Scholar Opportunities

Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars demonstrate a strong commitment to academic excellence and hard work, both in high school and beyond. In recognition of your dedication, the State of Indiana provides scholarships and support services to help you complete your public college education.

However, if you’re a qualifying 21st Century Scholar who desires a private university experience, Marian University can help bridge the gap between the state’s public funding and the costs of attending a private institution.

Each year, Marian University offers up to seventy-five 21st Century Scholars the opportunity to cover the full cost of tuition through a combination of grants, scholarships, and institutional aid. If selected, Marian University will cover the difference between your public and private college tuition costs.

Application Process and Deadlines

To be considered for the 21st Century Scholar Opportunity, you must:

1. Have an offer of admission from Marian University.
2. Complete the Marian University 21st Century Scholar Opportunity application.

• Application Opens: August 1, 2024
• Admission Deadline: Complete and submit your admission application and be admitted to Marian University by November 15, 2024.
• Scholar Opportunity Application Deadline: Submit the Marian University 21st Century Scholar Opportunity application by November 15, 2024.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you will be invited to participate in a personal interview with the Director of the 21st Century Scholars Program and scholarship committee members.

Funded through a combination of federal, state, and institutional financial aid, this 21st Century Scholar Opportunity is renewable for up to four years, provided you maintain good academic and social standing at Marian University.

Why Choose Marian University as a 21st Century Scholar?

At Marian University, we offer a personalized and supportive environment for 21st Century Scholars. Our award-winning Office of 21st Century Scholars is dedicated to guiding you throughout your academic journey. With one-on-one success coaching, tutoring, career development opportunities, and both on- and off-campus social programming, you’ll receive the support you need to succeed.

• Scholar Lounge: Relax in our dedicated space, featuring comfortable seating, study areas, a food pantry, a refrigerator, and a microwave for your convenience.
• Comprehensive Services: Enjoy individualized support from full-time staff, access to tutoring, career resources, and engagement in social and cultural activities that enrich your experience.

Choose Marian University to continue your 21st Century Scholar journey in a welcoming, close-knit campus community grounded in Franciscan values. We’re here to help you achieve your goals and thrive both academically and socially.

Learn More About Marian's 21st Century Scholar Opportunity

For More Information, Contact:

• Kalyn Rudow, Executive Director of 21st Century Scholars
  • Email: krudow@marian.edu
  • Phone: 317.955.6330
• Franchessca Cardenas, ScholarCorps Staff
  • Email: fcardenas@marian.edu
• Adriana I. Triebold, 21st Century Scholar Success Coach, Multicultural Focus
  • Email: atriebold@marian.edu
  • Phone: 317.955.6258
• Scholar's phone: 317.874.7392

At Marian University, we offer the Saint Mary's Academic Scholarship, inspired by our namesake, which is awarded to students who demonstrate a passion for education, community, and faith. 

The Saint Mary's Scholar Opportunity supports incoming freshman students as they navigate their undergraduate education. In addition to financial support, students selected for this opportunity could participate in co-curricular programming. These experiences are designed to help students become distinctive and competitive applicants for postgraduate employment.

Application Process

To apply for the Saint Mary's Scholar Opportunity, students will receive a special invitation to complete and compete for the scholarship. Successful applicants will demonstrate academic potential and intellectual curiosity, as evidenced by meeting the program's GPA requirements.

• Application Deadlines: Admission to Marian University by November 1 of your senior year in high school. Complete the Saint Mary's Scholar application by November 15.
• Application Requirements: The application includes short essay questions evaluating your interest and commitment. You will also provide a recommendation from an educator, guidance counselor, or a professional who is familiar with your strengths and potential.

Once your application is reviewed, you will be notified about the next steps in the process. If selected, you will receive more information about student orientation and preparing for your first year at Marian University.

For More Information, Contact:

• Patrick Kelly
  • Email: pkelly@marian.edu

The Marian University Department of Athletes prides itself on the academic success of our student-athletes and the performance of our varsity sports teams.

