Colgate's scholars programs offer high-achieving students opportunities to pursue academic passions through independent research, global travel, and other enriching experiences.

Jacob Pilawa ’20 with the telescope at Colgate's Foggy Bottom Observatory
Jacob Pilawa ’20 was planning to use his AMS research grant for an astrophotography project spanning continents.

Alumni Memorial Scholars (AMS)

Honoring the 166 alumni who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars, the AMS program emphasizes growth and enrichment in four spheres:

  • intellectual
  • social
  • cultural
  • civic engagement

Scholars earn the opportunity to receive grants, up to a total of $6,000, that can be used for independent research, academic conference attendance, and internships.

No need to apply: Alumni Memorial Scholars are selected during the first-year admission process

More about AMS

Benton scholars in red "gumby" suits aboard a research voyage
Benton Scholars participating in a SEA voyage to the Seamounts National Monument.

Benton Scholars

The Benton Scholars program seeks to empower students who share a passion for independent and creative thinking to start doing independent and creative things. Benton Scholars study together and work to create a lively intellectual community at Colgate.

More about Benton Scholars

Two OUS scholars work together in an OUS study lounge
OUS scholars often meet to work together in the study lounges of the OUS building.

Office of Undergraduate Studies (OUS)

The Office of Undergraduate Studies (OUS) scholars program promotes access to educational opportunities and provides continued academic support to students who demonstrated a potential to thrive in their lives at Colgate by overcoming significant educational and economic hurdles at home.  

Eligibility for admission to Colgate through OUS is determined at the time of admission — no separate application is necessary.

More about (OUS)