Outstanding Student Leader & Scholar Awards 2026
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Welcome and thank you for your interest in the Outstanding Leaders & Scholars Awards

Each year the University of Florida's Alumni Association, in partnership with the Honors Program, recognizes students who have shown exemplary scholarship or leadership during their undergraduate career.  Undergraduate seniors who have applied for graduation during the 2025-2026 academic year are encouraged to apply. 

*A seperate application must be created and submitted if you intend to apply for both awards.   

Recipients will be recognized at an awards ceremony in advance of  the Spring 2026 Commencement activities. Applications should be completed and submitted by Friday February 6, 2026 at 5:00pm (EST).

To be eligible for the Outstanding Scholar or Leader Award, applicants must meet the following general criteria:

  • Be an undergraduate student who has filed for graduation during the 2025-2026 academic year (Fall 2025, Spring 2026, or Summer 2026).
  • Be in good academic and disciplinary standing with the University of Florida (verified).

Application Criteria and Requirements

Outstanding Leader Award:

  • Key Criteria: Demonstrate significant leadership qualities (3.0 GPA minimum recommended).
  • Submission: Resume, Essay, and Letter of Recommendation.

Outstanding Scholar Award:

  • Key Criteria: Excel academically (cum laude or higher honors, two high-impact practices).
  • Submission: Scholarly Engagement Summary, Essay, and Letter of Recommendation.

 

*The Selections Committee reserves the right to determine when the award will be given each year as well as the number of candidates selected. In addition, the Committee may require, as necessary, interviews with candidates if specific questions or issues arise.

PLEASE carefully review this Rules section for specific components and instructions for either the Leader or Scholar application.

General Instructions:

All application materials must be submitted through this application portal Friday February 6, 2026 at 5:00pm (EST). Your application will NOT be considered complete until your letter of recommendation is received. Letters of Recommendation will require an email invite prompted in each application. Please advise your recommender to montior ALL email inboxes for the invite.  

Outstanding Scholar Award Application:

  • Part I: Scholarly Engagement: Provide context for your participation in at least two relevant high-impact practices at UF (see categories below). These activities can be within the same category or in different categories. For each activity, provide a concise description (1-2 sentences), including mentor/advisor/supervisor information, dates of participation, major accomplishments, and other relevant details. Focus on depth and quality of experience over quantity. Do not upload a resume.
    • Undergraduate Research
    • Study Abroad / Global Engagement
    • Internship, Co-op, or Practicum
    • Service / Community-Based Learning
    • Common Intellectual Experience (e.g. Honors Program, Innovation Academy, International Scholars, academic design/case team, etc.)
    • Capstone Project (e.g. undergraduate thesis, culminating portfolio or project, performance/exhibition)
  • Part II: Essay: In 1-2 pages (12 pt font, double spaced, Times New Roman), discuss how your involvement with these high-impact practices has influenced your identity as a scholar at UF and contributed to your post-graduate destination and interests. Be specific.
  • Part III: Reference: A letter of recommendation is required from someone who has supervised, advised, and/or mentored you in one of the activities listed in Part I. The letter should include:
    • Context in which they know you.
    • Brief analysis of your scholarly activity (motivation, commitment, outcomes).
    • Projection of your potential future impact

 

Outstanding Leader Award Application:

  • Letter of Recommendation: One letter of recommendation (two-page maximum, double-spaced) is required from a UF-affiliated source (faculty, advisor, etc.). The letter must demonstrate the applicant's accomplishments and/or service to UF. Confirm the applicant has submitted a signed application.
  • Resume: A resume (two-page maximum) documenting leadership experiences in the following areas:
    • University-Wide Leadership
    • College/Departments
    • Student Organizations
    • Community Service
  • Essay: In two pages (12 pt Times New Roman font), answer the following questions:
    • Describe challenges you have faced as a leader.
    • How have you made a significant and positive impact on the University of Florida community through your leadership?
    • Describe your leadership roles at UF, your accomplishments, and any opportunities for change you implemented that significantly impacted your organization or the UF community