• The amount of athletic scholarships at Marian University varies, ranging from partial to full tuition.
• Our athletic awards are competitive. Students selected for athletic scholarships are evaluated based on their athletic abilities and their potential to make a positive team contribution. Personal interviews with team coaches are required.
• Athletic awards are available for every varsity sport.
• For a complete listing of our athletic teams, please explore muknights.com. You'll find videos, photos, and the latest news, including team schedules, rosters, and contact information for our coaching staff.
• You can also review information about our recruiting policies and practices. All athletic scholarships are subject to Marian University, NAIA, USBC, USA Cycling, Crossroads League, and Mid-States Football Association guidelines for academic eligibility and recruiting.

Learn More About Marian's Atheltic Award

For More Information, Contact:

• Financial Aid Office
  • Email: finaid@marian.edu
  • Phone: (317) 955-6040
  • Address: Marian Hall, Room 119

At Marian University, we are committed to supporting the educational journey of those called to serve in ministry. The Bishop Simon Bruté Seminary Scholarship provides financial assistance to seminarians admitted to Marian University. This scholarship, in combination with other financial aid resources, is designed to support seminarians in their academic and vocational formation.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Bishop Simon Bruté Seminary Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be admitted to Marian University as a seminarian.
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid.
• Be a full-time student enrolled in a traditional undergraduate program at Marian University.
• Be a student of the Bishop Brute Seminary and comply with any additional requirements set by the seminary.

Awarding

Once the eligibility criteria are met, the Bishop Simon Bruté Seminary Scholarship will be included in your financial aid package. The Bishop Brute Seminary will communicate to the Office of Financial Aid with the names of the new seminarians when that information is available. The scholarship amount will depend on your academic scholarship status, and it will be determined in one of the following ways:

• For Seminarians with an Academic Scholarship: In addition to the student's academic scholarship, his Bishop Brute scholarship will be equal to 10% of the current year's tuition charge.
• For Seminarians without an Academic Scholarship: If the student did not receive an academic scholarship, he will receive one-third of the current year's tuition charge in a Bishop Brute Seminary Scholarship.

Note: The Bishop Simon Bruté Seminary Scholarship amount may be affected by your eligibility for state or federal grants, particularly if the total amount of state and/or federal aid exceeds the full cost of tuition.

Renewal

The Bishop Simon Bruté Seminary Scholarship is renewable each year as long as:

• You remain enrolled as a full-time seminarian at Marian University and continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
• You maintain good academic and social standing at Marian University.

At Marian University, we are proud to support seminarians by making higher education accessible and aligned with our shared Catholic mission.

Learn More About Marian's Bishop Simon Bruté Seminary Scholarship

For More Information, Contact:

• Mary Nguyen, Administrative Coordinator 
  • Email: mnguyen@archindy.org

At Marian University, as part of our mission as a Catholic institution, we are committed to educating students who aim to transform lives, society, and the world. The Diocesan Employee Family Guarantee provides a valuable opportunity for spouses and dependent children of full-time employees of Catholic dioceses, parish schools, and agencies. This guarantee ensures that one-half of the tuition cost each year will be covered through a combination of institutional scholarships and aid.

This opportunity is available annually and is renewable for qualifying students, their spouses, or dependent children.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Diocesan Employee Family Guarantee, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a dependent child or spouse of a full-time employee (non-volunteer) of a Catholic diocese, including parish schools and agencies.
• Complete the Marian University application process and be admitted to the university in good standing.
• Enroll in a traditional undergraduate program and pursue your first bachelor's degree.
• Commit to an educational experience aligned with Marian University’s Franciscan values of dignity, peace, justice, reconciliation, and responsible stewardship.
• Complete the Diocesan Employee Family Guarantee application. 

