Promising Scholars Program

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The Promising Scholars Application for 2025–26 is now open. Apply here!

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What is the Promising Scholars Program?

The Promising Scholars Program rewards your hard work. This competitive scholarship program for high-achieving Pennsylvania students blends financial support with academic and professional development, supporting the success of outstanding minority high school students and first-generation college students. Scholarships range from $500 to $2,500 and are renewable for up to four years.

“The Promising Scholars program is a true game-changer for graduating high school seniors. It provides the academic support and, most importantly, the scholarships these students need to succeed in college. Time and again, I've heard nothing but positive stories from my students about their experiences with the program and the dedicated professors and administrators who guide them. It instills a sense of achievement, alleviates financial burdens, and ultimately equips our future generation for a promising future.”—Loretta Perna

“I owe a debt of gratitude to IUP and the Promising Scholars Program. In just two semesters, the Promising Scholars Program has already done so much for me. When I was deciding on which school to attend, the program helped me see the potential of IUP as my future home. The overnight visit gave me and my mother a sense of the campus and staff. The Promising Scholars Program values me as a student, and they went above and beyond to make accommodations for me to attend in the fall. Thanks to their support, I am now on the Dean's list and adjusting well to my new home.”—Iya Nealy

“The Promising Scholars Program provided me with countless opportunities to excel academically and professionally. From the moment I arrived on campus for the overnight visit, I felt welcomed and supported by the staff. This program has not only helped me financially but also inspired personal growth and development. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and proud to be a part of the Crimson Hawk community as a Promising Scholar.”—Isaiah Perdue

“The Promising Scholars Program represents excellence. Many are campus leaders. All come to IUP ready to leave their mark on the world. They inspire and challenge me to be the best instructor I can be. The entire IUP community benefits from engaging with our Promising Scholars students, whether it's in a formal classroom setting, an extracurricular activity, or simply hanging out. Their energy, creativity, and commitment to excellence enrich IUP's campus culture, community, and academic achievements.”—Dr. Erin Conlin

“Promising Scholars helped me make my journey at IUP possible. Not only did this program help me financially, but it also helped me grow as a student and as a leader. Without this scholarship, I would not have been able to go to school. Finances play a large role when choosing a college, especially when you’re a first-generation college student. So, when I was presented with this opportunity, I knew that it was the smartest decision for me. I am glad I chose IUP and that I chose to apply to this program.”—Milady Lagunas

Highlights of the Program

The Promising Scholars Program is not merely a scholarship but a transformative initiative aimed at fostering excellence at IUP and preparing students for future success. Admitted students and their families are invited to an enriching overnight campus visit, providing opportunities to explore the campus, engage with current Promising Scholars, and gain valuable insights. Moreover, students are encouraged to reside in the Promising Scholars Living Learning Community, where they can forge meaningful connections within their cohort.

Another aspect of the program is the retention factor. Retention features include:

Study Hall Hours – Freshmen students are required to produce 80 study hours a semester.
Mentor/Mentee Program – Incoming students receive a current Promising Scholars student as a mentor for guidance.
Frederick Douglass Institute – this program focuses on intercultural research and advocacy related to diversity and equity at IUP.
Debate Team
Volunteer Hours
Job Preparation:
- Mock Interviews
- Internship applications
- Résumé preparation
- Job fairs

Promising Scholars Students by the Numbers

On Average…

High School Profile

1080 average SAT test scores
3.64 average high school GPA

Promising Scholars Students at IUP

77% Retention rate
72% will graduate in four years
Cumulative GPA of 3.25 at IUP

Attending IUP is more than a step toward your economic future; it is an action in the present. The Promising Scholars Program, a unique opportunity at IUP, significantly shapes students' present and future. Here at IUP, people will take you for who you are now rather than what you will be later. IUP has become home for me. I’ve grown here, and I’ve found myself here. I have met people who are now more than just friends—they’re like family.
Charles Coleman ’22
Public Health/Mental and Behavioral Major, Economics Minor, from Pittsburgh

How to Become a Promising Scholar

First, you’ll need to apply to IUP and be admitted by October 31. For best consideration for Promising Scholars, submit your application early.

Next, complete your Promising Scholars application online at:

Promising Scholars Online Application

Applications will be considered based on

Academic excellence
Class rank
Community involvement
Extracurricular activities
An essay or recommendation letter (optional)

Be one of the first qualified students to apply, and you’ll be invited to an interview event.

A limited number of students will be selected to participate on each interview date. If selected, you’ll be scheduled for an interview and have the chance to learn more about IUP and the Promising Scholars Program from our staff, alumni, and current students. Mark your calendar for the interview date in your region:

Promising Scholars West — November 23 (IUP Campus)
Promising Scholars East — November 26 (Philadelphia)

The interview—together with the strength of your high school academics, demonstrated leadership, and participation in extracurricular activities—will determine your eligibility to be selected into the program.

Finding Mentors, His Major, and the Path to a Rewarding Career
"Coming to Indiana, PA for school all the way from Philadelphia was very intimidating. Being a member of the Promising Scholars Program provided me with the funding and community I needed to flourish in college."
—Matthew Solomon '18

Extra Features in the Program Unlock Your Full Potential

Promising Scholars Overnight Campus Visit

All new Promising Scholars are invited to a two-day overnight visit program. During the visit, you and your parents will have the opportunity to experience the university up close. This is a great time to participate in Experience IUP, our admitted student program. You'll also meet other Promising Scholar students.

IUP pays for transportation and lodging for students traveling from the Philadelphia area to help them visit us from across the state. Space is limited.

Student Testimonial

devon charles with Norm, the IUP mascot Hi, I’m Devon Charles, an incoming freshman at IUP. I’m here to talk about how the overnight Promising Scholars visit solidified my choice to attend IUP. Before making my decision, I was worried about being welcomed into a new space. I am originally from another state school town and for convenience, I was planning to go there instead. However, as soon as I arrived on IUP’s campus, I felt instantly welcomed. The speakers really made IUP seem like a good safe place for me, especially being a young black man. We got to tour campus, eat at the dining hall, and learn more about what IUP has to offer.

I felt very welcomed by the students who were there as well. Current Promising Scholars and organizations at the overnight made me feel included. Another big thing that convinced me even more was Elkin Hall. That place showed me that I will have a home away from home.

The Retention Program

Throughout your years in the Promising Scholars Program, you'll take part in experiences that encourage you to reach your full potential in both academics and leadership. You'll have support and guidance from IUP's faculty and administrators to help you succeed. As a Promising Scholar, you'll participate in the following extra activities:

Freshman Year (2.75 GPA requirement)

Study Hall
Academic Plus Initiative
Mentor and Mentee Program
Volunteer Program

Sophomore Year (3.00 GPA requirement)

Frederick Douglass Institute
Debate Team
Research Initiatives
Volunteer Program

Junior Year (3.00 GPA requirement)

Mock Interviews
Internship Applications

Senior Year (3.00 GPA)

Résumé Preparation Help
Job Fairs

The Living Learning Community

Immerse Yourself: Join Our Living-Learning Community

Live on campus in a tight-knit community of Promising Scholars. This built-in component of our program is a big advantage as you start college.

Connecting with a community of students from Day 1 helps you find others who share your interests or goals. You’ll form bonds with your professors outside of the classroom and enjoy fun social events and academic activities with the community. Our suite-style residence halls, in the heart of campus, are close to everything.

Admissions Office
Sutton Hall, Suite 120
1011 South Drive
Indiana, PA 15705
Phone: 724-357-2230
Fax: 724-357-6281
admissions-inquiry@iup.edu

Office Hours

Monday–Friday

8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Summer: 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.