The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program was authorized by the United States Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Barry M. Goldwater, who served his country for 56 years as a soldier and statesman, including 30 years of service in the U.S. Senate. The Purpose of the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation, is to alleviate a critical current and future shortage of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians and engineers.

The Foundation awards undergraduate scholarships to outstanding students, to be known as Barry M. Goldwater Scholars, in the spring for use during the academic year. The awards are made on the basis of merit to two groups of students--those who will be college juniors and those who will be college seniors--who have outstanding potential and intend to pursue careers in mathematics, the natural sciences, or engineering. Each scholarship covers eligible expenses for tuition, fees, books, and room and board, up to a maximum of $7,500 annually.

To be considered for nomination as a Goldwater Scholar, a student must:

1. Be a full-time matriculated sophomore or junior pursuing a degree at an accredited institution of higher education during the academic year. "Sophomore" is defined as a student who plans two more years of full-time undergraduate study beginning in the fall semester. Sophomore nominees can expect to receive a maximum of two years of support. Students in two-year colleges who plan to transfer to a baccalaureate program at another institution may be nominated. "Junior" is defined as a student who plans one more year of full-time undergraduate study beginning in the fall semester. Junior nominees can expect to receive a maximum of one year of support.
2. Have a college grade-point average of at least "B" (or the equivalent) and be in the upper fourth of his or her class.
3. Be a United States Citizen.

For further information, please contact Dr. Michael Bassman in The University Honors Program office at 252.328.6373.