Table of Contents
Introduction
Embarking on a career in biomedical, behavioral, and social science research can be both rewarding and challenging. Fortunately, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) offers a golden opportunity named Undergraduate Scholarship Program (UGSP) for college students and recent graduates to pursue their passion while receiving financial support. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the essential details of the UGSP, providing a roadmap for aspiring scholars.
Background
The UGSP is tailored for students from disadvantaged backgrounds committed to careers in biomedical, behavioral, and social science research. The program provides up to $20,000 per academic year for tuition, educational expenses, and reasonable living costs. Recipients can renew the scholarship for up to four years.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the UGSP, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Be enrolled or accepted as a full-time undergraduate student at an accredited four-year college or university.
- Maintain a GPA of 3.3 or higher on a 4.0 scale or rank within the top five percent of their class.
- Demonstrate exceptional financial need certified by the institution’s financial aid office.
- Pass a federal background check.
Applicants are ineligible if they are high school seniors, already possess an undergraduate degree, are enrolled in an advanced degree program, or cannot fulfill the payback requirements.
Benefits
UGSP Scholars can receive up to $20,000 annually, directly paid to their university for tuition and living expenses. Additionally, scholars undertake service obligations at the NIH Intramural Research Program, including a ten-week summer internship and one year of full-time work post-graduation.
Application Process: The application period for UGSP opens in early January 2024, closing on March 29, 2024, at 12 noon ET. Early application review starts on March 15, 2024, and references are due by April 12, 2024. Exceptional Financial Need (EFN) certification is required by May 17, 2024, at 12 noon ET.
How To Apply
- Use the NIH Application Center.
- Select ‘Undergraduate Scholarship Program’ as your preferred program.
- Ensure eligibility before starting the application.
- Complete required profile sections, import relevant information, and submit coursework, CV/resume, references, a letter/statement, and financial need details.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Application opens | Early January 2024 |
| Application closes | March 29, 2024, 12 noon ET |
| Early application review | March 15, 2024 |
| References due | April 12, 2024, 12 noon ET |
| EFN certification deadline | May 17, 2024, 12 noon ET |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UGSP opens doors for aspiring researchers to receive financial support, gain valuable research experience, and contribute to the NIH mission. Seize this opportunity by applying wisely and preparing diligently for a future in biomedical, behavioral, and social science research.
