Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this scholarship being offered?
The University of Rochester/Urban League Scholarship is a tangible example of the University's commitment to provide educational opportunities to talented youth who, for a variety of reasons, may have previously been discouraged from attending a leading university. The Scholarship began locally with the Rochester Urban League Black Scholars Program in 1983 and has been offered nationally since 1984.
What is the value of the scholarship?
The University of Rochester/Urban League Scholarship is valued at $10,000 per year (totaling $40,000 over four years). The scholarship amount may be increased and/or combined with other forms of financial assistance to cover the recipient’s total cost of attendance. To determine financial need, students must complete both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov, and the College Scholarship Service (CSS) PROFILE, available online at www.collegeboard.com, indicating the University of Rochester as one of their college choices. These forms can also be obtained from high school guidance offices or by calling the University’s Office of Student Financial Assistance at (585) 275-3226 or toll free at (800) 881-8234. They must be completed and filed by February 1.
How many Urban League Scholarships does the University of Rochester award? Scholarships will be granted to all qualified students. Since the program’s inception in 1983, more than 500 Scholarships have been awarded.
How many students can be nominated?
Each Urban League affiliate may nominate as many qualified students as they wish. An interview is also a required part of the nomination process. This interview should be conducted by an Urban League affiliate. If this is not possible, please contact the Office of Admissions. We will coordinate an on-campus or phone interview.
How do we nominate students?
You must complete an Urban League Scholarship Nomination Form for each student you wish to nominate and submit it to the University of Rochester’s Office of Admissions no later than January 31 to ensure full consideration. We regret that we are unable to grant extensions. A copy of the nomination form is enclosed in this folder.
What kind of student is the University of Rochester looking for?
Successful scholarship recipients generally have a score of 1100 or better on the SAT Reasoning Test, or a composite score of 25 or better on the ACT exam. Additionally, students should have at least a 3.0 G.P.A. in a rigorous college preparatory high school program. The University of Rochester is an energetic, student-centered, diverse, and competitive community. We look for students who will complement our campus environment and bring with them a variety of academic and extracurricular experiences. We consider the “whole student,” including academic performance and potential, an admission interview, essays, recommendations, and life experiences.
When will students be notified of their selection?
Scholarship recipients will be notified of their selection as Urban League Scholars soon after they receive their admission decision. The Office of Admissions will begin mailing decision letters in March. Students applying for additional financial assistance will be notified of their Scholarship when they receive their financial aid award notice. The Scholarship will be included in their financial aid award, provided that all appropriate forms have been filed on time.
Are transfer students eligible for nomination?
No. This scholarship is awarded to new freshmen only. Transfer applicants should contact the Office of Admissions at (585) 275-3221 or toll free at (888) 822-2256 to obtain information regarding special scholarship opportunities for transfer applicants.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Michelle Thompson-Taylor
Urban League Scholarship Coordinator / Community Relations Manager
University of Rochester, Office of Admissions
P.O. Box 270251
Rochester, New York 14627-0251
Telephone: (585) 275-3221 or (888) 822-2256 (toll free)
Fax: (585) 461-4595
E-mail: undergradscholarships@admissions.rochester.edu
