Montclair Awards and Scholarships

The Student Government Association of Montclair State University, Inc. (SGA) recognizes student achievement through a range of scholarships and leadership awards. These opportunities celebrate academic success, leadership, service and contributions to the Montclair community.

Montclair SGA Scholarships

Each year, the Montclair SGA awards over $30,000+ in scholarships to undergraduate students based on merit, academics, leadership, community service and financial need.

Scholarships are awarded directly to students’ University accounts and are designed to support a wide range of student experiences and backgrounds. 

Please Note: As of this time, these scholarships are not eligible to Bloomfield students. 

Scholarship Opportunities

SGA offers scholarships recognizing:

  • Academic excellence and leadership
  • Campus involvement and service
  • Cultural advocacy and inclusion
  • Transfer and commuter student experiences
  • First-year achievement
  • Non-traditional and veteran students
  • Undocumented and DACA students

Many scholarships require a short essay and may include GPA, credit or involvement criteria.

Application Process

  • Applications are submitted annually
  • Students are encouraged to apply for all scholarships they qualify for
  • Deadlines are typically in early spring semester

For application materials and details, visit the SGA office on Montclair campus, Student Center Annex, Room 103.

student receiving award

Available Scholarships

The Student Government Association offers scholarships that celebrate leadership, service, academic achievement and student involvement. Browse available awards and eligibility requirements below.

Please Note: As of this time, these scholarships are not eligible to Bloomfield students. 

Award: $1,000

Recognizes a student who has promoted cultural diversity and unity on campus.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 2.75 GPA
  • At least 30 completed credits
  • 500-word essay on contributions to cultural awareness and inclusion

Award: $500

For transfer students who have demonstrated academic success and campus involvement.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • At least 30 completed credits (12 at Montclair)
  • 500-word essay on transfer experience, academics and leadership

Award: $500

Recognizes commuter students who are actively engaged on campus.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 2.75 GPA
  • At least 12 completed credits at Montclair
  • 500-word essay on commuter experience and involvement

Award: $1,000

Supports students ineligible for federal financial aid and are committed to achieving their academic and professional goals.

Requirements:

  • Must not qualify for federal aid
  • 500-word essay on personal experience and career goals
     

Award: $1,000

Honors first-year students demonstrating strong leadership and academic achievement.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 3.5 GPA
  • Fewer than 30 completed credits
  • 500-word essay on first-year experience

Award: $500

For non-traditional students and veterans who demonstrate dedication to their education.

Requirements:

  • No GPA requirement
  • At least 12 completed credits at Montclair
  • 500-word personal essay

Award: $1,000

Recognizes students with strong academic performance and campus involvement.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 3.5 GPA
  • At least 30 completed credits
  • 500-word essay on academic and campus commitment
  • Personal or professional reference
  • Engage Co-Curricular Transcript

Award: $1,000

For students actively involved in SGA or Registered Student Organizations.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • At least 30 completed credits
  • 500-word essay on leadership, involvement and academic success

Award: $1,000

Honors students who demonstrate leadership and service to the campus community.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 2.75 GPA
  • At least 30 completed credits
  • 500-word essay on leadership and service

Award: $1,000

Recognizes students who demonstrate school spirit, service and philanthropy.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 2.75 GPA
  • At least 30 completed credits
  • 500-word essay on school pride and community involvement
  • Proof of community service

Leadership Awards

SGA Leadership Awards

At the end of each academic year, SGA recognizes outstanding student leaders at the annual Inaugural Ball.

These awards highlight the impact of students across student government and the broader campus community.

  • Legislator of the Year: Recognizes excellence in advocacy and representation within the Legislative Branch.
  • Cabinet Member of the Year: Honors leadership and impact within the Executive Branch.
  • Unsung Hero Award: Celebrates behind-the-scenes contributions and dedication.

Registered Student Organization Awards

SGA also celebrates the work of student organizations and their leaders through awards such as:

  • RSO President of the Year
  • Advisor of the Year
  • Organization of the Year
  • Academic, Cultural, Social and Special Interest Organization Awards
  • Outstanding Devotion to Community Service and Outreach

These awards recognize leadership, creativity, collaboration and the impact RSOs have on campus life.