The Mcgarlen Excellence And Leadership Scholarship
Sandra Quarshie 
INTRODUCTION
The McGarlen Excellence & Leadership Scholarship Program (MELSP) is designed to support international students who aspire to study in the United States. This prestigious program provides financial assistance for undergraduate, masters, and doctoral students, helping them advance academically while nurturing leadership skills and fostering community engagement.
WHO CAN APPLY?
The MELSP Scholarship is available to international students who fulfill the following requirements:
- Must be a citizen of one of the 90 eligible countries .
- Must apply to or be admitted at one of the 200 designated universities in the USA.
- Must demonstrate leadership experience through work, academic, or community involvement.
- Must show commitment to social impact in their home country.
- Must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale in their previous academic studies.
SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS
Depending on their qualifications and application strength, selected students may receive full or partial funding. Key benefits include:
1. Tuition Assistance Undergraduate students: Coverage up to $20,000 per academic year (maximum of four years). Master’s students: Up to $30,000 per academic year (for a maximum of two years). PhD candidates: Up to $40,000 per academic year (maximum of four years).
2. Additional Financial Support Travel Grant: A one-time $2,000 allowance for relocation expenses. Monthly Stipend: Receive $500 per month to help cover living costs. Housing Support: Choose between on-campus accommodation or a $5,000 annual housing stipend. Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage throughout the study period. Application Fee Reimbursement: Covers the fee for one university application or reimburses students who have already applied.
3. Post-Scholarship Opportunities Graduates become part of the MELSP Alumni Network, gaining career development, mentorship, and networking opportunities worldwide.
HOW TO APPLY
The MELSP Scholarship operates on a rolling basis, meaning applications are processed continuously until funding is exhausted. Early applications are strongly recommended.
Step 1: Select Your Application Route Pre-admission application: Apply for the scholarship before securing university admission. Post-admission application: Obtain university admission first, then apply for the MELSP scholarship.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents Applicants must submit: Proof of nationality (passport or identification document). Academic transcripts and proof of GPA. A Statement of Purpose explaining their leadership experience and community contributions. Letters of Recommendation from teachers, employers, or community figures. Proof of university application or admission (if available).
Step 3: Submit Your Application Complete the online application form. Upload all required documents. Await notification of your application outcome.
SCHOLARSHIP TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- To remain eligible for MELSP, scholars must:
- Be enrolled as full-time students throughout the scholarship period.
- Maintain a GPA of at least 3.0. Follow the university’s conduct policies.
- Not accept multiple scholarships at the same time. Complete their program within the funded duration.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in loss of scholarship benefits and possible repayment of awarded funds.
