Stamps Scholars Program

Scholarship Sponsored by University of Connecticut

Overview

Description: The Stamps Scholarship recognizes outstanding secondary school seniors who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, notable service to school and community, and leadership and citizenship qualities. Applicants should be prepared to enroll at the University of Connecticut for the fall semester they indicate. Early Decision applicants are not notified of the Stamps award at admission; scholarship selection is conducted separately. Selection decisions for the scholarship are typically made in early February.

• Recognizes academic excellence, service, and leadership.
• Intended for incoming University of Connecticut freshmen.
• Early Decision admission notifications do not include the scholarship decision.
• Stamps selections are finalized in early February.

Eligibility

Eligibility: Applicants must be current secondary school students expected to graduate and enroll at the University of Connecticut in the specified fall semester (fall 2027 in the source). Candidates should demonstrate leadership in school or community and a sustained commitment to community service. Submission of standardized test scores is optional; applicants who submit scores are expected to meet competitive thresholds. Academic performance is a primary factor: a minimum GPA of 3.8 on a 4.0 scale and, if available, a rank in the top 10% of the graduating class are expected.

• Must be a secondary school student enrolling at UConn in the stated fall term.
• Leadership and community service are required components.
• Standardized tests are optional; suggested minimums: SAT 1420 or ACT 32 if submitted.
• Competitive academic profile: ~3.8 GPA and top 10% class rank when available.

Selection Process

Selection considerations: The Stamps Scholarship selection evaluates total achievement using multiple materials that reflect academic performance, leadership, and character. Review factors include GPA and class rank (if available), optional standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, short answer responses, and demonstrated leadership in school and community. The Scholarship Selection Committee may invite selected applicants for interviews as part of the final selection stage. Decisions are made holistically with emphasis on both accomplishments and potential for contribution.

• Holistic review of academic record and personal attributes.
• Letters of recommendation and short answers are important evidence.
• Interviews are used at the committee’s discretion.
• Emphasis on leadership and community impact as well as grades.

Required Documents

Required documents: In addition to a completed admission application, applicants must submit required scholarship materials and include their full name and date of birth on every document. The Stamps Scholarship Supplemental Application is available in the applicant portal after completing the Common Application or Coalition Application and includes specified short-answer prompts. Applicants must upload a detailed résumé and provide two letters of recommendation; the same recommendation letters may serve both admission and scholarship purposes when applicable. Recommendation letters may be submitted through electronic services (for example, Naviance) or by email to [email protected].

Stamps Scholarship Supplemental Application: The supplemental application requires short-answer responses that address community service, how the applicant will contribute to UConn and broader communities, and why they qualify as an exceptional student and leader. These prompts are brief and focused on demonstrated impact and potential.

1. What service to your community are you the most proud of and why? (100 words)
2. The University of Connecticut is committed to helping every student grow intellectually and become a contributing member of the state, national, and world communities. How will you make UConn and the world a better place? (200 words)
3. Stamps Scholars are exceptional students and meaningful leaders. Why do you feel that you meet this description? (100 words)

Résumé: Upload a detailed résumé that highlights activities, accomplishments, talents, and work experience as part of the supplemental application.

Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are required for Stamps consideration; they may also fulfill admission letter requirements if applicable. Submit letters via electronic systems or to the university email above.

• Include full name and date of birth on every required document.
• Complete the supplemental application in the applicant portal after applying for admission.
• Provide a detailed résumé and two recommendation letters.
• Recommendation letters can be submitted electronically or by email to the admissions office.