For high-achieving students looking to pursue undergraduate studies in the United States, the Emory University Scholar Programs offer more than just scholarships they provide a transformative educational experience. These programs are designed not only to reward academic excellence but to cultivate leadership, service, and intellectual engagement at one of the most prestigious universities in the country.
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Emory University is known for its rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and a strong commitment to ethical leadership and global citizenship. Its Scholar Programs are among the most competitive in the nation, attracting outstanding students from all over the world.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore what the Emory University Scholar Programs are, what they offer, how to apply, and why they are among the most sought-after opportunities in U.S. higher education.
About Emory University
Founded in 1836, Emory University is a top-ranked private research university with a mission rooted in inquiry, innovation, and impact. With over 15,000 students and nine academic divisions, Emory combines the resources of a major research institution with the intimate learning environment of a liberal arts college.
Emory is home to two undergraduate colleges:
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Emory College of Arts and Sciences (located on the Atlanta campus)
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Oxford College of Emory University (located in Oxford, Georgia)
Students admitted to Emory University Scholar Programs can choose to study at either campus, depending on their preferences and educational goals.
What Are Emory University Scholar Programs?
The Emory University Scholar Programs are a set of prestigious merit-based scholarships and enrichment programs designed to attract and support exceptionally talented undergraduate students. These programs recognize students for their academic achievements, leadership skills, community service, and potential to make meaningful contributions to society.
Unlike need-based financial aid, the Scholar Programs are awarded based on merit. They include both full-tuition and full-ride scholarships, along with access to special leadership development initiatives, mentorship, and community engagement opportunities.
There are three primary Scholar Programs at Emory:
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Emory Scholars Program
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Oxford Scholars Program
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Goizueta Scholars Program
Each of these programs is tailored to different academic interests and campus experiences.
1. Emory Scholars Program
The Emory Scholars Program is the flagship merit scholarship program at Emory College of Arts and Sciences in Atlanta. It seeks students with extraordinary academic records, intellectual curiosity, and a drive to lead and serve.
Key Benefits:
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Full or partial tuition scholarships for four years
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Priority access to research opportunities, internships, and global experiences
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Mentorship from faculty and university leaders
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A close-knit community of peers who are equally committed to excellence and service
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Invitations to exclusive seminars, networking events, and enrichment programs
Scholars in this program often go on to receive prestigious national and international awards such as the Rhodes, Marshall, and Fulbright Scholarships.
2. Oxford Scholars Program
The Oxford Scholars Program is based at Oxford College, Emory’s original campus, where students complete the first two years of their undergraduate education in a more intimate setting before continuing on the Atlanta campus.
This program values students who are ready to thrive in a tight-knit, collaborative academic community.
Key Benefits:
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Full and partial tuition scholarships for the two years at Oxford College
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Access to faculty mentorship and leadership development programs
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A highly engaged learning environment with small class sizes
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A seamless transition to Emory College or another Emory division after two years
Oxford Scholars have the opportunity to engage deeply with faculty and peers, benefiting from a liberal arts-focused curriculum in a supportive community.
3. Goizueta Scholars Program
Tailored for students interested in business and entrepreneurship, the Goizueta Scholars Program is part of Emory’s highly regarded Goizueta Business School. It is designed for students who demonstrate passion and potential for business leadership and innovation.
Key Benefits:
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Merit-based scholarships ranging from partial tuition to full tuition
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Guaranteed admission to Goizueta’s BBA program in the junior year
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Early access to business school faculty, resources, and career services
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Personalized career advising and leadership development
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Opportunities for internships, global programs, and entrepreneurship competitions
This program empowers students to begin their business journey from day one and prepares them for leadership roles in industries across the globe.
General Benefits of Emory Scholar Programs
While the exact benefits may vary depending on the program, all Emory University Scholar Programs offer:
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Prestigious recognition as a top merit scholar
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Access to Emory’s expansive alumni and professional networks
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Priority consideration for leadership opportunities and research funding
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A vibrant, intellectually engaged scholar community
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Faculty mentoring and personalized academic advising
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Support for study abroad and global engagement experiences
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Enrichment retreats, leadership workshops, and community service projects
Beyond the financial aspect, these programs are about opportunity, growth, and impact. Scholars are encouraged to stretch beyond academics and actively contribute to the campus and broader community.
Who Should Apply?
Emory University Scholar Programs are intended for students who demonstrate:
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Outstanding academic performance (typically in the top 5–10% of their class)
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Strong leadership in school or community settings
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Clear evidence of integrity, creativity, resilience, and initiative
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Passion for learning and meaningful engagement with the world around them
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Readiness to contribute to the Emory community and beyond
It’s not just about having a high GPA or test score it’s about who you are, what you’ve done, and what you aspire to become.
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Apply to Emory University
To be considered for any Scholar Program, you must apply to Emory University by November 15 (Early Decision I or Early Action). On your application, select that you wish to be considered for merit-based scholarships.
Step 2: Submit All Application Materials
Ensure your Common App or Coalition Application, transcripts, recommendations, and any required test scores (if applicable) are submitted by the deadline.
Step 3: No Separate Scholarship Application Required
There is no additional application for the Scholar Programs. Your admission application will automatically be considered for scholarship eligibility.
Step 4: Finalist Selection and Interview
Finalists are notified in February and invited to Scholars Finalists Visit Day, which includes interviews, workshops, and interactions with faculty and current scholars. This event plays a key role in final scholarship decisions.
Step 5: Scholarship Offers and Enrollment
Selected scholars receive offers alongside their admission letters. Once accepted, they begin receiving communication about program events, orientations, and academic advising.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
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Start Early: Give yourself time to thoughtfully complete your application. Rushed work rarely stands out.
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Show, Don’t Just Tell: Use specific examples to demonstrate leadership, impact, or intellectual curiosity.
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Be Authentic: Your essays and extracurriculars should reflect your true interests and values.
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Ask for Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your character and potential.
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Highlight Service and Leadership: These are key criteria for Scholar Programs.
Life as an Emory Scholar
Being an Emory Scholar is more than a title — it’s a four-year journey of leadership, challenge, growth, and contribution. Scholars are known across campus not just for their achievements, but for their initiative in shaping the community.
Whether it’s launching a social justice initiative, conducting cancer research, leading student government, or mentoring younger students, Emory Scholars are consistently engaged, empowered, and supported.
They also benefit from a lifelong global network of fellow scholars, alumni, faculty, and mentors who help them succeed far beyond graduation.
Conclusion: A Launchpad to the Future
The Emory University Scholar Programs represent a rare opportunity for exceptional students to pursue a world-class education, develop leadership skills, and make a meaningful impact — all while supported by generous merit-based scholarships.
If you are a student who values challenge, collaboration, and the power of learning, these programs are your launchpad. They are not just about reducing the cost of college they’re about expanding your future.
Take the first step toward becoming an Emory Scholar. Prepare your best application. Lead with purpose. Learn with passion. And be ready to join a legacy of changemakers at one of America’s finest universities.
For more information, visit the Official Website