Awarding

Once the above eligibility criteria are met, the Diocesan Employee Family Guarantee will be included in your financial aid package. The amount listed on your financial aid offer letter will depend on your eligibility for other scholar opportunities. The total of the Diocesan Family Guarantee combined with any other institutional aid will not exceed one-half of your total tuition costs.

Renewal

The Diocesan Family Guarantee is renewable each year as long as:

• The qualifying employee remains a full-time employee with an eligible Catholic organization (The Diocesan Employee Family Guarantee application must be completed annually).
• You maintain good academic and social standing at Marian University.

At Marian University, we are proud to support families who serve Catholic dioceses, schools, and agencies by making higher education more accessible and aligned with our shared values.

Learn More About Marian's Diocesan Family Guarantee

For More Information, Contact:

• The Office of Financial Aid
  • Email: finaid@marian.edu
  • Phone: (317) 955-6040

The Lugar Fellow Global Studies Scholar Opportunity provides a $2,000 annual award, renewable each year, for students pursuing a minor in global studies at Marian University.

As a Lugar Fellow, students are eligible for an exclusive, one-week spring break program in Washington, D.C. during their junior or senior years. This immersive experience includes meeting with Indiana senators and congressmen, visiting foreign embassies and the headquarters of major international organizations, touring museums and centers of power in Washington, and engaging with current and former government officials, as well as international experts.

Eligibility

To be considered for the Lugar Fellow Global Studies Scholar Opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Incoming Freshmen:
  • Admission to Marian University by November 1
  • Have a minimum high school GPA of 3.75.
• Transfer Students:
  • Have a minimum college GPA of 3.00.
• Strong potential for leadership and academic success.
• Interest in global issues, foreign language study, and study abroad opportunities.
• Commitment to an educational experience guided by Marian University’s Franciscan values of dignity, peace, justice, reconciliation, and responsible stewardship.

Application Process

To apply for the Lugar Fellow Global Studies Scholar Opportunity, you must complete the Lugar Fellow Global Studies Scholar Application by November 15.

• Award notifications will begin in mid-December.

Renewal and Requirements

The Lugar Fellow Global Studies Scholar Opportunity is renewable for up to seven semesters, provided the student:

• Maintains a minimum college GPA of 3.00.
• Continues to pursue the global studies minor.
• Actively participates in global studies co-curricular activities, including but not limited to:
  • Assisting with Marian University’s Global Studies Speaker Series and other public events.
  • Engaging with the community through relevant outreach and initiatives.

This scholar opportunity is an excellent way to enhance your academic experience while immersing yourself in the global landscape. At Marian University, we are committed to fostering the next generation of leaders with a global perspective.

Learn More About Marian's Lugar Fellow Global Studies Scholar Opportunity

For More Information, Contact:

• Zane Elward
  • Email: zelward@marian.edu
  • Phone: (317) 955-6703
  • Address: Marian Hall, Room 307A

The Robert Noyce Teacher Scholar Opportunity is funded by a generous $1.1 million grant from the National Science Foundation. This initiative is designed to support the growing need for undergraduate students pursuing careers in STEM education and to help prepare them to become highly effective secondary educators in high-need schools.

Overview

The Robert Noyce Teacher Scholar Opportunity is available to Marian University juniors and seniors. The goal of this program is to help diversify the teacher workforce, specifically addressing the shortage of teachers in secondary mathematics and science disciplines. This shortage impacts educational opportunities in high-need schools across Indiana. Through the Noyce program, Marian University seeks to prepare undergraduates majoring in biology, chemistry, and mathematics to become secondary education teachers in high-need schools.

Benefits

Recipients of the Noyce Teacher Scholar Opportunity can receive up to $15,000 per year for two years while completing their degree at Marian University.

Eligibility and Application

This opportunity is intended for students who are committed to pursuing a teaching career in secondary education, particularly in mathematics or science. Applicants must meet specific academic and professional criteria to qualify. For more details on eligibility and application procedures, please contact the program coordinator.

