The Gilder Lehrman History Scholar Award recognizes outstanding graduating college seniors who have demonstrated academic and extracurricular excellence in American History or American Studies.

Fifteen winners will be selected from candidates across the country. Awardees will attend specially arranged meetings with leading American historians and VIP behind-the-scenes tours of archives. The recipients will be reimbursed for up to $600 for travel expenses to New York, and room and board will be provided during the award weekend (June 8 to 11, 2012).

Eligibility:

At the time of application (March 15, 2012) students:

• Must be considered graduating seniors in an accredited college or university in the United States. (Must have already graduated and received your diploma by the time the program is held, June 8-11, 2012.)
• Must be a history or American studies major with an American history concentration.

All application materials must be received on or before March 15, 2012. Notifications will be mailed to all candidates by April 16, 2012.

If you have questions, please consult the FAQs first, and then contact us at scholars@gilderlehrman.org or 646-366-9666 if your question has not been answered.

To apply for the 2012 Gilder Lehrman History Scholar Award, students must submit the following materials:

• Academic writing sample of 7-10 pages. The sample can be a paper, an essay, or a thesis chapter.
• Two (2) letters of recommendation from American history or American studies faculty.
• Personal Statement: a 500-word academic autobiography giving special attention to achievements in American history.
• Official Transcript