Harry S. Truman Scholarship
Offered by Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation
About This Scholarship
The Truman Scholarship is the federal memorial to President Harry S. Truman and the premier award for college juniors headed into public service. Winners receive up to $30,000 for graduate or professional school, plus benefits that are arguably worth more than the check: priority admission partnerships, dedicated Scholar programming, internship placement in the federal government, and a hiring preference for federal jobs.
Scholars are chosen not for grades alone but for a demonstrated record of leadership and a credible commitment to a career in government, education, the nonprofit sector, or public advocacy. Each candidate must be nominated by their undergraduate institution, and each school may only put forward a limited slate, so campus selection is the first hurdle.
The application itself is substantial — a policy proposal, extensive short essays on leadership and public service, and a faculty representative's endorsement — followed by regional finalist interviews in the spring.
Eligibility
- US citizens or US nationals
- Full-time college juniors (or seniors at institutions where the third year is the final one) pursuing a bachelor's degree
- Committed to a career in public service — government, nonprofit, education, or advocacy
- Must be nominated by their undergraduate institution's Truman Faculty Representative
- Strong record of campus and community leadership
How To Apply
- Find your campus Truman Faculty Representative early in the fall — nomination is required and internal campus deadlines run well ahead of the national one
- Work through the online application: leadership record, public service history, policy proposal, and short essays
- Secure your letters of recommendation and institutional nomination
- Submit all materials by February 2, 2027 at 11:59 pm your time zone; finalists are notified February 15, 2027 and interview regionally between March 1 and April 15, 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
What can the $30,000 be used for?
The award funds graduate or professional school — law school, public policy programs, medical school, and similar paths tied to your public service goals. Scholars have several years after college graduation to begin using the funding.
Can sophomores or seniors apply?
The competition is for juniors — students planning one more full year of undergraduate study after the application year. Seniors are generally not eligible, with a narrow exception for institutions whose degree programs finish in three years.
How many students can my school nominate?
Each institution may nominate a limited number of candidates through its Truman Faculty Representative, so most campuses run an internal selection first. Ask your fellowships office about its process no later than early fall.