Points System
The MERITS program is a two-semester, goal oriented incentive program open to all students at the University of Arizona. It is intended primarily for first-year students who have completed the New Start Summer Program. Program goals are accomplished with the guidance and support of a Peer Advisor. MERITS is based on the idea that students should be the most active and responsible participants in their own success.
- Students will be part of a community that provides an atmosphere that reduces anxiety, promotes positive attitudes, and stimulates learning.
- Students will increase their awareness of the purpose and benefits of higher education.
- Students will recognize their abilities to set and achieve personal and academic goals.
- Students will understand and use available campus resources to maximize achievement.
- Students will become familiar with the University policies, procedures, and physical surroundings.
MERITS goals are achieved by participating in activities that help you achieve personally, academically, and pre-professionally. The link below will take you to the point system that lists activities and the points that can be earned by participating in those activities. MERITS participants must agree to several required activities:
- Meet with a peer advisor every other week
- Attend a workshop every other week
- Maintain a grade sheet for the classes in which you are enrolled
- Submit a mid-semester academic progress report for each class
- Sign up for tutoring for all classes in which tutoring is provided
- Expect to succeed!
Participants with the highest point totals after two semesters are recognized with a book scholarship for the following semester. MERITS students have the potential to achieve short and medium range goals, become more well-rounded people, and achieve academic success. MERITS students become more knowledgeable about the University, both as an institution of higher education and as a community in which you are a welcomed and contributing member.
- Click here to see the MERITS Point System (html)
- Click here to download the MERITS Point System (pdf)
