For the last six years, over 200 high school seniors have competed for a full-tuition scholarship to Warner University for four years. On Saturday, March 7th 2026, more will compete for Warner’s most prestigious scholarship. The Royal Cup targets high-achieving academic high school seniors who believe their uniqueness and skills set them apart from their peers.
In order to qualify for participation, students must have earned one of the following: 3.5 weighted or un-weighted GPA, 1130 SAT, 23 ACT, or top 15% of their class. Meeting one of these credentials is mandatory to upholding the purpose of the event: attracting hardworking, bright students. To register, in addition to meeting the academic requirements, participants must submit a resume, two letters of recommendation (not from a family member), and a personal essay describing what makes them unique and what Warner University should expect out of the student in the form of a written document (1-2 pages), PowerPoint presentation (10 slides), or a short video (2-3 minutes). Only one form of personal essay is required.
All scary and serious language aside, the Royal Cup is a blast for students and faculty who participate. While the day is designed to attract scholars, it is also designed to build connections. Did you know there are four full-time Warner University staff members who were Royal Cup participants? And there are three former Royal Cup winners who are currently students on campus!
Royal Cup winners have done everything on campus from playing on the football team’s offensive line, playing outside-hitter for women’s volleyball, serving as the Chair of Warner’s Agriculture Impact Club, shooting on the Clay Targets team, or cheering with the Warner cheer team. Where do you think many of those former winners made their first impression on campus? And did we forget to mention that all attendees of the Royal Cup receive a $14,000 scholarship for four years? And attendees who place in our “top 10” receive a $15,000 scholarship for four years! It pays to keep reading an article, doesn’t it?
The point is, you never know who you will meet at an event like the Royal Cup, and you never know what the judges are looking for. Winners have clearly not been “one size fits all.” Students stand out differently every year and that’s what makes this competition beautiful!
