Program Summary –
Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars receive generous four-year awards, often covering the greater part of the cost of attendance at UMBC. Students must apply in the senior year of high school for entrance into the Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars Program. Selected scholars will be offered scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 annually for in-state students or $10,000 to $22,000 annually for out-of-state students.
Scholars are selected based on factors such as the strength of their written application, their demonstrated commitment to public service, and the impression made in their interview. Students of all majors who demonstrate a strong interest in public issues and policy are welcome in the program. Please visit our Eligibility page for more details.
Program Benefit –
The Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars Program is more than a scholarship. Sondheim Scholars are part of a learning community of like-minded students interested in public service and public policy. Students take courses together and become actively involved in the campus and community through service-learning and leadership positions. They meet with well-known researchers and public leaders to discuss career opportunities and the important problems of society. Our program emphasizes involvement in service, internships, and research in order to prepare Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars for their future careers in the public interest and for lives as involved citizens.