The Richmond Scholars Program at the University of Richmond is the university’s most prestigious merit award for incoming undergraduates: a small, selective community of high-achieving students who receive full academic support plus special mentoring and enrichment opportunities.
Quick facts (at a glance)University of Richmond Richmond Scholars Program 2026
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship name | Richmond Scholars Program — University of Richmond |
| Level | Undergraduate (first-year applicants) |
| Award | Full tuition plus on-campus housing and food for selected designations (renewable). |
| Number awarded | Limited — only a small cohort of top incoming students each year. |
| How considered | Automatic consideration when you apply for admission by the Richmond Scholars deadline (see below). |
| International students | Eligible — non-U.S. citizens receive full consideration if application is on file by the deadline. |
Who can apply?
- High school seniors (first-year undergraduate applicants) who will be entering the University of Richmond.
- Domestic and international students with outstanding academic records, leadership, and contributions to community life. International applicants are explicitly eligible for full consideration if they meet the application deadline
Requirements & selection criteria
Selection focuses on a combination of academic excellence and demonstrated leadership/promise. Typical expectations include:
- Exceptional academic record (transcripts, class rank where applicable).
- Strong standardized test scores when submitted (test-optional policies may apply; check current admission requirements).
- Evidence of leadership, service, extracurricular achievements, and a clear sense of intellectual purpose.
- Essays / personal statement as part of the regular admission application.
- Admission application must be submitted by the Richmond Scholars deadline to receive full consideration. The program values applicants who will contribute to a small, interdisciplinary community.
What the scholarship offers
Full tuition (one of the university’s top merit awards).
- On-campus housing and food for certain scholar designations (confirm designation benefits).
- A $5,500 one-time enrichment grant to support an academic enhancement activity (for eligible scholars).
- Priority course registration, faculty mentorship, and access to special programming and events. The award is renewable for up to eight consecutive semesters of full-time enrollment when you continue to meet program requirements.
Deadline & application process
- Key deadline: Apply for admission by December 1 (applicants on file by this date are automatically considered for Richmond Scholars). If you apply after the deadline you may not receive full consideration for this award — check the Office of Admission for updates or alternate application plans (Early Decision options may have separate dates).
- How to apply: Submit your undergraduate application (Common App or Coalition/apply portal as accepted), required transcripts, recommendations (if requested), and any optional materials by the chosen admission plan deadline. For international applicants, follow the University’s instructions for transcript evaluation and visa documentation.
Tips to strengthen your application
- Highlight leadership roles and sustained impact in essays and recommendation letters.
- Provide specific examples of research, creative work, or community projects.
- Apply early and carefully follow University of Richmond’s application checklist to ensure your file is complete by Dec 1.
- Contact the Office of Scholars & Fellowships or the Office of Admission if you have questions — they can clarify deadlines and required materials.
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