Creative Arts Scholarship Form

Creative Arts Scholarship Application

Please note that Creative Arts Scholarships are for first time, out-of-state students only. Applicants may be required to fill additional forms in order to complete the application process for their chosen area of study. Contact your specified department for more info on next steps to apply.
For the Spring, 2026 semester, the application process opens October 15th. Priority consideration of applications closes on December 1st, December 2025. Applications received after December 1st will be reviewed by departments and programs if possible until January 10th, 2026 but there is a possibility that they will not be reviewed with sufficient time to process them prior to the start of the Spring, 2026 semester.

Requirements and Qualifications:

1. Must be a first-time ETSU out-of-state or international student (either Fall or Spring term)---this includes first-time freshmen, transfers, and graduate students.

2. Undergraduate students are required to enroll in a minimum of 15 hours each semester. Graduate students are required to enroll in a minimum of 9 hours per semester.

3. First-time freshmen recipients of the CAS will be required to live on campus and purchase a meal plan. NOTE: Recipients may live in an on campus arts living and learning community, but are not required to do so.

4. Recipients will participate in creative arts activities or performances that have a University or community audience, as directed by their Creative Arts Scholarship Coordinator.
Name*

First NameLast Name
Email*
example@example.com
Address*

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState

Zip CodeCountry
Intended Academic Major:*
Your major can be different from your area of interest for the Creative Arts Scholarship.
Intended Academic Minor, if applicable:
Date of ETSU Admissions Application:
Are you an international student?
ETSU Admission Status:*

AcceptedPendingNot Accepted
Expected Entry Date*
Semester and Year (ex. Fall 2023)
E Number:*
If you have applied to ETSU, you will have an E# for your account.
Status:*

Entering FreshmanTransfer StudentEntering Graduate Student

Entering Freshman
High School Name:*
Please no abbreviations.
High School City and State:*
High School GPA:*
ACT/ SAT Score:*

Transfer/Graduate Students
Previous College Name:*
Total Credit Hours Earned:*
Total Hours in Major at previous school:*
Current Cumulative College GPA:*

Bluegrass, Old-Time, Country, & Roots Music
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
I will declare Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies as a major or minor course of study.*

I understand and agree
I will maintain an overall 2.0 GPA as well as a 3.0 GPA in all BLUE courses for each semester.*

I understand and agree
I will participate in public performances, as agreed upon with the faculty of Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Country Music Studies.*

I understand and agree
I will assist with additional public performance-related activities as needed.*

I understand and agree
If an undergraduate student, I will reside in ETSU Housing and purchase a meal plan for my freshman year.*

I understand and agree
Performance Experience: Videos

Links to YouTube videos documenting your performance skills in three different songs or tunes. If you do not wish to use YouTube, you can send video files using the ETSU Dropbox: https://dropbox.etsu.edu/ See instructions here: https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/3309389
Video 1:
Provide a brief description of why you chose the performance piece in Video 1 and what the video demonstrates.
Video 2:
Provide a brief description of why you chose the performance piece in Video 2 and what the video demonstrates.
Video 3:
Provide a brief description of why you chose the performance piece in Video 3 and what the video demonstrates.
In 200-300 words, summarize your experience with Bluegrass, Old-time, Celtic, and/or Country music to date AND explain what you hope to achieve musically in the future.*
Do you have any questions?

Cheerleading and Dance Teams
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
Which team interests you?*

CheerleadingDance
The following are the terms of eligibility for the Cheerleading and Dance Team Creative Arts Scholarship. By clicking yes, you are indicating that you understand you must uphold these policies to accept and retain your scholarship.
Prospective members of the Cheerleading and Dance Teams must attend tryouts every year, usually scheduled in April for the follow academic year.*

I understand and agree
Pass a minimum of 12 credits each semester.*

I understand and agree
Maintain an overall GPA of 2.5 each term. GPA will be reviewed at the end of each term (fall, spring, and summer).*

I understand and agree
Live on campus the first year unless a transfer student.*

I understand and agree
Do you have any questions?

