Two distinct scholarships are awarded yearly to ADP students to further support their education. Each scholarship is conferred based upon specific criteria, which reflects the values and aspirations of the donor or founder of the award. We encourage all students pursuing the Bachelor of Individualized Study (BIS) to apply for one or both of these scholarship opportunities. The call for applications opens in February and closes in March.
Elizabeth M. Finlayson Scholarship
In cooperation with the James Madison University Foundation, the Elizabeth M. Finlayson Scholarship in the amount of $1,800 is given in honor of Dr. Elizabeth M. Finlayson. Pivotal in establishing the Adult Degree Program in 1977, her unwavering passion for degree completion programs and adult learning led her to become the first director of the Adult Degree Program. Established in 1999, this scholarship recognizes the academic achievement of an adult student completing their undergraduate education later in life. It is a situation Dr. Finlayson experienced herself, having completed her education after traveling for 30 years as a military spouse and raising three children.
Notice: The Elizabeth M. Finlayson Scholarship is now being accepted through the Madison Scholarships Hub located in MyMadison
Selection Criteria:
- Must be in good academic standing
- Must be an entering or current student in the Bachelor of Individualized Study program
- Submit a completed application
- Submit a copy of your current unofficial transcripts
- Submit a personal statement
Dwight M. Sours Scholarship
In cooperation with the Bachelor of Individualized Study Alumni Chapter, the James Madison University Foundation, Inc., and James Madison University, the Adult Degree Program
Notice: The Dwight M. Sours Scholarship is now being accepted through the Madison Scholarships Hub located in MyMadison
Selection Criteria:
- Must demonstrate superior academic ability
- Must have completed a minimum of 20 graded credit hours at JMU at the time of application
- Must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.25 earned at JMU
- Must have declared major of Individualized Study
- Must be enrolled in a program of study approved by your particular school or college