Award Description
The Truman Scholarship recognizes junior level students who plan to go on to careers in public service and have current outstanding service and leadership records as well as an academic record that indicates success in at the graduate level. Successful applications are awarded $30,000 towards a graduate program of their choice as well as access to leadership training resources and career support.
This scholarship honors the legacy of President Harry S. Truman. President Truman wanted to encourage people after him to live his values of public service. The primary mission of this scholarship is to give support to the U.S.' future public servants; those who wish to hold leadership positions in careers that make a difference and deliver crucial services to the American public.
Award Details
The Truman Scholarship provides:
- $30,000 towards a public service-related graduate degree in any field.
- Access to Truman Scholars Leadership Week: an event that introduces scholars to the scholarship and available resources.
- Access to a Summer Institute: after graduation, Truman Scholars may attend an 8-week institute in Washington DC to arrange for internships with government agencies or nonprofit organizations and attend seminars and workshops.
Eligibility
- US Citizens, US National residents of American Samoa, or expecting their citizenship by the date of the award;
- Currently enrolled at a US-based accredited institution;
- In their penultimate year of school (for candidates graduating in four years or more) or in their final year of school (for candidates graduating in three years or fewer);
- Nominated by either their current institution of study or their former institution of study for transfer or community college applicants. Schools are limited to four nominees plus three additional transfer nominations; and,
- Planning to attend graduate school in pursuit of a career in public service. The Foundation encourages time between undergraduate and graduate school, so candidates need not commit to going immediately.
Read more about what the Truman Foundation intends by careers in public service.
Application Timeline
The Truman Scholarship application requires a university interview and endorsement letter. Please contact LeAnn Adam to discuss your interest in applying.
- OSU campus deadline: January 6, 2025
- National nomination deadline: February 4, 2025
Get Started
Check out our Truman slideshow for more information!
Contact LeAnn Adam or Becca Otto in National and Global Scholarships Advising to talk about how to begin your application!