One of the best scholarship programs available through a Texas university is the Eugene McDermott Scholars program. The program started in 2000 to honor the co-founder of Texas Instruments. The Eugene McDermott Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship to attend the University of Texas at Dallas. In addition, it provides money for overseas travel and cultural events. It's a highly competitive program that attracts students who graduate at the top of their class.
Each year, the McDermott program accepts about twelve (12) students. As a McDermott Scholar, students will have opportunities for internships, research, travel and study abroad. Some of the countries where students have spent a semester, include Japan, Austria, Switzerland, Russia, Italy and Australia.
The diverse group of students who join the program have strong strong academics, community engagement and leadership. Students receive comprehensive support from faculty and staff.
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Minimum Scholarship Requirements
SAT score: 1490 or higher (new-style two-part SAT for Verbal and Math) OR ACT score: 34 or higher OR National Merit Semifinalist Most of the students who are successful applicants have an established record of leadership and is in the top 5% of their class. Students are also expected to demonstrate the ability to interact well with peers and adults.
Amount of Scholarship Award
The Eugene McDermott Scholars award is one of the most generous around and includes the following:
- Full tuition and fees
- Living and text book stipends
- $12,000 fund for scholar-designed study abroad
- $3,000 fund for individualized professional development
- Travel expenses for cohort trips to Santa Fe, Austin, and Washington, DC
- Tickets to the Dallas Symphony, Dallas Opera, Texas Ballet Theater, Dallas Theater Center, and other cultural events
- Travel home twice yearly for domestic students, and once yearly for international students
Deadline to apply
The deadline is usually in December each year. For more up-to-date scholarship information, please visit UT Dallas McDermott Scholars.