Creative Writing

All application materials must be returned by July 1 for Fall admittance and December 1 for Spring admittance.
Which classification applies to you?*

UndergraduateGraduate

Creative Writing: Undergraduate
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
Please upload a sample of your creative writing. This can be 8 pages of prose (fiction or creative nonfiction) or 5 poems.*

Browse Files

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Please upload a statement of purpose that explains your educational and career goals and how creative writing can help you reach those goals (1000 words max).*

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The following are the terms of eligibility for the Creative Writing Creative Arts Scholarship. By clicking yes, you are indicating that you understand you must uphold these policies to accept and retain your scholarship.
I understand that incoming creative writers receiving this scholarship are expected to (1) minor in creative writing, and (2) be involved in Literati, Mockingbird, or an equivalent creative writing event (to be approved by CW faculty) each semester to maintain eligibility.*

I understand and agree
I understand that I must complete 12 credit hours each term and must earn a term and cumulative GPA of 2.5 for renew of my scholarship. I also understand that I am advised to take 15 credit hours per semester to graduate within eight semester.*

I understand and agree
I understand that I must reside in ETSU Housing and purchase a meal plan for my freshmen year at ETSU.*

I understand and agree
If you are selected for a Creative Arts Scholarship, you will be notified at the email address provided above. At that point you will be asked to return a completed and signed acceptance form.

If your plans change, please notify us immediately so that the scholarship award may be presented to another qualified student.
Do you have any questions?

Creative Writing: Graduate
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
Please upload a sample of your creative writing. This can be 12 pages of prose (fiction or creative nonfiction) or 6 poems.*

Browse Files

Cancelof
Please upload a statement of purpose that explains your educational and career goals and how creative writing can help you reach those goals (1000 words max).*

Browse Files

Cancelof
The following are the terms of eligibility for the Creative Writing Creative Arts Scholarship. By clicking yes, you are indicating that you understand you must uphold these policies to accept and retain your scholarship.
Incoming creative writers receiving this scholarship are expected to (1) minor in creative writing, and (2) be involved in Literati, Mockingbird, or an equivalent creative writing event (to be approved by CW faculty) each semester to maintain eligibility.*

I understand and agree
I must complete 9 credit hours each term and must earn a term and cumulative GPA of 2.5 for renew of my scholarship.*

I understand and agree
Do you have any questions?

Digital Media
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
I will declare Digital media as my major course of study.*

I understand and agree
I will maintain a cumulative 2.5 GPA and enroll in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester while being strongly advised to register for 15 credit hours every semester in order to graduate within eight semesters.*

I understand and agree
I agree to provide 70 hours of service to Digital Media Department per semester in my first and sophomore undergraduate years.*

I understand and agree
I agree to tutor Digital Media Majors and Minors in my junior and senior years.*

I understand and agree
If an undergraduate student, I will reside in ETSU Housing and purchase a meal plan for my freshman year.*

I understand and agree
What are your digital media career goals? (Less than 300 words)*
Do you want to receive occasional email announcements from our department?*

YesNo
Do you have any questions?

East Tennessean & Student Media Center
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
Please write and upload a 250 word essay on the following question: What influenced your decision to select East Tennessee State University as your college of choice? *

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I will maintain an overall 2.5 GPA and successfully complete a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester.*

I understand and agree
I agree to work up to 70 hours each Fall and Spring semester for the East Tennessean/Student Media Center.*

I understand and agree
If an undergraduate, I will reside in ETSU Housing and purchase a meal plan for my freshman year.*

I understand and agree
Do you have any questions?
The Creative Arts Scholarship Program is for first-time, out-of-state graduate and undergraduate students, including international and transfer students. Applicants must be accepted to ETSU before they will be considered for a Creative Arts Scholarship.

