<p>@RandomNumber, you and all applicants were reviewed for the Monroe Scholarship but unfortunately we have more qualified applicants for that award than we have awards to give. The good news is that select students at the end of their freshman year can become Monroes through an application process.</p>
<p>W&M Admission,</p>
<p>I am deciding between W&M and UVA and look forward to attending W&M Admitted Students Day this Saturday. I knew that VA Echols took applicants during frosh year, but was not aware that W&M did so for Monroes. When you state that “select students” may apply at the end of frosh year, what is the criteria for this selection to apply? I know at UVA any student may apply and they take about 45% of the applicants. Thanks.</p>
<p>In the summer between Freshman and Sophomore year, the top 100 or so students based on GPA are invited to apply. The total number of Monroe scholars per class is about 125. The number of scholarships left for rising Sophomores depends on how many Freshmen who are offered the honor decide to attend W&M, so some years there are fewer slots left than other years. For those invited to apply after Freshman year, the process includes submitting recommendations, showing involvement in and dedication to the school, and a writing a research proposal.</p>
<p>Bayberry nailed it. Keep in mind that Monroe Scholars are not the only students who can participate in undergraduate research (the primary benefit of being a Monroe is a guaranteed summer research stipend). Undergraduate research is open to all students at W&M through the Charles Center. During Day for Admitted Students there’s a session on research and scholarship you might want to attend.</p>
<p>Bayberry & W&M Admissions,</p>
<p>Thanks for the information. We will definitely attend the research presentation on Saturday at Admitted Students Day.</p>