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James Monroe Scholars Program

James Monroe Scholars are the most academically distinguished undergraduates at William & Mary. Less than 10% of W&M undergraduates receive this prestigious designation. Monroe Scholars demonstrate a concern for community, intellectual depth, curiosity, and devotion to learning for learning’s sake.
Benefits of the Monroe Scholars Program
Monroe Scholars enjoy many opportunities that adapt to evolving interests and career plans. First-year Scholars may apply for funding to support a summer research project to be completed the summer after their first year. Every Sophomore/Junior Scholar is eligible to receive a $3,000 grant to conduct a research project the summer after their sophomore or junior year. Both of these projects are of the Scholars' own design, conducted with close mentorship from a faculty member. The research does not have to be in the area of the student's major. The two projects do not have to be related. This encourages a unique avenue for personal and intellectual growth. Projects may be conducted on the William & Mary campus or at the Scholar’s home, or they may involve travel to specialized domestic or international locations. In addition, Monroe Scholars may apply for a limited number of conference travel grants to further connect with the broader academic research community in their chosen area. 

Scholars are invited to take part in the Monroe Enrichment series throughout the academic year. These informal, interactive sessions allow Monroe Scholars to meet and exchange ideas with William & Mary faculty and outside speakers from a variety of fields.
Becoming a Monroe Scholar

Incoming first-year students and sophomore transfer students are considered for admittance to the program. Undergraduate Admission elects first-year students who are at the top of their high school classes and have standardized test scores in the top five percent nationally.