Betty and David Jones Scholars Program

Betty and David Jones both received their baccalaureate degrees from the University of Louisville. After graduation, they were lifelong supporters of the University and dedicated philanthropists, donating millions to various causes that included housing initiatives and public parks. To learn more about their commitment to education, click here.

The Betty and David Jones Scholars Program was established in 2006 to support continuing students with excellent academic achievement at the undergraduate level. Students are chosen at the end of their first year at the University of Louisville to participate in the program for the rest of their undergraduate career.

The Betty and David Jones Scholars application is closed and will re-open in late spring 2025.

The David and Betty Jones Scholarship award recognizes collegiate academic excellence. The Jones Scholars Program focuses on facilitating undergraduate research and creative activity by helping to connect participating students with faculty mentors and promoting undergraduate research opportunities. Jones Scholars are expected to establish a relationship with a mentor; to work toward completing research or creative projects appropriate to their respective fields; and to participate in all Jones Scholars programs and events (usually 3-4 per semester). 

Jones Scholarships for the upcoming year will be awarded competitively based on the following criteria: 

  • Minimum U of L cumulative GPA of 3.50 
  • Applicants should not have scholarships that cover more than 50% of total cost of attendance 
  • Applicants must be entering their sophomore year in Fall 2024, with an anticipated graduation date of Spring 2027
  • Interest in undergraduate research and/or creative activity 

Students who become Jones Scholars typically have received less than half-tuition support from university scholarships; and have three full years remaining in their undergraduate careers. Successful applicants may or may not have had research/creative activity experience but should be able to articulate how such plans fit into their future paths.     

Scholarship selection will be based on the strength of a student's:

  1. Transcript - please submit an unofficial copy
  2. Essay (400 - 500 words; outline your educational goals and address your interest in undergraduate research and/or creative activity)
  3. Two Letters of Recommendation*

An application consists of each of the three components listed above. Any application missing one or more of the above components is considered incomplete and will not be reviewed by the selection committee.

Jones Scholars selected for the Class of 2027 will receive a $2,000 scholarship for the 2024-25 academic year. The award is renewable (based on GPA, performance in the scholarship program, and availability of funding) for two additional (junior and senior) years.

*Letters of Recommendation are to be submitted by the recommender (not the student) and should be e-mailed directly to  by July 8, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. EST. 

Questions? Contact Luke Buckman at .