Which emperor granted scholarships to poor but deserving students?

• A. Trajan
• B. Hadrian
• C. Antoninus Pius
• D. Constantine

Answer: (A)

This item tests knowledge of a Roman emperor who used state resources to support education for needy youth. Trajan established the alimenta, a program that funded the feeding and schooling of poor children in Italy, effectively providing scholarships to those who were deserving. This system made education accessible to humble students by supplying financial support and resources, a hallmark of a formal, state-backed scholarship program. The other emperors are not associated with initiating this specific education-endowment; Hadrian continued existing supports, but did not originate a program like the alimenta, while Antoninus Pius and Constantine are known more for other reforms and projects. Therefore, Trajan is the emperor who granted scholarships to poor but deserving students.