Martin Luther King Scholars Program

Information about the Martin Luther King Scholars Program at the University of Louisville.

An image of 34 students in a group.

Program Overview

"The MLK Scholars Program and the advisors encourage each student to find their voice to make change in the world." - Jason Jewell, 2013 MLK Scholar

The Martin Luther King Scholars participate in an engaging leadership development program while enrolled at the University of Louisville. This mentored scholar program includes a scholarship, which has historically been awarded to ten Black/African American or Latinx high school graduates from Kentucky or Southern Indiana. MLK Scholars participate in a program designed to develop critical thinking skills, engage in self exploration, and establish an appreciation for civic engagement. MLK Scholars enroll in courses focused on social justice and peace studies, engage in experiential learning through community service initiatives, and, during the second year, participate in a civil rights immersion travel experience. The program includes full in-state tuition and up to an additional $8,000 (see information on university stacking policy) to cover other university expenses. A minimum high school GPA of 3.5 is required to apply. ACT/SAT scores are not considered. 

Meet the Scholars

Any student with a commitment to social justice, community service, and UofL’s dedication to becoming a premier anti-racist community is welcome to apply. All applicants must meet the Kentucky and Southern Indiana residency requirement in addition to the 3.5 cumulative high school GPA requirement. Students who are eligible to apply for the MLK Scholars Program will use their UofL Application Gateway to apply. The deadline to apply and to submit all supplemental materials is December 15.

Apply to the Martin Luther King Scholars Program