Horizon Scholars Program

Transformational Educational Experience

Orange is on your horizon!

The Horizon Scholars program is one of the most prestigious opportunities available to incoming first-time freshmen regardless of academic major, including those who are undecided. As part of this intimate learning community experience, you'll be challenged to reach your fullest potential both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you're looking to connect with peers who share your relentless drive to succeed or want to expand your leadership experiences and global perspective, this unique opportunity invites students of any major to push the boundaries of what's possible during their time at OSU.

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Scholarship Impact

Horizon Scholars will receive:

$7,500 per year scholarship for four years
$5,000 one-time award toward a study abroad experience
$5,000 one-time internship or work experience stipend
In-state tuition for all students outside of Oklahoma

This scholarship can be combined with other awards and offers.

Selection Criteria

3.75 cumulative GPA
OR
27 ACT (or SAT equivalent)
OR
By Nomination

In addition to the GPA and ACT minimum, strong candidates should exemplify the Cowboy Code and demonstrate a well-rounded combination of academic potential, service, leadership and resilience as well as possess a desire for mentorship and the passion to dream as big as the sky. The candidate's academic profile, extracurricular involvement and future goals should reflect their potential to thrive during their time at OSU and beyond.

Application Process

Eligible incoming first-time freshmen in any academic major should complete their application by the Nov. 1 deadline. Selections will be made by March 1. To apply for the Horizon Scholars Program:

Complete your OSU admissions application, including the essay and leadership and involvement resume
Submit a supplemental video (two minutes max) AND a supplemental essay to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity to your OSU application portal
- Navigate to the section titled "Horizon Scholars" in the "Opportunities" tab

Intellectual Curiosity and Academic Experience

This prestigious opportunity focuses on career and leadership development. As part of the program, you and your fellow Horizon Scholars will be immersed in an intimate academic setting led by select faculty and personally mentored by successful donors to the program.

Horizon Scholar Academic Opportunities

The experience will include:

First-year seminar class exclusively for Horizon Scholars
Foundational curriculum within humanities, social sciences and STEM, with some special-topic classes specifically for Horizon Scholars
Upper-division interdisciplinary courses connected by a common theme
Opportunity to earn Honors credit toward a general Honors degree

Microcredentials in key co-curricular areas, such as career readiness and entrepreneurship, leadership, personal finance, public speaking, research, scholarship development and more
Exposure to discussion-based programming and artistic performances
Personalized connections to scholarship donors with opportunities for mentorship, networking and professional growth

Student posing with Pistol Pete