Robertson Scholarship

What Is the Robertson Scholarship?

The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program is a prestigious, merit-based scholarship that provides students with a fully funded undergraduate experience at Duke University or the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill). 

This program is designed to cultivate young leaders by offering financial support, mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities.

Amount of Financial Aid Awarded

The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program is a full-ride scholarship covering:

• Full tuition, mandatory fees, and room & board at either Duke or UNC-Chapel Hill
• Funding for three summer enrichment experiences, including community engagement, leadership training, and international exploration
• A semester-long campus switch, allowing scholars to take classes at both Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill
• Exclusive leadership training, mentorship, and networking opportunities

Who Is Eligible for the Robertson Scholarship?

The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program seeks high school seniors who exhibit exceptional leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to service. 

More than just strong students, successful applicants are individuals who take initiative, demonstrate integrity, and strive to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Key Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the program, applicants must:

• Be current high school seniors
• Apply to Duke University or UNC-Chapel Hill as first-year students
• Demonstrate leadership skills and a track record of initiative
• Show academic excellence and a drive for learning
• Exhibit a strong sense of character and integrity
• Have a commitment to service and community engagement

Financial Need & Community Involvement

While the program is not need-based, the selection committee values candidates who have overcome challenges and made a positive difference in their schools or communities.

Academic & Standardized Test Expectations

There is no strict GPA or test score requirement, but applicants should have a strong academic record that reflects intellectual curiosity and the ability to thrive in a rigorous university environment.

Robertson Scholars are chosen for their potential to lead and innovate, not just for grades or test scores. Applicants who actively seek opportunities to create change—whether through service, advocacy, or entrepreneurship—are well-suited for this program.

Robertson Scholarship Requirements

Applying to the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program requires students to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to service. 

The application process evaluates both intellectual curiosity and leadership impact through written responses, recommendations, and interviews.

Necessary Documents for the Application

Applicants must submit the following:

• Completed Online Application: Available on the Robertson Scholars website during the application period.
• Official High School Transcript: Demonstrating a strong academic record.
• Essays & Short Answer Responses: Designed to assess leadership experiences, personal values, and aspirations.
• Two Letters of Recommendation: One from a teacher and another from a mentor, coach, or community leader who can speak to the applicant’s leadership and personal qualities.
• SAT or ACT Scores (Optional): Standardized test scores are not required but may be submitted if available.

Details on Essays, Letters of Recommendation, and Transcripts

The application includes multiple essay prompts and short-answer questions, allowing students to highlight their leadership philosophy, problem-solving skills, and impact-driven initiatives. 

Responses should be authentic, well-structured, and demonstrate a clear commitment to leadership and service.

• Essays should illustrate personal growth, innovation, and how the applicant has made a meaningful difference.
• Letters of recommendation should highlight leadership abilities, character, and potential for creating change.
• High school transcripts should demonstrate strong academic performance and a rigorous course load.

How to Apply for the Robertson Scholarship

The Robertson Scholarship application is a multi-step process designed to identify students with exceptional leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to service.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Application Process

Step 1: Access the Online Application

• Visit the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program website to start your application.
• Ensure you select the correct application portal based on whether you are applying to Duke University, UNC-Chapel Hill, or both.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

• Provide personal information, academic history, and extracurricular activities.
• Respond to essay prompts and short-answer questions, focusing on leadership experiences, problem-solving skills, and personal values.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

• Official high school transcript
• Two letters of recommendation
• Standardized test scores (optional)

Step 4: Submit the Application Before the Deadline

• Applications are due in November each year, though exact dates vary.
• Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.

Step 5: Participate in Interviews (If Selected as a Finalist)

• Semi-finalists may be invited to participate in an interview round to further assess leadership potential.
• Finalists will be invited to Finalist Weekend, where they engage in group activities, discussions, and individual interviews.

Step 6: Scholarship Recipients Announced

• Final selections are made in March, and recipients are notified directly.

How to Submit Required Materials

All documents must be uploaded through the online application portal before the deadline.

