Taman Siswa

Idaho high school students have a new incentive to pick a college close to home. The University of Idaho announced Monday that it will offer a minimum of $6,000 over four years to any Idaho student who meets minimum academic standards.

High school students must have a minimum 3.5 cumulative grade point average, or a minimum 25 ACT/1140 SAT score for home-schooled students. Once enrolled at the university, students must maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average. Students who meet these standards will be guaranteed a minimum of $1,500 for each of four years of study at the University of Idaho.

In addition, the university will offer up to $45,000 for the state’s National Merit Scholars. The new scholarship program is available beginning with freshmen entering the university in fall 2007.

“The University of Idaho is committed to academic excellence, accessibility and affordability for Idaho students,” President Timothy White said in a statement. “We pledge to high school students in the state that the University of Idaho can redefine their career opportunities and transform their lives through an unparalleled scholarship, research, learning and living experience. This program is an example of our university’s commitment to the state’s future.”