# Udall Scholarship The Udall Scholarship, offered by the prestigious Udall Foundation, is a merit-based scholarship program designed to support high school seniors with a strong passion for environmental issues or Native American policy and health care. This program recognizes students who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to creating meaningful change in their communities and beyond. With a focus on STEM fields, environmental sustainability, and Native American advocacy, the Udall Scholarship empowers students to pursue their academic and career goals while contributing to critical global and cultural issues. ## Program Structure The Udall Scholarship is offered in a virtual format, making it accessible to students across the United States. The program provides financial support to scholarship recipients and connects them to a nationwide network of like-minded individuals and mentors. While much of the program is centered on providing scholarship funding, recipients also gain access to leadership development opportunities and resources to advance their impact in their respective fields. The scholarship is awarded annually, and candidates go through a competitive selection process. Scholarship recipients are recognized for their potential to make significant contributions in the areas of environmental sustainability, tribal public policy, or Native American health care. Selected students join a network of Udall Scholars, gaining lifelong access to resources, networking opportunities, and support from the Udall Foundation. ## What Students Experience Recipients of the Udall Scholarship are celebrated for their academic achievements and their dedication to solving real-world challenges. The program offers not only financial assistance but also mentorship opportunities from experts in the fields of environmental science, policy, and Native American advocacy. Scholars engage with a network of like-minded peers and professionals who share their passion for creating positive change. Through virtual programming, students can participate in discussions, workshops, and events that build leadership skills and deepen their understanding of their chosen area of focus. The Udall Foundation fosters a collaborative environment that helps students grow as leaders and advocates for sustainability and cultural preservation. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Earning the Udall Scholarship is a significant achievement that can greatly enhance a student’s college application. It highlights the recipient’s academic excellence, leadership abilities, and dedication to addressing critical issues in STEM, environmental sustainability, or Native American advocacy. These qualities are highly valued by colleges and universities, as they demonstrate a student’s ability to make a meaningful impact in their community and beyond. Additionally, the scholarship’s focus on leadership and service reflects a student’s commitment to personal growth and civic engagement, both of which are key qualities sought by competitive colleges. Being part of the Udall Scholar community also provides unique opportunities for mentorship and networking that can help students stand out during the college admissions process. ## Eligibility The Udall Scholarship is open to high school seniors (grade 12) in the United States who meet the following criteria: - Demonstrate a strong interest and commitment to environmental issues, tribal public policy, or Native American health care. - Show leadership potential and academic achievement in their chosen area of focus. - Students with Native American or Alaska Native heritage who are pursuing careers in tribal public policy or Native health care are especially encouraged to apply. ## How to Participate To apply for the Udall Scholarship, students must complete an application through the Udall Foundation’s website. The application process typically includes submitting essays, letters of recommendation, and a record of academic achievements and extracurricular involvement. Applicants are encouraged to highlight their leadership experiences and their dedication to addressing environmental or Native American issues. Visit the Udall Foundation’s official website for more information about the scholarship, including application deadlines and specific requirements. By applying to the Udall Scholarship, students take an important step toward advancing their academic and career goals while joining a community of passionate changemakers.