Undergraduate Scholarship Program for Individuals from Disadvantaged Backgrounds

What is Undergraduate Scholarship Program for Individuals from Disadvantaged Backgrounds?

This program provides service-conditioned scholarships to individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who agree to pursue undergraduate education at accredited institutions. Individuals must pursue a course of study which prepares them for professions needed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The maximum scholarship per academic year is $20,000. Scholarship funds may only be used for tuition/educational and living expenses incurred while attending school.

Each recipient must agree by written contract to serve as an NIH employee full-time for not less than 10 consecutive weeks of each year during which the individual is receiving a scholarship. In addition, no later than 60 days after obtaining the educational degree, each recipient must begin serving as a full-time NIH employee for one year for each year of NIH scholarship support (a deferment of the service obligation may be obtained if appropriate).

Program Requirements

In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a U.S. national, citizen or permanent resident who is pursuing a bachelor's degree and has a current grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0-point scale or who is within the top 5 percent of your class.

In order to qualify, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:

Household Size*	Maximum Income Level (Per Year)
1	$23,760
2	$32,040
3	$40,320
4	$48,600
5	$56,880
6	$65,160
7	$73,460
8	$81,780

*For households with more than eight people, add $8,320 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.

Application Details

What is the application process for Undergraduate Scholarship Program for Individuals from Disadvantaged Backgrounds?

To apply, please visit the Application Center.