Harry S. Truman Scholarship

Who Can Apply:

Full-time students pursuing a bachelors degree in their third year of college, or a senior and a resident of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, or a Pacific Island. Students who have completed their bachelor’s degree or are already attending graduate school are not eligible for this scholarship.  Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, or are expecting to receive their citizenship the date the Scholarship will be awarded.  Students must express a commitment to a career in government, educational institutions, or nonprofit organizations.

Award amount:

Up to $30,000 will be awarded to recipients of this Scholarship.  Also, the Foundation also provides assistance with career counseling, internship placement, graduate school admissions and professional development.

History:

The Harry S. Truman Scholarship is named in remembrance of our 33rd president.  Dedicated to education and public service, President Truman often spoke about the importance of promoting young leaders, and envisioned a program for students that would encourage educated citizenship and political responsibility.

How to Apply:

Notice your application will not be complete until all components are complete and received.

1.  You must be nominated by your area’s faculty representative.  Four-year institutions are eligible to nominate up to four students who are in the sophomore or junior class during the school year.  Contact your representative to see if you may be considered for this nomination. Your representative will also be able to give you more information about the nomination process.

2. Once you are nominated by your faculty representative, you may begin the application process.  See sample online application form.

3. There will be an essay component on the application.  See Advice for preparing your best application.

4. You will need three letters of recommendation.  Recommendations need to be obtained from:

  • An individual who can attest to your leadership potential and abilities.
  • Another individual who can attest to your commitment to a career in Public Service.
  • A final individual who can attest to your intellect and prospects for continuing Academic Success.

5. You will be writing a Policy Proposal addressing a problem you wish to address when you enter public service.

6.  If selected as a finalist, you will be asked to attend an interview.

Access complete instructions on the official website.

If you have any other questions or if we may be of further assistance, please contact the Graduate Office. Good luck with your application process.