First-year students with fewer than 30 credit hours completed are not eligible and neither are students taking fewer than 12 credit hours over a calendar year. Please see the official application for complete details. Academic achievement is important, but it is only one of the three main eligibility criteria. Some of the judges place greater emphasis on academics, while others may value community and campus service over grades. Previous recipients typically maintain high GPAs while balancing part-time work, classes, and community and campus activities.
Students studying any major and discipline are eligible.
However, the judges, at their discretion may place greater weight on the achievements of students in academically demanding majors. However, the criteria appreciates and recognizes students who support themselves financially through work and scholarships. Students are encouraged to nominate themselves. Students do not have to be nominated by their schools to be eligible. First, get a copy of the official application, which gives specific application instructions and spells out eligibility requirements.