I am not a member of Phi Beta Kappa. Can I still apply to this scholarship?
Yes. Phi Beta Kappa membership is not required. However, we encourage you to learn more about Phi Beta Kappa’s work as an advocate for the liberal arts and sciences before completing your application. Phi Beta Kappa is committed to highlighting the value of expertise in the arts, humanities, mathematics, natural sciences and social sciences in service to communities and to the nation.
Why is my college not listed as an option in the dropdown menu in the application?
Only students at Phi Beta Kappa’s 293 chapter colleges and universities are eligible to apply. You can see if your college is included by checking here.
I am a senior/first-year in college. Can I apply for this scholarship?
Unfortunately, you are not eligible for Key into Public Service Scholars. This scholarship is for continuing undergraduates with an anticipated graduation year of either 2024 or 2025.
My major is not in the liberal arts or sciences. Am I still eligible?
This scholarship is intended for students pursuing a liberal arts and sciences education, but is not exclusive to any specific major.
When is the deadline to apply?
The application will open early November each year, and will close late January the following year.
When will I find out if I have received the scholarship?
We will notify Key into Public Service Scholar recipients in late April.
Do I need an official transcript?
You may upload either an official or unofficial transcript, as long as it is up to date and includes all of your coursework at the time of submission. An official transcript will be required to formally receive the award.
Is there a minimum grade point average for this scholarship?
The minimum considered GPA for this scholarship is a 3.5.
What is Phi Beta Kappa looking for in a Service Scholar?
- Intellectual Curiosity: Ideas excite you and you learn from many viewpoints. You are passionate about your arts and sciences education, and eager to learn more about the world around you.
- Breadth and Interdisciplinary Depth: You demonstrate academic excellence in your arts, humanities, mathematics, natural science, or social science major with a minimum 3.0 grade point average. In addition, you also take a range of coursework outside your primary field of interest as demonstrated in your transcript and can communicate why a well-rounded education matters.
- Leadership: You can identify how you influence others positively, either on or off campus through academic research, campus extracurricular activities, internships, employment, or community organizing.
- Service to Others: You would like to pursue a career in government or another form of public service to serve the common good. You can show a meaningful commitment to others by your participation in volunteer/community service activities.
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