By participating in this program, you will gain valuable support and resources while helping to address critical teacher shortages and expand educational access for students in high-need communities.

Learn More About Marian's Robert Noyce Teacher Scholar Opportunity

For More Information, Contact:

• Matthew Hollowell, Assistant Professor of Education, Klipsch Educators College
  • Email: mhollowell@marian.edu
  • Phone: (317) 955-6218
  • Address: Oldenburg Hall

At Marian University, we offer the Saint Ives Pre-Law Program, inspired by Saint Ives, the patron saint of lawyers. This program is dedicated to preparing students who aspire to pursue a career in law.

The Saint Ives Pre-Law Scholar Opportunity supports incoming freshman students as they navigate their undergraduate education. In addition to financial support, students selected for this opportunity will participate in co-curricular programming, such as seminars, clerkships, internships, and workshops. These experiences are designed to help students become distinctive and competitive applicants for law programs nationwide.

Develop Your Legal Career

As a Saint Ives Scholar, Marian University will guide you in shaping your future as a legal professional. Both inside and outside the classroom, you will have opportunities for growth and development in the Franciscan tradition. These experiences will support your successful application to law schools:

• Rigorous Coursework: While you may choose any major, popular pre-law majors include History, Global Studies, English, Philosophy, and Business. We will work with you to ensure your coursework meets the requirements of law school admissions.
• Seminar Series: Engage in seminars that explore various careers in law, with guidance on timelines and preparing for professional school applications.
• LSAT Preparation: Gain access to embedded study materials to help you prepare for the LSAT.
• Shadowing and Internships: Participate in shadowing or receive academic credit for completing internships that provide real-world legal experience.
• Self-Evaluation: Complete a portfolio and regular self-evaluations to track your progress and goals in the program.

Application Process

To apply for the Saint Ives Pre-Law Scholar Opportunity, students must be committed to pursuing a career in law. Successful applicants will demonstrate academic potential and intellectual curiosity, as evidenced by meeting the program's GPA requirements.

• Application Deadlines: Admission to Marian University by November 1 of your senior year in high school. Complete the Saint Ives Pre-Law Scholar application by November 15.
• Application Requirements: The application includes two short essay questions evaluating your interest and commitment to a legal career. You will also need to provide a letter of recommendation from an educator, guidance counselor, or a professional who is familiar with your strengths and potential.

Once your application is reviewed, you will be notified about the next steps in the process. If selected, you will receive more information about student orientation and preparing for your first year at Marian University.

For More Information, Contact:

• Melissa Buehler
  • Email: mbuehler@marian.edu
  • Address: Marian Hall, Room 307B

At Marian University, we offer the Saint Luke Pre-Medicine Pathways Program, which is inspired by the patron saint of doctors and surgeons. This program aims to prepare students who are passionate about pursuing a career in medicine, with an emphasis on service, compassion, and holistic care. Rooted in the Franciscan tradition, the program trains students to be healthcare professionals who embody Christ's compassion for those who suffer, as highlighted in the third Gospel.

This competitive Saint Luke Pre-Medicine Pathways Scholar Opportunity supports incoming freshman students by providing financial support along with access to co-curricular programming. These include shadowing, internships, and workshops, all designed to make students distinctive and highly qualified applicants to medical programs nationwide.

Scholar Opportunity Overview

As a Saint Luke Scholar, you will receive the resources and mentorship needed to develop into a future healthcare provider. Throughout your undergraduate years, you will benefit from opportunities both in and outside the classroom that will help you grow as an individual committed to Franciscan values and the healthcare profession.

