Presidential Scholars Program
Become a leader and make an impact as a Hastings College Presidential Scholar. This premier program is your launchpad for a successful and meaningful college career.
You’ll join a select group of first-year students for a unique experience of leadership and civic engagement, all under the direct mentorship of College President Dr. Rich Lloyd and Vice-President for Academic Affairs Dr. Wayne Riggs.
The Award
Students selected to participate in the Presidential Scholars program will receive a $33,000 standalone scholarship. The scholarship is renewable for four years, contingent on good academic standing and your active participation in the program. Because of the significant scholarship for this program, it replaces both the academic and plus one scholarships typically awarded.
Who is eligible?
The Presidential Scholars Program is open to incoming first-year students of all academic majors who have applied and been admitted to Hastings College with a cumulative high school GPA of 3.75 or higher.
We’re looking for students who are excited to get involved and make a difference on campus and in the Hastings community.
The best applicants may demonstrate:
- A passion for learning across a wide range of subjects.
- Experience in leadership or a strong desire to grow as a leader.
- A commitment to community service and civic engagement..
The Presidential Scholar Experience
For students participating in the program, your first year is designed to build a strong foundation for success at Hastings College and beyond. As a member of this select group, you’ll:
- Enroll in an exclusive block one course with your peers to explore leadership, academics and civic duty.
- Receive direct mentorship from President Dr. Rich Lloyd and VPAA Dr. Wayne Riggs, serving as a trusted advisor on the student experience.
- Engage in high-impact activities that connect you with campus governance, community service projects and professional development opportunities.
- Serve as a Hastings College Ambassador, representing the student body at important campus and recruitment events.
Note that in order to build a strong and supportive community, all Presidential Scholars are required to live on campus their first year.
How to Apply
If you meet the the requirements above, including a 3.75 or higher high school GPA, first apply to Hastings College. Be sure to complete your Hastings College application (including providing your transcripts) so your application can be processed.
After you apply to Hastings College, then you can apply to be a Presidential Scholar.
The Presidential Scholar application includes submitting an activities resume and essay prompt. Selected students will be invited to interview in-person if you are visiting campus or live nearby or online.
The application is open for Fall 2027 applicants.
Here is the essay prompt to help you prepare:
Tell us about a moment in a classroom where a new idea or understanding suddenly “clicked” for you — an “a-ha” moment that changed your perspective.
Describe this experience and lesson you learned — how did this insight help you grow as a person or a leader? Provide an example example of how you applied this learning.
Questions?
Contact your Hastings College admissions counselor or reach out to our admissions office at admissions@hastings.edu or 402.461.7315.