Park Scholarships
Offered by North Carolina State University
About This Scholarship
The Park Scholarships program is NC State University's flagship four-year merit scholarship, awarded on the basis of outstanding accomplishments and potential in four pillars: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. The award covers tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, travel, a computer stipend, and personal expenses — valued at approximately $129,000 for in-state students and $244,000 for out-of-state students for the Class of 2031.
Unlike many flagship full rides, there is no nomination gatekeeping: candidates apply directly through the Park Scholarships application portal alongside their NC State admission application. The application asks for two essays, two recommendation letters, and details on advanced coursework, and it rides on the same November 1 deadline as NC State's Early Action admission application.
Selection runs through the winter: semifinalists are notified in December, interviewed by Zoom in January, and finalists travel to Raleigh in early March for final selection activities before decisions land in late March. An academic enrichment program — retreats, learning labs, and civic engagement — complements the money for all four years.
Eligibility
- High school senior applying for first-year admission to NC State (transfer students are not eligible)
- Minimum unweighted GPA of 3.80 (non-rounded)
- U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, or graduate of a U.S. high school
How To Apply
- Submit the NC State Early Action admission application by November 1, 2026
- Submit the Park Scholarships application by the same November 1, 2026 deadline, including two essays and information on advanced coursework
- Arrange two recommendation letters
- If selected, complete the Zoom semifinal interview in January and attend final selection activities in Raleigh in March
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Park Scholarship worth?
Approximately $129,000 for in-state students and $244,000 for out-of-state students over four years (Class of 2031 figures), covering tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, travel, a computer stipend, and personal expenses.
Do I need to be nominated?
No. There is no nomination process — students apply directly through the Park Scholarships application portal alongside their NC State admission application.
Is there a GPA cutoff?
Yes. Applicants must have a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.80, non-rounded, and must be applying for first-year admission.