Arts Merit Selection Process
The arts merit scholarship competition follows an earlier timeline than the regular admissions process. Be sure to plan ahead so that you'll have ample time to prepare your materials or performances.
Register Online
Submit your on-line registration form between August 1 and December 1. (If you are applying for Early Decision 1, register by November 15.)
Apply for Admission to Bucknell
Apply for admission to Bucknell using the Common Application by December 1. (If you are applying for Early Decision 1, apply by November 15.)
Submit Creative Samples
Creative samples should be submitted directly to your department of interest by December 1.(November 15 for Early Decision I candidates.)
- Art or Art History
- Creative Writing
- Dance
- Film/Media Studies
- Music
- Literature
- Theatre
Apply for Financial Aid
To apply for need-based financial aid, complete the CSS PROFILE by January 15 of your Senior year (or November 15 for ED1 applicants). Visit www.bucknell.edu/financialaid for more information.
Compete on Campus
The Arts Merit Scholarship Committee will evaluate materials and notify candidates of their status on a rolling basis. Finalists will be invited to campus for a January weekend event that begins on Friday night with a welcome reception and dinner. Saturday activities vary by department but may include an interview with faculty members, an audition or review of creative materials and lunch with faculty, staff and students.
- Finalists must participate in on-campus selection programs to be eligible for a merit award.
- Scholarships awardees will be notified after the on-campus selection process by mid to late March.
If you do not receive an invitation to compete on campus or an arts merit scholarship offer, you will still be considered for admission to Bucknell, possibly for other merit scholarships, and for need-based aid if you applied for it.
