The Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program helps high school seniors and recent high school graduates pursue rewarding careers as WV teachers in math, science, elementary education or special education.
Scholarship Details
- Up to $10,000 per year in financial support
- Renewable for up to four years
- Up to twenty five recipients selected each year
- Funds may be used for tuition, fees, room and board, and other educational expenses
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicant must be a graduating high school senior or recent high school graduate
- Applicant must demonstrate academic excellence, community service, and extracurricular involvement
- Applicant must enroll in an eligible West Virginia institution
- Applicant must plan to pursue a teaching career in West Virginia
- Applicant must commit to teaching for five years in a critical need area upon graduation
- Applicant must have a FAFSA on file
Application Process
- Complete the preliminary application prior to the stated deadline
- Create a WVSAM account to track application status
- Submit the Second Round Application if selected to advance, including FAFSA completion
- Provide a short video if chosen as a finalist
- Accept the award if selected and meet all program commitments to maintain eligibility
The Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program is a competitive scholarship for current high school seniors and recent high school graduates with a passion for teaching and a history of high academic achievement, community service, and active involvement in extracurricular activities while in high school.
