MOON TOWNSHIP — Robert Morris University has established a new scholarship program in an attempt to set itself apart from local rival Duquesne University.

Up to $40,000, that’s how much a student who has been accepted into both Robert Morris and Duquesne could save if they opt to enroll at RMU.

The university announced the new RMU Advantage Scholarship program on Thursday. The scholarship states that any accepted student who chooses the Colonials over the Dukes will receive a $1,000 textbook credit, along with other financial aid that they may qualify for.

In a press release, RMU stated that students not attending Duquesne University are already saving $38,960 due to a difference between the total cost of attendance, including the price of room and board.

RMU will begin rounding that number up to $40,000 for the students that qualify, at the start of the Fall 2021 semester.

“We believe that students should be able to choose the university that is the best fit for them without cost getting in the way,” said Kellie Laurenzi, acting vice president for enrollment management at RMU. “We’ve always been more affordable than many other private universities, but it’s not always clear how big that difference is.”

The RMU Advantage Scholarship is held with the other initiatives designed to provide the campus with a competitive edge over other surrounding universities. These other initiatives include the Public Price Match Plus scholarship program and the College Affordability Academy, which is said to help families make better choices regarding college finances.