, or old SAT 1250 or higher. For the SAT, a minimum of 600 in each section is strongly recommended.
Can I apply for any major with the Distinguished Scholar Award?
Yes, you can apply for any undergraduate program at Simmons University. The scholarship covers all academic disciplines and is not limited to specific majors. Whether you want to study business, science, liberal arts, nursing, or any other field, you’re eligible to apply.
How do I submit my Distinguished Scholar Award application?
You can submit your leadership essay either through the Common Application or by email. If emailing, send it with the subject line “Simmons Distinguished Scholar Award application” and include your full name and date of birth on each page of the document.
Will I need an interview for the Distinguished Scholar Award?
Yes, finalists are required to attend an interview in February. This interview is a crucial part of the final selection process. The interview format and location details are provided to finalists when they’re notified at the end of January.
What should I write in my Distinguished Scholar Award essay?
Write a 300-500-word essay describing your leadership style with specific examples. Show what experiences shaped you as a leader and explain what kind of leader you’ll become at Simmons. Focus on concrete examples rather than general statements about leadership.
Can I apply if English is not my first language?
Yes, but you must demonstrate English proficiency if you’re a non-native speaker. This is required to ensure you can handle college-level coursework in English. The specific proficiency requirements will be outlined in your admission materials.
How many Kotzen Scholarships are awarded each year?
The official Simmons University website states there are “extremely limited opportunities to receive a full scholarship at Simmons”. This suggests that only a very small number of Kotzen Scholarships are awarded annually, making it highly competitive.
