John M. Hay Scholarship
Carthage College · Direct application
Last updated by Award Scholar on
Eligibility
About this scholarship
The John M. Hay Scholarship honors President Lincoln's private secretary and secretary of state for presidents McKinley and Roosevelt within Carthage College's Presidential Scholarship Program. Six Hay Scholars are offered to incoming freshmen each year, with awards ranging from $33,000 per year to full tuition and renewing for four years. Apply for Carthage admission and submit the Presidential Scholarship Program application, high school activity list, and 250-word essay by December 3. Qualified applicants are notified in late December and invited to a second-round event with faculty conversations and an essay component.
Essay question
Common questions
How much is the John M. Hay Scholarship?
The John M. Hay Scholarship awards Up to $33,000/year. It is sponsored by Carthage College.
When is the John M. Hay Scholarship deadline?
December 3, 2026. Applications submitted after the deadline are typically not considered, so plan to finish early.
Who is eligible for the John M. Hay Scholarship?
Key requirements include: United States; High school; Undergraduate; Carthage College. Check the full eligibility section above, or create a free Award Scholar profile to have every requirement checked against your profile automatically.
Does the John M. Hay Scholarship require an essay?
Yes, the application includes one essay question. Award Scholar drafts scholarship essays in your own voice, so the writing takes minutes instead of hours.
How do I apply for the John M. Hay Scholarship?
Create a free Award Scholar profile to confirm you qualify, draft the essays in minutes, and get the official application link with deadline reminders.
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