The following are the terms of eligibility for the Creative Arts Scholarship with the East Tennessean and Student Media Center. By agreeing to these terms, you are indicating that you understand you must uphold these policies to accept and retain your scholarship.
I must complete 12 credit hours each semester and must earn a cumulative GPA of 2.5 to retain my scholarship.*

I understand and agree
At the direction of the Adviser and Office Supervisor of the East Tennessean, I must complete 70 hours of work for the East Tennessean and/or the Student Media Center. The 70 hours may be met by any combination of the following duties under the guidance of the East Tennessean adviser, the East Tennessean office supervisor and the East Tennessean student executive editor, including: writing for print and/oronline; photography; videography; graphic design; advertising sales; circulation; multimedia production; editing both for print and online; and social media production. Various duties are also available through the Student Media Center from assisting with projects to working at the front desk.*

I understand and agree

Film and Media Studies
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
Please upload a Statement of Interest answering the following questions: Why the Film and Media Studies Minor? What do you hope to learn? What do you hope to do in your future career or creative practice?*

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Please submit an example of your work, which may be one of the following:
- An analytical essay on film
- A creative project, including a film or script
- An essay that explains the importance of one aspect of the cinematography, editing, mise-en-scène, or sound in a film
If you choose to submit an essay as an example of your work, upload it here:

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If you choose to submit a film as an example of your work, please provide a link to it here:
The following are the terms of eligibility for the Film Studies Creative Arts Scholarship. By clicking yes, you are indicating that you understand you must uphold these policies to accept and retain your scholarship.
I understand that incoming students receiving this scholarship are expected to (1) minor in Film and Media Studies, and (2) be involved in organizing and attending Film Studies related activities and events (to be approved by Film and Media Studies coordinators) each semester to maintain eligibility. I will be responsible for setting a meeting with the Film and Media Studies coordinators within the first two weeks of each semester to arrange my service commitment.*

I understand and agree
I understand that I must complete 15 credit hours each term, as well as maintain a 2.5 general GPA and a 3.0 GPA in Film and Media Studies classes for renewal of my scholarship.*

I understand and agree
I understand that I must reside in ETSU Housing and purchase a meal plan for my freshmen year at ETSU.*

I understand and agree
Do you have any questions?

Gospel Choir
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
Briefly describe your skills, experiences, and talents that qualify you for the Gospel Choir Creative Arts Scholarship.*
I will enroll in and successfully complete a minimum of 15 credit hours per semester for undergraduate students and 9 credit hours per semester for graduate students.*

I understand and agree
I will maintain an overall 2.5 GPA.*

I understand and agree
I will participate in weekly choir practice.*

I understand and agree
I will participate in local and regional performances and attend an annual weekend event during the Spring semester.*

I understand and agree
If an undergraduate, I will reside in ETSU Housing and purchase a meal plan for my freshman year.*

I understand and agree
Do you have any questions?

Interior Architecture
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
The following are the terms of eligibility for the Interior Architecture Creative Arts Scholarship. By clicking yes, you are indicating that you understand you must uphold these policies to accept and retain your scholarship.
Register as an Interior Architecture major.*

I understand and agree
Pass all of INTD cohort courses*

I understand and agree
Earn a minimum grade of “C-” in required interior architecture studio courses.*

I understand and agree
Register for all next terms cohort courses*

I understand and agree
As juniors / seniors, participate in tutoring program for interior architecture freshmen and sophomores*

I understand and agree
Pass a minimum of 12 credits each semester*

I understand and agree
Maintain an overall GPA of 2.5 each term. GPA will be reviewed at the end of each term (fall, spring, and summer)*

I understand and agree
Live on campus the first year unless a transfer student*

I understand and agree
Do you have any questions?

International Culture and Media
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
Why are you interested in the International Culture and Media Scholarship, and how do you hope to use your skills to promote international culture at ETSU?
Share an example of a creative project you've worked on (digital, written, visual, or event-based). What di you learn from this process?
If you could design one project to highlight your culture or international student life at ETSU, what would it be and why?
The following are the terms of eligibility for the International Culture and Media Creative Arts Scholarship. By clicking yes, you are indicating that you understand you must uphold these policies to accept and retain your scholarship.
Work as mentored and directed by the International Enrollment and Services Staff.

I understand and agree
Pass a minimum of 12 credits each semester for undergraduates and 9 credits each semester for graduate students.

I understand and agree
Maintain an overall GPA of 2.5 each term. GPA will be reviewed at the end of each term (fall, spring, and summer).

I understand and agree
Live on campus the first year and purchase a meal plan unless a transfer student.

I understand and agree
Do you have any questions?

