FAQs

1. Who should apply?
2. I notice that a lot of past presidential scholars have been majoring in the sciences. I am a Philosophy major - will I have a chance?
3. What are the most important criteria for selection?
4. Can I use the scholarship to finish my thesis?
5. Can I still apply for a presidential scholarship if I have received a Carson grant or SCRP grant?
6. Does the Undergraduate Awards Committee always select two scholars?

1. Who should apply?

Presidential Scholars will be among the top young scholars in the CAS. While GPA is an important factor, and Presidential Scholars have generally had GPAs above 3.7, applications from students with exceptional promise but lower GPAs may be selected as scholarship recipients. However, it is unlikely that you would be selected if your GPA is not above 3.3.

2. I notice that a lot of past presidential scholars have been majoring in the sciences. I am a Philosophy major - will I have a chance?

The Grants & Awards Committee does not consider disciplinary distribution across the college. Scholars may be from any discipline or department.

3. What are the most important criteria for selection?

The principal criteria for evaluation are research design, originality, and contribution to the discipline.

4. Can I use the scholarship to finish my thesis?

Projects should extend beyond the average thesis in both scope and design. If the applicant has finished their thesis, the scholarship may be used to extend the thesis research or to pursue new work. Applicants should consult with their advisors and departments regarding their project's feasibility, thesis requirements and course credit.

5. Can I still apply for a presidential scholarship if I have received a Carson grant or SCRP grant?

Students who have received a Carson Undergraduate Research Grant or Summer Collaborative Research Program Science Grant MAY NOT be a Presidential Scholar in the same year. Students who received a Carson Undergraduate Research Grant or SCRP Science Grant in their sophomore year ARE ELIGIBLE for the Presidential Scholarship in their Junior Year.

6. Does the Undergraduate Awards Committee always select two scholars?

The Committee may decide not to appoint scholars if applicants do not meet the selection criteria.