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 criterion. 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?
The new class of Park Scholars is announced in early March.
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?
Over 1,300 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 University Scholars Program (USP) invites all Park Scholarships finalists to participate in the USP. 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 20-30 minutes and are conducted by a panel of 2-3 alumni and faculty. Students should expect questions related to the selection criteria and their applications. Candidates do not need to study for interviews, but should review their applications 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.