How to Apply

Undergraduate University Scholars for the class of 2011 have now been chosen. Scholars for the class of 2012 will be chosen in April 2008.

It is not possible or necessary to apply directly to the University Scholars Program. There are no supplemental forms or materials to submit. All that is needed is to apply for admission to Duke University in the normal manner. It is a policy of long standing that the Admissions Office considers all applicants for admission for every appropriate scholarship. Please note that the scholarship is intended for incoming freshmen only. Transfer students or students already enrolled at Duke are not eligible.

As University Scholars are selected in part on the basis of financial need, it is imperative to file any required financial aid forms as early as possible, preferably by mid-February. The financial aid forms include the PROFILE, FAFSA, W-2 and tax forms, and any other required forms. For more information, go to the Office of Financial Aid website. For details on required forms, see:

• Early Decision: http://www.finaid.duke.edu/needaid_application_early.html
• Regular Decision: http://www.finaid.duke.edu/needaid_application_regular.html

After evaluating all eligible candidates, the USP Faculty Advisory Committee then invites approximately twenty finalists to Duke’s campus for a weekend in early April. During this selection weekend, finalists have the opportunity to meet current scholars, the other finalists, and the staff and faculty of Duke University, and experience a USP seminar. Each finalist is interviewed by a committee consisting of faculty advisors, graduate and professional school University Scholars and advanced undergraduate University Scholars. On the basis of the general applications and the interviews, up to eight scholarships are awarded each year.

The distinctive features of the University Scholars Program for undergraduate scholars include:

Full Tuition Scholarship
Each undergraduate is awarded a University Scholarship providing full-tuition for four years.

Assistance for Students Demonstrating Additional Financial Need
Duke University will meet 100% of the demonstrated need of all admitted University Scholars who are U.S. citizens or non-citizens eligible for student aid. University Scholars can expect that any demonstrated financial need beyond full tuition will be covered by grants, not loans

Summer Enrichment Program
After the third year, undergraduate University Scholars may receive support for an intensive internship, research experience, or a summer abroad. Students prepare a budget and a proposal for their program of summer enrichment. In the past, students have interned in nuclear physics in Germany; conducted independent research in Costa Rica on tropical plants for medicinal purposes; held a research internship in Australia on elasmobranches (rays, sharks, skates); arranged independent studies in neurobiology and Japanese economics; learned about documentary filmmaking in New York City; and studied abroad through programs in China, Japan, Switzerland and England. Click here for guidelines on preparing budgets and proposals.

Study Abroad
Scholars may study abroad through an approved program for one or two semesters. The University Scholars Program will cover tuition charges up to but not in excess of Duke’s tuition charges. Students who have demonstrated additional need may expect similar support for remaining expenses.

Interdisciplinarity–Both Curricular and Extracurricular
Students can decide how they wish to pursue interdisciplinary interests. Some may design their own curriculum through Duke’s Program II; others may pursue double majors or certificate programs.