I was wondering if I have a chance at receiving the presidential scholarship. I’m ranked first in my class and have a 2330 SAT (1530 two part). But my community service isn’t that great, I’ve volunteered about 70 hours outside of school, plus in school throughout junior year, but I know many students have far more hours than I. And what counts as “leadership”? I was a “Teen Leadership Volunteer” at my local hospital, but I was never a team captain or club president or anything. Also, I’m white and middle class, and I’m not sure how that might affect my chances. Is it worth it to ask my guidance counselor to nominate me? Any information and help would be greatly appreciated!
I don’t think I’ll get it but I applied anyway in hopes of making my application look better. It’s really easy for your guidance counselor to fill out the forms, and the essays are all short. I’d take a chance on it if I were you. Also, 6 of the 28 (I believe 28 is the total) are reserved for minorities but the rest are fair game, so I wouldn’t rule yourself out for being white and middle class.
Okay, thank you for the help! I didn’t realize that only 6 were reserved for minorities. Good luck 
Good luck to you too!
You have a high SAT score and are ranked first in your class so as long as you also have good extracurricular involvement/leadership, then you definitely have a solid chance at the scholarship so certainly apply for it
Several years ago, one of our college counselors advised my daughter that Villanova generally gives their larger scholarships to students with hooks(in addition to the 6 reserved for minority students). She applied for presidential, but did not get it, was offered only 10K in merit, not nearly enough to make school affordable. Villanova actually ended up being the most expensive school on her list when all acceptances were in hand. White, unhooked female, SAT 2230, 35 ACT, NMF, good ECs, service, recs, etc.
She had significant financial need as well, which they only met half of. We were surprised that a student with her stats was gapped. All other schools on her list either fully met her need or offered merit exceeding her need.
By all means apply, but understand that your chances are very low without a hook, even with high stats.
Yeah, I’m sort of unsure now… there are 8 short essays to write and so many people apply, I’m not sure it’s worth it. I have a feeling that I’m going to be in your daughters shoes.
I’m applying for the presidential scholarship as well. I’m going to give its try because why not. I think your rank & score make you competitive
Definitely apply!!! I almost didn’t apply because I knew it was so competitive, 8 essays, and already had a scholarship to another school, but I decided to apply anyways. I completely didn’t consider the chance that I could actually get it as I was aware of how competitive it was so when I made it to the finalist interviews I was so excited. At the interview weekend I realized that I loved Villanova and would commit if I got the scholarship. I ended up getting the scholarship and am at Villanova! Feel free to ask me any questions about the Presidential Scholarship.
Oh wow that’s amazing!! Okay, haha, I’ll apply on the off chance that the same wonderful thing happens to me. Thanks!
Is it too early to hear from them yet?
I think we still have at least a week to wait 
is it coming out over email or over snail mail? so anxious
My daughter is waiting to hear as well. Please post if/when you hear. Good luck!!
I think I read it comes over the myNova account. But not positive that’s the only way you hear. It’s this week we all find out!
nothing yet
nothing here.
Notifications have been sent through myNOVA
I’m a finalist!!
Can you tell me anything about the interview weekend? I’m so surprised that I’m a finalist, just like you - I didn’t think i would ever be one. What happens during the weekend?