The Watkins College of Art Scholarship Endowment will be used exclusively to provide need and merit-based scholarships for incoming freshman, transfer or graduate students studying the visual arts within the College of Art. Now fully matured, the endowment generates nearly $900,000 annually.
Incoming Undergraduate Students
Incoming undergraduate students pursuing a major within the Watkins College of Art are eligible for both need-based and merit scholarships. Scholarships typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 per year, are renewable for four years, and require that students maintain good academic standing and remain enrolled in a Watkins College of Art program.Merit-Based Scholarships
Students must have their Belmont application and portfolio submitted by December 1st to be eligible for the general college merit scholarships. Please visit the Portfolio Guidelines page for specific details.
Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based scholarships are determined by Belmont’s Office of Student Financial Services in partnership with the Office of Admissions. These awards are based on demonstrated financial need as submitted through the FAFSA.
Graduate Scholarships
Scholarships for the Master of Fine Arts in Visual Arts are funded through the Watkins Endowment. Scholarships are awarded through a faculty jury of student applications and portfolios. In order to be given priority consideration for scholarships, apply by Friday, March 20th, 2026.
Portfolio Submission Process for Graduate Students
For information about applying and submitting your portfolio to the MFA program, please see the MFA program page.