Returning applicants
The Leadership Scholarship is competitive, though the odds are encouraging — on average, about a third of applicants receive awards, though each cycle is a little different.
Students who applied but were not awarded previously are strongly encouraged to try again!
Reworking your application for a future cycle if you were not selected
If you weren't awarded, a workshop offers feedback for your next attempt.
Because demand for feedback is high, we aren't able to meet one-on-one to review unawarded applications equitably. If you'd like support reworking your application for a future cycle, we invite you to attend a "Reworking your MG application" workshop, which covers feedback that applies to most applicants.
If you've held a Mary Gates Leadership Scholarship before
Those applying for a second Leadership Scholarship should demonstrate leadership and project growth since your last award, not a repeat of it.
If you've received a Mary Gates award before, acknowledge that in your new application and set out your goals for this award period. Reviewers and interviewers will want to know two things: what you've accomplished since your last application, and what you're planning for the new one.
What reviewers look for if you were previously awarded a Leadership Scholarship
Returning applicants are evaluated against the same criteria as everyone else, but with higher expectations in each area:
- A larger effort. A project that takes on more responsibility or works at a greater scale than your previous award, building on what came before.
- A deeper understanding of leadership. A more developed, more elaborate connection between your project and your leadership practice.
- A clear account of growth. What you accomplished and how you grew under your prior award, the new learning or achievements you expect this period, and how your leadership growth connects to your longer-term goals.
What to address in your application
Describe your role and how it has changed since your prior award — the new challenges you'll take on, and whether you'll carry additional responsibilities.
If you're starting a new project or working with a new mentor, explain the reason for the change: the new learning it opens up, and how your new mentor will contribute.