The University of Mary Washington Scholarships 2026 in the United States are now accepting applications. The scholarship in Virginia is open to all international students. In the first year of the new initiative, UMW wants to provide funding for 15 students. Merit scholarships are also offered at UMW, including the Alvey Scholarships for out-of-state students and the full-ride Washington Scholars program for Virginia students. UMW is an exceptional in-state college option because of its Tuition Promise, which provides full tuition to Virginia students who are eligible for Pell grants.
The Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program is one of the most exciting funding opportunities for aspiring scientists nationwide, and on August 1, 2025, the University of Mary Washington (UMW) formally opened its admissions portal, inviting students to apply for Fall 2026 enrollment. This fellowship aims to increase the impact of students who are enthusiastic about STEM fields and is funded by a historic $36 million donation from the late Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59, a pioneer in electron microscopy. In its initial year, UMW plans to choose 15 exceptional first-year students for this esteemed grant.
Through innovative research and a welcoming community, the University of Mary Washington is committed to improving the world. As a public liberal arts university, we are educating the next generation of problem solvers by harnessing the potential of the liberal arts. Director of Undergraduate Research Elizabeth Lewis stated, “UMW should be the first choice for undergraduate students interested in a career in science, whether it be in medicine, biology, environmental sciences, data science, math, chemistry, or physics.” We provide unmatched financing for these fields, allowing students to collaborate with professors on practical research, co-author publications, and exhibit their work.
Details of University of Mary Washington Scholarships in USA
| University: | University of Mary Washington |
| Degree level: | Bachelors |
| Scholarship coverage: | Funded |
| Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
| Award country: | United States |
| Last Date: | 1 November 2025 |
Read Also: Oregon State University Scholarships in USA
Financial Benefits
- Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program: Through the Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59 Summer Science Institute, students can co-author scientific publications, do faculty-mentored research, and earn full undergraduate research funding.
- Alvey Scholarships: For out-of-state students, the Alvey Scholarships provide full tuition, fees, lodging, meals, and special experiences.
- Washington Scholars Program: The Washington Scholars Program offers Virginia students full-ride merit scholarships that cover all living and educational expenses.
- UMW’s Tuition Promise: For Virginia students who qualify for the Pell Grant, this program pays for their whole tuition.
Available Fields
The University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia, which is ideally situated between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, is the only institution offering this scholarship opportunity. More than 100 majors, minors, and study areas are available at the university, with a focus.
- environmental science,
- chemistry,
- physics,
- math,
- data science
- biology
Documents Required
- A complete application for admission: Your application for admission doubles as your scholarship application for a number of the university’s scholarships, including the major merit-based ones like the Washington Scholars and Alvey programs.
- Academic transcripts: One of the main considerations for merit scholarships is your academic standing. Transcripts submitted with your admissions application will be used by the university to assess your eligibility.
- A completed online scholarship application: You will receive a NetID to access the university’s scholarship portal after being accepted to UMW. You will be immediately matched with specific scholarships for which you are eligible when you complete the general scholarship application on this portal.
Eligibility Criteria
At UMW, eligibility for particular scholarships varies according to residency, academic focus, and financial need.
- Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program: Students interested in science-related majors, including medical sciences, biology, chemistry, physics, math, and environmental studies, can apply to the Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program. Since early decision and early action applicants receive preferential treatment, it is imperative that you apply early.
- Alvey Scholarships: This all-inclusive, merit-based award is intended especially for out-of-state students who have outstanding academic records. Candidates are chosen from among those accepted into the honors program at UMW.
- Washington Scholars Program: The Washington Scholars Program offers Virginia students with outstanding academic qualifications a distinguished full-ride grant.
- UMW’s Tuition Promise: The Tuition Promise program at UMW is available to Virginia students who qualify for a Pell Grant. You must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to be eligible. For qualified students, the program pays the entire cost of tuition.
How to Apply
- Submit Your Admissions Application: Applying for admission to UMW is the first and most important step. Either UMW’s direct online application or the Common Application can be used for this. On August 1, 2025, applications for Fall 2026 became available. The majority of the university’s scholarships are awarded based on your application for admission.
- Meet Scholarship Deadlines: To increase your chances, it’s essential to apply by the priority deadlines. Early applicants are given special consideration for competitive scholarships.
- Early Decision (binding): November 1, 2025
- Early Action (non-binding): November 15, 2025
- Regular Decision: February 1, 2026
- Complete the Scholarship Application: You will be given a NetID upon acceptance at UMW. This will allow you to access the UMW Scholarship Manager portal and complete an additional scholarship application. When you finish this application, scholarships for which you qualify will be automatically matched with you.
- Submit Financial Aid Forms: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a requirement for need-based scholarships like UMW’s Tuition Promise. Your eligibility for federal and other need-based financial aid is assessed using this form.
Conclusion
With a variety of scholarships available for the 2026 academic year, the University of Mary Washington is a good choice for those looking for substantial financial aid for their undergraduate education. Through the recently launched and fiercely competitive Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program, the university is especially committed to helping STEM students. Additionally, top-tier candidates can receive full scholarships through the Alvey Scholarships and the Washington Scholars Program. The Tuition Promise offered to Virginia residents who qualify for Pell Grants further demonstrates UMW’s dedication to ensuring that education is accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does UMW’s Tuition Promise work?
UMW’s Tuition Promise is a need-based program for Virginia residents who are eligible for the Pell Grant. The program covers the full cost of tuition for these students. To be considered, you must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
What is the Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program?
For 15 first-year students who are enthusiastic about STEM subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics, there is a brand-new, extremely competitive fellowship available. It offers students complete undergraduate research funding, faculty collaboration opportunities, and co-author publications, all made possible by a $36 million grant.
