The Centennial Scholars Program undergraduate

application is now CLOSED for the 2023-24 academic year.

Our Mission

The Centennial Scholars Program provides financial assistance and a multi-level academic support network to retain eligible under-represented students.

We believe that qualified and deserving Virginia students who are not able to finance the cost of attending college should have the opportunity to graduate from a higher-education institution. In addition, we feel a holistic support system is essential in order to provide assistance and help students grow throughout their undergraduate careers.

Our Story

The Centennial Scholars Program at James Madison University accepted its first class of students in 2004. This began as an initiative by former JMU President, Linwood Rose, to increase the culture of diversity at JMU. CSP offers full scholarships to Virginia residents who demonstrate financial need. Through the program, students also receive academic support, peer mentoring, interaction with faculty mentors, cultural enrichment activities and career-oriented workshops. The program requires students to maintain a 3.0 GPA, perform community service and participate in campus activities.

As of June 2022, CSP has graduated over 730+ students, and maintains an 87% graduation rate (6-year rate) for the last three cohorts and a 93% graduation rate for the first-year cohort.  Most all majors are represented in CSP and at least 35% go on to medical school, law school, and other graduate programs.