Milken Scholars
Scholarship Sponsored by Milken Family Foundation
Selection Criteria
The Milken Scholars Program identifies outstanding high school seniors in Los Angeles County, New York City, and Washington, D.C., for nomination by college counselors and other educators. Nominees are expected to graduate by June 2026 and demonstrate strong academic preparation, leadership, and community service. Selection balances academic thresholds with indicators of financial or other obstacles and confirmation of college admission prior to final selection. Applicants who advance to final rounds complete a detailed application and interview process.
Description: Candidates are nominated by high school counselors and educators and reviewed by the Program based on academic performance, leadership, community engagement, and demonstrated need.
Eligibility: Criteria include active community service and leadership; evidence of financial or other obstacles; U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or DACA status; admission to a four‑year college or university prior to final selection; a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.6 (90%); and meeting one of the academic/test alternatives (SAT superscore ≥1350, ACT superscore ≥29, AP exam scores ≥3, on track for an IB Diploma, or on track to earn an Associate degree). Washington, D.C. nominees must reside in and graduate from a D.C. high school. The Program is test‑flexible but not test‑blind; submitted scores must meet the stated thresholds.
Application Timeline: Nomination occurs through college counselors during the senior year, followed by completion of a detailed application with letters of recommendation, high school transcripts, any applicable test score reports, and a financial aid profile. Finalists are selected from applicants and invited to interview; specific deadlines and interview schedules are provided by the Program.
- Nomination-based selection from specific geographic regions.
- Academic thresholds and admission to a four‑year college are required.
- Leadership, community service, and demonstrated obstacles are considered.
- Multi-step application with documentation and finalist interviews.
Program Resources
Milken Scholars receive financial recognition, professional development support, and ongoing academic and career advising throughout college. The Program provides both annual monetary awards and a separate fund to aid the transition to the workforce or graduate study. Scholars must meet basic program responsibilities, including academic and participation requirements, and are encouraged to maintain regular contact with Program staff during college and as alumni. Program activities include an annual Summit and other events with expenses covered.
Award Value: Scholars receive $2,000 per year for each of four undergraduate years, plus a one‑time $2,000 fund to support workforce entry or graduate study preparation.
Academic and Career Support: The Program offers ongoing advising for academic progress, graduate work, fellowships, and career development, plus opportunities for in‑person campus visits and regular check‑ins.
Responsibilities: Scholars are expected to maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA during undergraduate study and attend all annual Program activities (with expenses paid), including the summer Summit.
- Monetary support spread across four undergraduate years plus a professional development fund.
- Ongoing advising for academics, graduate study, and careers.
- Obligation to maintain a 3.0 GPA and participate in annual Program activities.
- Program covers expenses for required events and encourages sustained engagement with staff.