University of Oregon

The University of Oregon is a public research university at Eugene, awarding 'more than USD 2.5 million in financial aid and scholarships to international students' each year. Two features distinguish it. First, it is genuinely test-blind for funding: 'ACT and SAT scores are optional when applying to the UO and will not be considered when awarding freshman scholarships', with merit awards made 'through a holistic review without SAT or ACT scores.' Second, its flagship international award has a service component rather than being purely academic. The International Cultural Service Program scholarship requires recipients 'to give presentations about their home country to children, community organizations, and UO students, faculty, and staff', and is assessed partly on 'the ability to make presentations to diverse groups of people'. Incoming freshmen who apply by 15 January are automatically considered for the General University Scholarship Program.