Presidential Scholars Program

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.

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 genuine 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 First-Block 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

There are three options to apply for the Presidential Scholars program — but all require you to apply and be admitted to Hastings College. Apply to Hastings here.

After you apply to Hastings College, choose the option below that works best for you:

1. Apply for the Community Leadership Challenge and indicate your interest in the Presidential Scholars Program on your application. Details and application.
2. Apply for the Jackson Scholars program – either through the ‘Emerging Visions’ Juried Art Show or the Independent Process. For either one, just select you’re interest in the Presidential Scholars program on your application. Details and applications.
3. Direct application: Apply and be admitted to Hastings College with a cumulative high school GPA of 3.75 or higher, and complete the separate Presidential Scholars application, which includes submitting an activities resume and essay prompt. Selected students will be invited to interview in-person or online.