2008 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Undergraduate Scholarship
Evaluation Process
Applications will be evaluated by a panel of scientists and engineers who are experts in one or more of the supported fields, based on the student’s academic record and submitted test scores, reference reports, and essays. Reviewers provide an overall rating and a separate rating on each of the following:
- Academic Record
Transcripts are reviewed and evaluated in conjunction with information on the student’s program and information from reference reports. - Reference Reports
The best reference reports come from professors who know the applicant and can make an informed judgment about the applicant’s fitness for the proposed program of study. - SAT or ACT Test Scores (self-reported on your electronic application)
These are used to enhance other information related to academic potential. There are no minimum test-score requirements. Applications without test scores will be reviewed, but strong test scores can enhance other evidence of potential to succeed in an academic program. - Research Experience Essay
It is understood that scholarship applicants are less likely than fellowship applicants to have research experience at the time of application. For those who do have research experience, the best essays will do three things: succinctly describe the specifics of your experience, including the specific role that you played if you were part of a larger project; list any publications or presentations of research findings; and tell the reviewers what it is you think you gained from the experience. - Current Research Interests Essay
The best essays demonstrate both an ability to define a research problem relevant to the DHS mission and an understanding of how such a problem might be solved. However, since applicants are second year students, an essay that pays careful attention to defining a research interest that is relevant to the DHS mission can often succeed without much detail on how a research problem would be solved. These essays should contain only original thoughts or other properly attributed information. - Contribution to Public Service Essay
Reviewers will look for evidence that the applicant is interested in a public service career relevant to homeland security. The best essays will demonstrate insight into the career that interests you, the steps you may take to achieve your goals, and indicate how the scholarship will contribute to your career goals. Reviewers also take note of unique life experiences and backgrounds that motivate you to succeed in making the homeland safe and secure.
The most highly rated applications are then reviewed by DHS staff who pay attention to factors of special concern to DHS such as the relevance of the applicant’s research interest. The final selection of scholars is made by DHS.
In order to benefit fully from the benefits of our diverse society, the DHS Scholarship and Fellowship Program welcomes applications from all qualified individuals and strongly encourages women, minorities, and persons with disabilities to apply.
Conditions of Award
Detailed conditions of the awards made to the 2007 Class of DHS Scholars and Fellows are available for your review. Note that changes to these conditions related to the one-year service requirement that was added for this cycle are expected. However, those offered an award will have time to review final conditions before acceptance of the award.
To begin an application you must respond to a list of questions that will help you determine your eligibility to apply to the DHS Scholarship and Fellowship Program. You must answer all questions in the order they appear to get access to an application. There are several opportunities in the questionnaire for you to e-mail us if your answers to the questions do not result in access to an application. Thank you for your interest in the program and for taking the time to answer these questions as accurately as possible. Use the begin scholarship application link on the left to begin your application.
Useful Links
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