Admission & Aid

Each year, Colgate honors its top 200 accepted students as Alumni Memorial Scholars. This recognition is the highest honor within the admission process, and an indication of an excellent match, both academically and personally, with Colgate.

Alumni Memorial Scholars (AMS) show great potential for intellectual and community leadership. The AMS program is designed to nurture that potential, reward achievement, and provide unique opportunities that capitalize on Colgate's strengths as a community of learners and leaders.

Beyond this recognition in the admission process, there are many benefits for Alumni Memorial Scholars throughout the four years and beyond. AMS events and the Alumni Memorial Scholars Fellowship Program offer numerous opportunities for furthering one's own intellectual growth within a supportive community. 

Selection as an Alumni Memorial Scholar by the admission staff is based on exceptional academic performance, demonstrated talents and contributions to one's community, and the respect a student has earned from both teachers and counselors. Though not a merit scholarship, the award does recognize academic merit and achievement combined with leadership and accomplishment in top candidates regardless of financial aid status. Students are selected without a separate application or nomination.

Students who apply to Colgate through regular decision are notified of the award by letter in late February, while students who apply to Colgate through Early Decision I receive notification in mid-December. Early Decision II applicants are notified of AMS recognition within four weeks of receipt of all admission materials. 

Financial aid for Alumni Memorial Scholars, consistent with Colgate's financial aid philosophy, is provided solely on the basis of demonstrated need. All other benefits listed above extend to all admitted scholars regardless of financial need.

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