Marching Band
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
What instrument do you play?*
How many years have you been involved in marching band?*
Describe your marching band experience, including the style of performance?*
I will enroll in MUSC 1201 Marching Band every Fall semester to receive the scholarship.*

I understand and agree
I will maintain an overall 2.5 GPA.*

I understand and agree
If an undergraduate, I will reside in ETSU Housing and purchase a meal plan for my freshman year.*

I understand and agree
Do you have any questions?

Music

For audition requirements and dates, visit our website: www.etsu.edu/music. Note: If you are interested in Bluegrass, Old-Time, Country, or Celtic studies, please apply for those areas of study on their specific application page.
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
Are you a vocalist or instrumentalist?*

VocalistInstrumentalistNeither
Please list your instrument or vocal part.*
The following are the terms of eligibility for the Music Creative Arts Scholarship. By clicking yes, you are indicating that you understand you must uphold these policies to accept and retain your scholarship.
You must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5. Grades are reviewed each semester.*

I understand and agree
You must pass a minimum of 12 credits each semester.*

I understand and agree
You must perform satisfactorily as a member of an ensemble.*

I understand and agree
You must take private lessons.*

I understand and agree
Recipients must live on campus the first year unless a transfer student.*

I understand and agree
Do you have any questions?

Speech and Debate
As part of the application process, I will schedule a 10-15 minute interview (via Zoom) with a Speech and Debate Team representative.*

I understand and agree
As part of the application process, I will submit a 200-250 work essay that summarizes the student's experience with speech or debate, an explanation of their desired level of involvement with the team, and a description of any competitive goals they may hope to achieve during their college career.*

I understand and agree
I will be contacted by a coach from the Speech and Debate Team to provide a video demonstrating my speaking ability.*

I understand and agree
I will major in Communication Studies or Minor in Communication Studies or Storytelling.*

I understand and agree
I will enroll in COMM 2325 Speech and Debate Team (not applicable to Graduate students).*

I understand and agree
I will attend weekly meetings of the Speech and Debate Team.*

I understand and agree
I will become a speech and/or debate competitor for ETSU, compete in two tournaments each semester, and participate in other team activities (e.g., recruitment, team-building, practices).*

I understand and agree
I will maintain an overall 2.0 GPA and successfully complete a minimum of 12 credit hours per semesters as an undergraduate, or 9 credit hours per semester as a graduate student.*

I understand and agree
If an undergraduate, I will reside in ETSU Housing and purchase a meal plan for my freshman year.*

I understand and agree

Storytelling
Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of 8 semesters. Creative Arts scholarships are not valid during summer semesters. All scholarships are reviewed at the end of every semester and the decision to grant students retention of their scholarship is based upon satisfactory performance in the eligibility requirements listed below, completion of individual projects and responsibilities assigned by the scholarship director or coordinator, and the recommendation of faculty.
The following are the terms of eligibility for the Storytelling Creative Arts Scholarship. By clicking yes, you are indicating that you understand you must uphold these policies to accept and retain your scholarship.
Be an undergraduate storytelling minor or be a graduate student in Communication and Storytelling Studies.*

I understand and agree.
Maintain a 3.0 GPA in the minor/M.A.*

I understand and agree.
Register for and pass 12 credit hours as an undergraduate or 9 credit hours as a graduate student.

I understand and agree.
Be an active member of TaleTellers student organization. This includes telling stories each semester in various community venues and attending meetings regularly.*

I understand and agree.
Tell at or help produce the Regeneration Story Slam (or its equivalent) each semester.*

I understand and agree.
After submitting this form, please fill out an audition sheet.

Click here for Audition Sheet
Do you have any questions?

Should be Empty:

Creative Arts Scholarship Application

Entering Freshman

Transfer/Graduate Students

Art & Design

Bluegrass, Old-Time, Country, & Roots Music

Performance Experience: Videos

Cheerleading and Dance Teams

Creative Writing

Creative Writing: Undergraduate

Creative Writing: Graduate

Digital Media

East Tennessean & Student Media Center

Film and Media Studies

Gospel Choir

Interior Architecture

International Culture and Media

Marching Band

Music

Speech and Debate

Storytelling

Theatre and Dance