Letters of recommendation should be submitted directly by the recommenders via the online system.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

• Missing the Deadline: The Robertson Scholars program is highly competitive, and late applications are not accepted.
• Weak Essay Responses: Essays should be well-structured, thoughtful, and showcase a clear leadership vision.
• Failing to Request Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who can provide detailed, personal insights into your leadership potential.
• Submitting an Incomplete Application: Double-check that all required documents have been uploaded before submitting.

Robertson Scholarship Deadline & Important Dates

The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program follows a structured timeline, with applications opening in the summer and closing in the fall. 

Below is an overview of key dates for the 2024–2025 application cycle.

Current Application Deadlines (2024-2025 Cycle)

• Application Opens: August 15, 2024
• Application Deadline: November 15, 2024 (Closed)
• Finalist Interviews: March 9 – March 11, 2025
• Connection Weekend: April 2 – April 5, 2025

Important Note: The official 2025–2026 application cycle dates will be announced later in 2025. Applicants should check the Robertson Scholarship website for updates.

Key Timeline for Students to Follow

• Summer–Early Fall (August–October 2024)
  • Start preparing application materials, including essays and letters of recommendation.
  • Research the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program and ensure eligibility.
  • Reach out to recommenders early to secure strong letters of recommendation.
• Fall (November 2024)
  • November 15: Final application deadline—submit all materials before this date.
  • Double-check that transcripts and recommendation letters have been submitted.
• Winter (January–February 2025)
  • Semi-finalists are selected and invited for interviews.
  • Finalists receive notification in February.
• Spring (March–April 2025)
  • Finalist interviews and Finalist Weekend take place—finalists participate in activities and final interviews.
  • Scholarship recipients announced.
• Mid-2025
  • The 2025–2026 application cycle dates will be released. Students interested in applying should start preparing early.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning

The Robertson Scholars Leadership Program is highly competitive, seeking students with strong leadership potential, academic excellence, and a demonstrated commitment to service. 

What Scholarship Judges Look for in an Applicant

• Leadership Experience: Applicants should showcase their ability to lead in school, extracurriculars, or community initiatives.
• Commitment to Service: A track record of meaningful community engagement is essential.
• Academic Excellence: While there’s no strict GPA requirement, successful applicants demonstrate strong academic performance.
• Curiosity & Initiative: Judges favor applicants who take the initiative to create change and seek out new learning opportunities.

How to Write a Standout Essay

• Tell Your Leadership Story: Highlight experiences where you made a real impact. Be specific about the challenges you faced, actions you took, and results you achieved.
• Showcase Your Values: The Robertson program values integrity, collaboration, and a desire to make a difference.
• Be Authentic: Share personal experiences that demonstrate your unique perspective and aspirations.

The Role of Community Service & Leadership

• Volunteer work, activism, or mentorship can set you apart.
• Leading a project or organization in your community or school demonstrates initiative.
• Robertson Scholars are expected to be changemakers—emphasize how you’ve created a meaningful impact.

How to Get Strong Letters of Recommendation

• Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your leadership, character, and academic abilities.
• Provide them with key talking points about your achievements and aspirations to help craft a compelling letter.
• Request letters well in advance to ensure quality recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Robertson Scholarship

How competitive is the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program?

The Robertson Scholarship acceptance rate is highly selective, with only a small number of students chosen each year based on leadership potential, academic excellence, and community impact.

Can I apply if I’m already in college?

No, the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program is only open to high school seniors applying for first-year undergraduate admission at Duke University or the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

How will I receive the scholarship money?

The scholarship covers full tuition, room and board, and additional benefits such as leadership development opportunities, funding for summer experiences, and mentorship. Funds are distributed directly to the recipient’s university.

What makes a strong Robertson Scholars application?

Successful applicants showcase leadership, intellectual curiosity, community impact, and a commitment to service. The selection committee looks for students who will thrive in a collaborative learning environment and contribute meaningfully to both university campuses.