Program Overview

McKnight Scholars Leadership Program

The McKnight Scholars Leadership Program is a prestigious program that offers a range of benefits to selected students.

What You'll Receive

• A full out-of-state tuition waiver for four years
• $5,000 per year for four years
• A McKnight Scholars study abroad program
• Exclusive access to leadership courses
• Individual mentoring from fellow McKnight Scholars
• Leadership aptitude testing and coaching
• Connections to current and past McKnight Scholars

Eligibility

Eligible students will be selected based on demonstrated leadership ability, community service and/or work experience, academic success, and extracurricular activities. To be eligible, students must be from out of state, with preference given to students from rural communities. Transfer students are eligible.

Application Process

The McKnight Scholar Leadership Program begins with the selection of a dynamic community of out-of-state students with a passion for service and extraordinary potential for influence.

Applicant Timeline

• Nov. 1 (midnight): First-round application and nomination deadline
• Dec. 31: First-round selection notifications are made (selection, denial or movement to the next round)
• Feb. 1 (midnight): Second-round application and nomination deadline
• March 31: Second-round selection notifications are made (selection or denial)

Selection Criteria

Typically, approximately 50 students are chosen each year based on the following requirements:

• Out-of-state, incoming student
• Acceptance to OSU
• Proven leadership ability
• Commitment to service Additional criteria that is considered but not required includes:
  • 27 ACT or 1220 SAT or above
  • 3.75 GPA
  • Preference for rural communities

Frequently Asked Questions

• Full admission to OSU is required, which includes a transcript. No additional transcript needs to be attached.
• Standardized tests are not the main focus in selection. However, either an SAT or ACT is looked at as a sign of academic potential. One of these scores must be provided for consideration.
• Identify individuals who you have a good relationship with and that will be reliable in completing the nomination form.
• A completed application and acceptance to OSU is required to be considered.
• The scholarship office administers the selection process using your information provided in the application process. A committee connects that information to your application for the McKnight Selection Committee to make all decisions.