About Udall Scholarship

The Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation seeks to honor those students who invest and demonstrate commitment to the environment, public policy, and public health. The fund wishes to reward those young scholars who have recognized the importance of natural treasurers and the critical issues that face Americans.

Every year the Udall foundation seeks to award approximately sixty scholarships and fifty honorable mentions on the basis of merit to students across the US. Students in the fields of environmental science, policy, engineering, science, education, planning and renewal, business, health, justice, and economics are encouraged to apply. The fund also recognizes Native Americans pursuing public and community health care, tribal government, and public policy that affects Native American communities are also encouraged to apply. The foundation will award scholarships to cover eligible expense for tuition, fees, books, and room and board up to a maximum of $7,000.

Awards:

  • 55 Scholarships nationwide - up to $7,000 for tuition, room & Board, or other educational expenses
  • 50 honorable mentions 

Eligibility:

  • For undergraduates who intend to pursue careers in environmental public policy or Native American or Alaskan natives whose careers show commitment to tribal public policy or Native American or Alaskan natives whose careers show a dedication to Native health care.
  • Be a college sophomore or junior at the time of application;
  • Have a college grade-point average of at least "B;"
  • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or U.S. national;
  • Demonstrate commitment and potential to make a contribution to environmental public policy and to foster excellence in the field.
  • Obtain institutional nomination
  • Submit UNM Preliminary Application (Sample UNM Application) by 11/20

Relevant websites:

  1. Sample UNM Application
  2. UNM Preliminary Application
  3. Udall Scholarship official site
  4. Environmental conflict resolution
  5. Tribal Leadership

Udall Applicants

The Udall Scholarship application requires an institutional endorsement. All applicants of the Udall Scholarship have to go through the institutional selection process first. The NISF selection committee will review your application and select six nominees from the University of New Mexico.

Application Process:

  • Attend the NISF information sessions held in October.
  • Submit the UNM Preliminary Online Application by 11:59 pm, November 20.
  • UNM Nominees will be announced early December.
  • The Scholarship deadline is usually early March.

Useful Links

Udall Nominees

Udall Application/Supporting Documents

  • Udall online application
  • An 800‐word essay (12 point font) "discuss a significant public speech, legislative act, book, or public policy statement by Congressman Morris K. Udall or Secretary of Interior Stewart L. Udall and its impact on your field of study, interests, and career goals."
  • College/university transcript(s)
  • Copy of tribal enrollment card (for categories 2 & 3)
  • Three letters of recommendation 1. a current or recent faculty member who can discuss the nominee’s potential; 2. a current or recent faculty member in the nominee’s field of study; and 3. another individual who can attest to the nominee’s capabilities.

Selection Process

November 20UNM Preliminary Application Due
Mid December UNM Nominees Announced
December Log into Online Application
Late January Confirmation of Recommenders
Late FebruaryRecommendation Letters Due, Non-UNM Transcripts Due
Early March Submit online application
Early March Deadline
Mid AprilUdall Scholars announced
AugustUdall Scholar Orientation in Tucson, AZ

Helpful Websites