FAQ
Q: How can I contact the Leadership Scholar Program?
Either fill out the form on the Contact Page or call (760) 429-4124
Q: When are applications due?
Each university/college stipulates its own deadlines. Please check on the specific university/college link.
Q: Where should I send my application package?
We prefer that applicants email their submission materials to us. An email will be provided once an application is submitted.
By Mail:
Leadership Scholar Program
Marine and Family Programs Division (MFR)
3820 Russell Road
Quantico, Virginia 22134
ATTN: Rhonda Normandin
Q: What are the eligibility requirements?
You must be an active duty or reserve Marine who is planning to attend a school as a freshman or transfer student. If you are an active duty Marine, you must be honorably discharging before the beginning of the school semester. You must also be a High School graduate. High School equivalencies, such as the GED, will be considered only if the applicant has significant college credits. You must have a recommendation from a commanding officer or someone for whom you have worked, and an acceptable test score on your AFQT and GT, SAT or ACT. Please check on the university/college link for minimum test scores.
Q: Can I get a waiver to the requirements?
Waivers to the requirements will be granted on occasion. Marines should refer to Marine Corps Order (MCO) 1700.32 for more information.
Q: If my AFQT and GT scores are below the recommended guideline, can I use my SAT or ACT score instead?
To participate in the Leadership Scholar Program, you must meet the AFQT and GT minimum scores. If they require them, most universities/colleges permit you to use either your SAT or ACT score to fulfill that section.
Q: I have some obligation left on my active duty contract, can I still apply?
If you are active duty, you can still apply as long as you will be honorably discharging by the start of the semester for which you are applying. If you’re active duty obligation goes beyond the beginning of that semester you should wait to apply until the next application cycle.
Q: Can Reserve Marines apply?
Yes, Reserve Marines are encouraged to apply.
Q: I already have a bachelor’s degree and/or am pursuing a graduate degree. Can I apply?
If you already have a bachelor’s degree or are pursuing a graduate degree, you will not be eligible.
Q: How many applicants will be accepted through the Leadership Scholar Program?
Each university/college dictates the number of applicants it will review and ranges from two to unlimited.
Q: What aspects are considered during the application review process?
Applicants will be reviewed based on their potential for successful completion of college.
If requested by the LSP, the commander’s endorsement for the Leadership Scholar Program application will be similar in structure to the endorsement required in a Marine Corps fitness report. In this case, the commander’s endorsement will detail the Marine’s demonstrated performance and potential for growth and/or successful completion of a college degree program.
Q: Who will be reviewing my application?
A board will be convened to screen each applicant to evaluate the applicant’s potential.
Q: What will I need to do once I have found out I’ve been accepted?
You will need to:
Submit an electronic application to the selected university/college;
Submit remittance of any application fee; and,
Be prepared to submit copies of official high school transcripts (and any college transcripts) on demand.
Q: Which universities/colleges can I apply for?
You can apply to any and all universities/colleges for which you believe you qualify.
Q: How can I determine which school would be best for my academic interests?
Each university/college has submitted information along with a link to their institution that may help you identify the best universities/colleges to meet your needs. You can also talk with an Education Services Officer or contact the LSP for additional information on participating universities/colleges.
Q: How will I pay for my education?
The payment of tuition and all other academic fees are the responsibility of each participant. The use of “in service” GI Bill education benefits, grants and student loans are encouraged. The Marine Corps tuition assistance program cannot be used. Contact a Veterans Administration Advisor and/or an Education Services Officer for guidance concerning education benefits. You can also go to the Marine For Life website, www.marineforlife.org, for assistance with applying for your military education benefits.