Welcome to Scholars
A nationally acclaimed living–learning program
The attention of a small college, the opportunities of a cutting-edge research university.
Here's what to do next...
- Register for one of our Scholars Only two-day New Student Orientation dates this summer! You'll be able to learn more about your specific program, meet your program staff, register for your Fall classes and more!
- Are you an admitted student who missed submitting your Program Preference Form before the February 16 deadline? Join our Waitlist before May 1 for a chance to be considered for a Scholars program.
- Dig deeper into all things Scholars! Read up on our 13 unique programs and check out the 'About' and other pages on our website.
Programs that enhance your studies
Each College Park Scholars program covers a thematic area that allows students to connect their major and other interests and gain new perspectives
Learn About Our Programs
30th Annual Academic Showcase
We look forward to seeing our Scholars, mentors, faculty, staff, and distinguished guests on May 1, 2026!
Get 2026 Academic Showcase DetailsThis program sends me forward equipped with knowledge, skills, a network and the courage I need to continue my growth.
Important Upcoming Dates
Academic Showcase - May 1, 4-5:30 p.m. ET
Deadline to confirm UMD enrollment and on-campus housing - May 1
Scholars in the News
Showering the Community With Support
Founded by Public Leadership Scholars and UMD alum Omolayo Adebayo ’11, the Neighborhood Well offers not only showers, but also food, clothes, toiletries and a welcoming environment to those in need.
UMD students transform the campus golf course into a living environmental laboratory
Environment, Technology and Economy Scholars Mario Dajani and Preston Jackman took on the challenge of fixing a rain garden on the University of Maryland Golf Course, making it a living laboratory.
Policy Students Shepherd College Park Legislation to End Early Lease-Renewal Push
Thanks to Public Leadership Scholars alum Nick DiSpirito ’27 and fellow School of Public Policy major Amira Abujuma ’27, the College Park City Council unanimously passed an ordinance in February to prevent landlords from offering a lease renewal until 180 days before the current lease ends.
Where Beauty Meets Science
Life Sciences alum Kaia Ungerer (B.S. ’23, chemistry) takes on the challenges of product development in the beauty industry as a junior chemist at Cindy J Cosmetic Labs.
UNWIND Magazine Returns to Highlight Media Scholars and Terp Life at UMD
UNWIND Magazine, produced by Media, Self and Society, published its latest edition.
Mckinley's Climb
Mckinley Jovanovic, who is a Public Leadership Scholar, won last year’s National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA) Mideast regional tournament in the women’s 131-pound weight class—a first for a UMD woman in any class—and finished fifth in nationals to net All-American honors.