Luminary Scholars

UTRGV Luminary Scholars

The UTRGV Luminary Scholarship program offers the brightest incoming college freshmen from all disciplines a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in an unparalleled learning environment. By sharing unique skills and perspectives with the greater RGV community, each Luminary Scholar can enhance the experience of a fellow student or community member at any point along the academic journey. Luminary Scholars and their accomplishments will ultimately help elevate UTRGV’s status as a global leader in higher education and serve as ambassadors for the university wherever their light shines.

QUALIFICATIONS

Academic Achievement

Applicant must demonstrate strong academic ability, as evidenced by high school course rigor, class rank, GPA, and SAT/ACT score.
_{*Graduate and/or earn a high school diploma from an accredited high school or homeschool, and enroll as a UTRGV Freshman the fall immediately following high school graduation.}

Leadership Experience

Applicant must demonstrate responsibility and leadership via extracurricular involvement, work, or volunteer participation while in high school.

Community Involvement

Applicant must demonstrate a commitment to community involvement while in high school.

Citizenship and Residency

Applicant must be a U.S. citizen, Permanent Resident, or meet Texas residency requirements.

College Admission

Applicant must submit the ApplyTexas U.S. Freshman Admission Application, and be admitted to UTRGV by December 1.

On-Campus Residency

Applicant must complete the University Housing Application and commit to live on campus for the first two academic years. Second-year students will serve as mentors to first-year recipients.

Rio Grande Valley Employment Commitment

Selected scholars must pledge to work in the Rio Grande Valley for each year beyond their undergraduate education that is funded. For example, a three-year graduate or professional program would require a three-year commitment to working in the Rio Grande Valley post-graduation.

APPLY NOW

How to Become a Scholar?

Step 1 - Apply for Admission

Complete the Freshmen ApplyTexas admission application and be admitted by December 1 at goapplytexas.org

Step 2 - Apply for Scholarship

Complete the UTRGV Excellence Scholarship Application by December 1 at utrgv.edu/applyscholarships

Submit two letters of recommendation (one must be from a high school teacher, counselor, or school administrator)
Luminary Scholar Essay
Resume (extracurricular activities, leadership positions, community service, work experience, etc.)

Step 3 - Apply for Housing

Submit UTRGV Housing application at utrgv.edu/home

Step 4 - Participate in On-campus Interview

The UTRGV Luminary Scholars selection committee will review applicants and offer interviews to top candidates (not all applicants will be selected for an interview)