After applying to UMBC, candidates for the Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars Program complete a separate scholarship application.
The scholarship application requires answers to the following questions. Applicants are encouraged to prepare draft responses to the following questions prior to the start of the application.
- Describe a significant and meaningful public service experience you have had. Examples may include serving the community through volunteer work, taking a leadership role in an organization or club, or other relevant experience. Relate the public service experience to your life currently and in the future.
- What are your educational and career goals?
- Résumé.
- Policy essay: Write an essay (maximum 3 pages, double spaced) on a serious policy problem facing the United States or world. Why does this problem concern you, and what do you think should be done about it? Please provide a list of principal sources you cite.
- Submit two letters of recommendation. The letters should speak to your ability to succeed in the Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars Program and address your analytical ability, writing skills, community engagement and/or leadership. One recommendation should be from a high school teacher and one from another adult member of the community who knows you well (teacher, volunteer supervisor, advisor, etc.). NOTE: If two letters of recommendation were submitted with your Common App, those letters may count as part of your Sondheim Program application. The Common App letters do not need to be re-submitted. HOWEVER, it is recommended that you request letters of recommendation that specifically speak to your ability to succeed in the Sondheim Scholars Program. Two letters of recommendation – either through Common App or this application – are REQUIRED for Sondheim Program consideration.
- Indicate if you are interested in also applying to the Honors College.
Students are encouraged to apply for undergraduate admission by the university’s early action deadline of November 1. Students applying to the Sondheim Scholars Program must submit the Sondheim application and supporting documents to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships by January 15.
Finalists are invited to Scholar Selection Day, where they learn more about the program, meet current Sondheim Scholars, program alumni and UMBC faculty and participate in an interview. For key dates and deadlines, click here.
Students must apply in the senior year of high school for entrance in to the Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars program as UMBC freshmen. Scholars receive generous four-year scholarships in addition to participation in program specific coursework, service-learning opportunities, internships and advising.