Key components of the Saint Luke Pre-Medicine Pathways Program include:

• Rigorous Coursework: While you can choose any major, we recommend selecting one focused on STEM courses. You will also be guided to complete all necessary prerequisite coursework for medical programs. In alignment with Marian University’s liberal arts tradition, you will complete a minor in the humanities, global studies, or an approved field.
• Seminar Series: Participate in seminars focused on health professions, career pathways, and guidance for professional school applications.
• Mentoring: Gain increased access to Marian’s College of Osteopathic Medicine and join a community of pre-med and medical school scholars.
• Paid Research Opportunities: Engage in independent research with Marian’s skilled faculty, including those in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, or the College of Osteopathic Medicine.
• Shadowing and Internships: Participate in shadowing opportunities or earn academic credit through internships in dynamic healthcare environments.
• Self-Evaluation: Complete a portfolio and periodic self-evaluations to track your progress through the program.

Pathways

The Saint Luke Pre-Medicine Pathways Program offers three competitive tracks:

1. Direct Admit Osteopathic Scholars: This prestigious track provides guaranteed admission into the Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine after completing the undergraduate degree at Marian University. Students must meet the program’s requirements, including a minimum high school GPA of 3.75 on a 4.0 scale.
2. Master's Scholars: This pathway includes a 5-year program where students complete a Bachelor's degree in a STEM field, followed by a Master's degree in Biomedical Science (BMS) with research. Students completing this track are exempt from the MCAT for admission to the Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Requires a minimum high school GPA of 3.75.
3. Health Professions Scholars: Students who complete this pathway will be guaranteed an interview at the Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine and receive an earlier decision on their application. No minimum GPA is required.

Application Process

To apply for the Saint Luke Pre-Medicine Pathways Scholar Opportunity, students should be committed to a career in healthcare. Strong academic performance and a demonstrated passion for the health professions are essential.

• Deadline for Admission: Apply for admission to Marian University by November 15 of your senior year in high school.
• Scholarship Application: Complete the Saint Luke Pre-Medicine Scholarship Application by December 1. This application includes two short essay questions about your interest and commitment to a career in healthcare.
• Letter of Recommendation: Submit contact information for a letter of recommendation from an educator, guidance counselor, or a professional familiar with your interests and strengths.

Once your application is reviewed, you will be notified of the next steps in the process, including details about student orientation and preparations for fall classes.

Renewal and Requirements

The Saint Luke Pre-Medicine Pathways Scholar Opportunity is renewable as long as you meet the following criteria:

• Maintain the program’s academic requirements.
• Continue on the selected pathway track.
• Engage in co-curricular activities related to the healthcare field.

This Saint Luke Pre-Medicine Pathways Scholar Opportunity provides the resources and mentorship needed to help you succeed in a career that impacts lives and communities through compassion and service in the healthcare profession.

Learn More About Marian's Saint Luke Pre-Medicine Pathways Scholar Opportunity

For More Information, Contact:

• Trisha Staab
  • Email: tstaab@marian.edu
  • Phone: (317) 955-6544

Learn More About Marian's San Damiano Scholars

The Speech & Debate Team Scholar Opportunity is an annually renewable award designed for students who compete on Marian University’s speech team. This opportunity provides $2,000 in funding to incoming students who demonstrate strong potential in the areas of speech, debate, and related activities. If a student is eligible for multiple talent-based awards, the amount may vary.

Eligibility

To be considered for the Speech & Debate Team Scholar Opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be admitted to Marian University in good standing.
• Exhibit strong potential for academic success.
• Have prior experience in speech, debate, or related activities.
• Commit to an educational experience guided by Marian University's Franciscan values, including dignity of the individual, peace and justice, reconciliation, and responsible stewardship.

Application Process

• Complete the Marian University admissions process and be admitted to Marian University before applying for the Speech & Debate Team Scholar Opportunity.
• Submit the Speech Team Scholar Application before receiving your financial aid package from Marian University.
• Schedule an interview with Dr. George LaMaster as part of the selection process.

For more information, contact:

• Drew Stewart, Director of Speech & Debate at dstewart@marian.edu
• Dr. Michael Baumann, Assistant Director of Speech & Debate

This award provides a valuable opportunity for those passionate about speech and debate, supporting both academic and extracurricular success in a vibrant, Franciscan-based community.

