Big Blue STEM Scholars

Our Big Blue STEM Scholars gain access to Millikin University’s unique Performance Learning opportunities, which allow students to integrate their classroom and laboratory knowledge with real-world, hands-on experience in their field. Our students begin doing the work of their careers on day one! They serve side-by-side with faculty in conducting groundbreaking, graduate-level research. Solve complex scientific problems. Develop innovative ideas using state-of-the-art technology. And above all, graduate prepared for the future and poised for success. 

While Big Blue STEM Scholars receive free tuition, textbooks, housing, food and a summer research stipend, the benefits they receive are not purely financial in nature. Our scholars flourish within the environment of a dedicated learning community and with the support of engaged faculty who serve as committed academic mentors. They form relationships with fellow scholars as they work within cohorts and build professional networks as they conduct research and engage in professional development opportunities.

In order to be considered for the Big Blue STEM Scholars Project, you must be a new first-year or transfer student and meet the following criteria:

• Be a United States citizen
• Be enrolled full-time
• Demonstrate eligibility for a federal Pell Grant
• Have a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• Show evidence of College Algebra readiness (ACT Math ≥ 22, SAT Math ≥ 540 or equivalent proficiency such as dual-credit, AP credit, etc.)
• Major in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics or Physics

Apply to Millikin University. Applications are accepted at millikin.edu/apply or through the Common Application at commonapp.org/explore/millikin-university. Applying is free, no essay is required, and applications are considered on a rolling basis.

• Send credentials to Millikin, including transcripts and test scores. Millikin’s ACT code is 1080, and our SAT code is 1470.
• Apply for the Big Blue STEM Scholars Program after you have been admitted to Millikin. Scholarship applicants are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. For the best chance to receive scholarships, submit your application for admission by December 1.
• Eligible students who are selected for the Big Blue STEM Scholars Program interview process will be interviewed on Scholarship Interview Day in February.