Selection: Process & Criteria

Selection of Finalists

The Selection Committee will choose approximately 40 National Scholars Finalists from among those students who have been accepted to both Clemson University and the Calhoun Honors College. The selection of the National Scholars Finalists is based on materials submitted through the Calhoun Honors College application, although the committee may refer to the undergraduate application for supplementary information.

The National Scholars Finalists are notified of their selection in January 2008 and are invited to compete during National Scholars Weekend in February 2008.

Selection of the National Scholars

The final selection of the National Scholars is based on the Clemson University admissions application, and the Calhoun Honors College application, and on interviews and seminars that take place during National Scholars Weekend. FINALISTS MUST ATTEND NATIONAL SCHOLARS WEEKEND TO BE CONSIDERED FOR ACCEPTANCE TO THE NATIONAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM.

Invitations to join the National Scholars Program are sent within two weeks of National Scholars Weekend. In recent years 14 to 19 students have been selected as National Scholars.

Selection Criteria

>>> a documented record of academic excellence, as reflected in SAT or ACT scores and the high school transcript;

>>> a documented record of intellectual curiosity and engagement;

>>> a detailed record of the depth and significance of his or her most meaningful extra- and co-curricular activities, including leadership, service, and research experiences;

>>> well-written and thoughtful responses to the questions presented in the Calhoun Honors College application;

>>> outstanding and detailed letters of recommendation.