Make your NSU degree more affordable. Louisiana-backed scholarships can lower your out-of-pocket costs so you can focus on learning, not loans. Explore the programs below and take action today.
Louisiana’s Taylor Opportunity Program (TOPS)
The TOPS program is a comprehensive, merit-based student aid program with multiple award components—each with its own eligibility criteria (Opportunity, Performance, and Honors Awards). TOPS encourages Louisiana residents to prepare for and pursue post-secondary education in the state, helping build a strong workforce for tomorrow. Students can check eligibility at the LOSFA website.
TOPS Summer Payment Criteria (meet at least one)
- Earned at least 60 hours of college credit prior to the summer session; OR
- Summer session is required enrollment in the degree program and you are enrolled in no less than the minimum hours required for that program; OR
- Degree requirements can be completed during the summer session; OR
- The course is required for graduation and is only offered during the summer; OR
- Summer session is conducted for the nonacademic program in which you’re enrolled.
TOPS Summer Payment Request Form
Louisiana National Guard Patriot Scholarship
Created in August 2023, this scholarship provides payment of mandatory fees (including Student Association fees) for eligible Louisiana National Guard members enrolled at a Louisiana public postsecondary institution and eligible for the LA National Guard tuition waiver. Awards are made as funds are appropriated and are determined based on hours enrolled (part-time summer or intersession enrollment counts toward the maximum number of semesters/quarters). Learn more at the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA) and the Louisiana National Guard. Eligibility Requirements
- Member in good standing with the LA National Guard
- Eligible to receive the LA National Guard tuition waiver
- Eligible for STEP
- Enrolled in at least one credit hour at a LA public postsecondary institution
- Enrolled as of the 14th class day
- Have not used the Patriot Scholarship for more than 12 semesters
- Pursuing an undergraduate degree
Award Amount
- Equal to the mandatory fees on your fee bill
- NSU determines award amounts based on hours enrolled
- Maximum of 12 semesters (summer/intersessions count toward this maximum)
Award Year
- Begins with the fall semester/term and ends immediately prior to the next fall semester/term
- Includes all semesters, quarters, terms, and intersessions
Billing Process
- NSU offers the NG Patriot Scholarship to all eligible students
- NSU bills for awards after the 14th class day
- Awards are accepted once NSU receives payment from LOSFA
Continuing Eligibility
- Remain in good standing with the LA National Guard
- Be eligible for the LA National Guard tuition waiver as of the billing date
- Not have received the scholarship for 12 semesters or 16 quarters
- Not be on academic probation
- Not have received the scholarship for four years unless granted an extension due to mobilization or call to active duty
- Not have achieved a baccalaureate degree while using program funds
Regaining Eligibility
- Eligibility can be lost if placed on academic probation or if flagged by your Unit Commander
- Academic eligibility may be reviewed once you are no longer on academic probation
Start Saving Program (START)
The Start Saving Program allows individuals, groups, or organizations to establish education savings accounts with routine deposits to cover a beneficiary’s future educational costs.
Rockefeller State Wildlife Scholarship
A competitive scholarship for high school graduates and college undergraduates/graduate students majoring in forestry, wildlife, or marine science. Recipients must earn a degree in one of these fields at a Louisiana public college or repay the funds (plus interest). Details available on the LOFSA Programs website.
Geaux Teach
The Geaux Teach scholarship supports students enrolled in teacher preparation programs or alternate certification programs approved by BESE at Louisiana postsecondary institutions. Eligibility Requirements
- Be a U.S. citizen and, if required, registered with the Selective Service
- Louisiana resident for at least two years prior to July 1 immediately preceding the academic year of enrollment
- Minimum 2.50 cumulative college GPA
- Enrolled full time in an approved teacher preparation program or alternate certification program
- Sophomore or higher classification
- Complete the FAFSA for the applicable award year
Continuing Eligibility
- Receive the award for no more than four academic years
- Maintain at least a 2.50 cumulative college GPA
- Remain enrolled full time in an approved program through the census date
What Costs Are Covered? Maximum annual award of $5,000 for tuition, required fees, and required textbooks/instructional materials.
Next Steps
Own your future with less financial stress. If you’re eligible for one or more of these state scholarships, you can reduce your cost of attendance and move faster toward a rewarding career. Gather your documents, confirm your eligibility at the links above, and get ready to take the next step with NSU.