Promising Scholars

Promising Scholars Program An IUP Scholarship Initiative to Support High-Achieving Pennsylvania Students

WHAT IS THE PROMISING SCHOLARS PROGRAM?

The Promising Scholars Program rewards your hard work.

This competitive scholarship program for high-achieving Pennsylvania students blends financial support with academic and professional development, supporting the success of outstanding minority high school students and first-generation college students.

Scholarships can be as much as full tuition.

They are renewable for up to four years.

HOW TO BECOME A PROMISING SCHOLAR First, you’ll need to apply to IUP and be accepted by October 31. For best consideration for Promising Scholars, submit your application early.

Next, complete your Promising Scholars application online at IUP.edu/PromisingScholarsApply Applications will be considered based on • • • • •

Academic excellence Class rank Community involvement Extracurricular activities An essay or recommendation letter (optional)

Be one of the first qualified students to apply, and you’ll be invited to an interview event.

A limited number of students will be selected to participate on each virtual interview date.

If selected, you’ll be scheduled for a 10-minute interview and have the chance to learn more about IUP and the Promising Scholars Program from our staff, alumni, and current students. Mark your calendar for the date of your interview region: • Promising Scholars East — November 18 • Promising Scholars West — December 5 The interview—together with the strength of your high school academics, demonstrated leadership, and participation in extracurricular activities—will determine the scholarship amount we offer.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PROGRAM Immerse Yourself: Join Our Living-Learning Community Live on campus in a tight-knit community of Promising Scholars. This built-in component of our program is a big advantage as you start college.

Connecting with a community of students from Day 1 helps you find others who share your interests or goals. You’ll form bonds with your professors outside of the classroom and enjoy fun social events and academic activities with the community.

Our suite-style residence halls, in the heart of campus, are close to everything.

Want a roommate who isn’t a Promising Scholar? No problem. You can still select a roommate outside the program.

Note: The Living-Learning Community is not a required component of the program.

Extra Features Unlock Your Full Potential Throughout your years in the Promising Scholars Program, you’ll take part in experiences that encourage you to reach your full potential in both academics and leadership.

You’ll have support and guidance from IUP’s faculty and administrators. As a Promising Scholar, you’ll participate in the following extra activities, as long as you fulfill your academic requirements: Freshman Year • Study Hall • Academic Plus Initiative • Mentor and Mentee Program • Volunteer Program Sophomore Year • Frederick Douglass Institute • Debate Team • Research Initiatives • Volunteer Program Junior Year • Mock Interviews • Internship Application Senior Year • Résumé Preparation Help • Job Fairs

Becoming a Promising Scholar will enhance your academic experience and set you up for success at IUP—and beyond.

• 72 percent of Promising Scholars graduate from IUP in four years • Cumulative average GPA of 3.24

Learn more or apply online at IUP.edu/PromisingScholars Questions?

Contact Shawn Jones, Associate Director of Admissions 724-357-2230