Submitted by Meera Roy
on
Dear Political Science Majors,
Thanks to the generosity of alumni and friends of Political Science, the department will award need- and merit-based scholarships to Political Science Majors during the 2026-27 academic year.
Deadline: Sunday, April 19, 2026
- Open to Political Science Majors
- Applicants may apply for more than one scholarship.
- See the attachment for information about materials to prepare for your application.
- Scholarship decisions will be announced by the end of May.
- Scholarships may be distributed in a single quarter or awarded across multiple quarters.
- Students graduating in Spring 2026 or Summer 2026 are not eligible to apply.
NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
Note: All need-based scholarships require submitting a FAFSA to be eligible.
- The Gary and Susan Duck Undergraduate Scholarship, maximum of $3,000
This scholarship supports first-generation college students based on financial need with special consideration given to applicants who have a demonstrated interest in environmental politics. Susan and Gary attended UW where Susan received her Master’s in Social Work and Gary received his Ph.D. in Political Science.
- The Lemieux Family Endowed Undergraduate Scholarship, maximum of $2,500
The Lemieux scholarship was established by Scott, Emily and Elaine Lemieux, a family strongly supportive of higher education. The scholarship supports Political Science Majors based on financial need.
- The Agnes C. Nelson Memorial Scholarship, maximum of $4,000
The Agnes C. Nelson Memorial Scholarship aims to alleviate the growing debt burden on future generations and bridge the widening gap in educational access.
To be eligible, applicants must
- Major in Political Science
- Have a FAFSA on file with the UW Office of Student Financial Aid demonstrating financial need
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above
- Complete a minimum of 25 credits in Political Science and Economics, at least 10 credits in each department. Courses may be in progress.
- Exhibit a strong interest in political science and economics, specifically the study of the interrelationship between the economy and political actions.
MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIP
- The Brian L. Comstock Merit Scholarship, maximum of $2,500
This scholarship recognizes a highly meritorious undergraduate. Brian L. Comstock received his undergraduate degree in Political Science before serving in the US Army and practicing law in the Seattle area.
Scholarship recipients may be announced in the department's newsletter and are required to write two letters of thanks to the scholarship donors, one after they accept the scholarship and another at the conclusion of the scholarship about how they benefited from the funds.
This information is also posted on the Political Science website.
We encourage all eligible students to apply!