Learn More About Marian's Speech & Debate Team Scholar Opportunity

For More Information, Contact:

• Christopher J. Jackson 
  • Email: cjackson1@marian.edu 
  • Phone: 317.955.6112

The Fine Arts Talent Opportunity for Instrumental Performance is available to students with exceptional instrumental abilities who commit to being active participants in the Marian University Marching Band or Color Guard. This opportunity is awarded based on the applicant's demonstrated talent and the current needs of the instrumental program for the season.

Eligibility

To qualify for the Fine Arts Talent Opportunity for Instrumental Performance, applicants must:

• Be admitted to Marian University in good standing.
• Participate in a live audition on campus.
• Demonstrate outstanding ability and commitment during the audition.
• Commit to an educational experience aligned with Marian University’s Franciscan values of dignity of the individual, peace and justice, reconciliation, and responsible stewardship.

Application Process

• Complete the Marian University admissions process and be admitted to the university.
• Schedule and attend a live audition. For more information, contact Beverly Day at bday@marian.edu or call (317) 955-6176.

Selection

• Award recipients will be notified of their status in writing.

Renewal

This Fine Arts Talent Opportunity is renewable each year for as long as recipients maintain full-time enrollment and fulfill the requirements set out in the Marian University Student Handbook for the Department of Music.

Learn More About Marian's Fine Arts Talent Opportunity for Instrumental Performances

For More Information, Contact:

• Beverly Day, Administrative Assistant at Marian University
  • Email: bday@marian.edu
  • Phone: (317) 955-6176

This opportunity allows talented instrumental performers to enhance their academic experience through participation in Marian University’s dynamic music programs, guided by the university's Franciscan principles.

The Talent Opportunity for Theatre Arts is available to students who demonstrate exceptional abilities in theatre and commit to being active participants in the Marian University Theatre program. This opportunity is based on the recipient's level of commitment and the available positions within the Theatre program for the current season. The award is renewable each year.

Application Process

• Apply online or learn more about the Theatre Arts opportunity through the Marian University website.

Learn More About Marian's Talent Opportunity for Theatre Arts

For More Information, Contact:

• Kristopher Steege, Director of Theatre
  • Email: kdsteege@marian.edu
  • Phone: (317) 955-6389

This Talent Opportunity for Theatre Arts offers students the chance to grow and develop their skills while actively contributing to the vibrant theatre community at Marian University.

The Talent Opportunity for Vocal Performance is available to accepted students who demonstrate outstanding vocal abilities and commit to being active participants in the Marian University Show Choir. This opportunity is based on the level of the recipient's commitment and the openings within the choir for the current season.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Talent Opportunity for Vocal Performance, you must:

• Complete the Marian University admissions application and be admitted in good standing.
• Perform vocally during a live audition on campus.
• Demonstrate exceptional vocal ability, talent, and commitment through the audition process.
• Commit to an educational experience framed within Marian University's Franciscan values of dignity, peace, justice, reconciliation, and responsible stewardship.

Application Process

• Complete the Marian University admissions process.
• Schedule and complete a live audition. Contact Beverly Day at bday@marian.edu or (317) 955-6176 for more information.

Selection

If selected for this opportunity, you will be notified in writing.

Renewal

The Talent Opportunity for Vocal Performance is renewable annually, provided you maintain full-time enrollment status and fulfill all requirements outlined in Marian University's Vocal Performance Participation Agreement.

Learn More About Marian's Talent Opportunity for Vocal Performances

For More Information, Contact:

• Beverly Day, Administrative Assistant Marian University
  • Email: bday@marian.edu
  • Phone: (317) 955-6176
  • Address: 3200 Cold Spring Road, Indianapolis, IN 46222

This Talent Opportunity for Vocal Performance provides students with the chance to contribute to the Marian University Show Choir while growing as vocal performers within a vibrant, supportive community.