FAQ: The Selection Process
- By what criteria are Park Scholarships candidates evaluated?
- Is financial need taken into consideration for the Park Scholarships?
- When are Park Scholars selected?
- When will I know about my status?
- How many students apply for the Park Scholarship each year?
- Do Park Scholarships finalists automatically receive an invitation to join the University Scholars Program?
- Can the Park Scholarship be deferred?
- What are the Park Scholarship interviews like?
- May I reschedule semifinal or final interviews if I have a conflict?
By what criteria are Park Scholarships candidates evaluated?
The Selection Committees evaluate all candidates at every stage of the selection process on scholarship, leadership, service, and character.
Is financial need taken into consideration for the Park Scholarships?
No, the Park Scholarship is a merit-based award, and financial need is not a selection criteria. Park Scholarships candidates should also apply for need-based aid if they think they may be eligible. For more information, visit the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid Web site.
When are Park Scholars selected?
They are selected by March 1.
When will I know about my status?
All applicants will be notified at each stage via e-mail, but they can also check their status on their WolfPAW account. See Important Dates for specific notification dates.
How many students apply for the Park Scholarship each year?
About 1,000 highly qualified candidates are expected to apply for the Park Scholarship this year.
Do Park Scholarships finalists automatically receive an invitation to join the University Scholars Program?
Yes, the USP extends offers to all Park Scholarships finalists the opportunity to participate in the University Scholars program. For more details on the USP, visit the USP Web site.
Can the Park Scholarship be deferred?
Yes, in fact we encourage students to defer their university studies for one year to travel or work abroad or to engage in some other 'gap year' activity. Incoming students may request a deferral in writing.
What are the Park Scholarship interviews like?
Interviews usually last between 20-30 minutes and are conducted by a panel of 2-3 alumni and faculty. Students should expect questions based off of their application and that relate to the selection criteria. Candidates do not need to study for interviews but should review their application beforehand. Interviews also provide candidates an opportunity to ask questions about the Park Scholarships and NC State.
May I reschedule semifinal or final interviews if I have a conflict?
We regret that we cannot reschedule interviews. Hundreds of alumni and students are interviewed at semifinal and final interviews; we are unable to arrange alternate dates. Thus, we provide notification of the possible interview dates well in advance.