Scholarships at Pennsylvania State University

The Ajay and Paayal Nair Social Justice Scholarship recognizes Penn State undergraduates who provide outstanding leadership in student government, social services, mass media, or similar campus activities and who volunteer or have developed a plan to improve fair treatment of underserved populations. Consideration is through the Educational Equity central scholarship application, which opens annually for the next academic year with one application covering all equity scholarships. Students at any Penn State campus including World Campus may apply. Submit the application with short essay responses each year; renewal is possible but not guaranteed.

The Dhargalkar Family Scholarship supports full-time Penn State University Park undergraduates who are children of immigrants to the United States. Both of the student's birth parents must have been born outside the United States as non-U.S. citizens. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale. Parents' citizenship or immigration status at the time of awarding does not affect eligibility. Students apply through the Educational Equity central scholarship application, which uses one form and short essays to consider applicants for all equity scholarships. Submit a new application each academic year for consideration.

The Smile for Sam Scholarship provides recognition and financial assistance to outstanding third- and fourth-year Penn State undergraduates who maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate past and continuing leadership through community service or student organizations. The award honors students making positive contributions to campus and community life. Nominations are accepted during the spring Student Service and Leadership Awards cycle through Penn State Student Affairs. Selection considers organizational leadership, community service record, academic standing, and financial need alongside other Service and Leadership Award criteria announced each spring semester.