The Walter Byers Graduate Scholarship is an NCAA academic award recognizing student-athletes for outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service. Each year, two student-athletes receive a one-time scholarship to pursue graduate study in any field at an accredited institution. Recipients are selected through a competitive nomination and review process that considers their academic, athletic and community successes.
Scholarship Details
- One female and one male recipient are selected each year
- Each recipient receives a one-time scholarship payment of $24,000
- Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, service, athletic accomplishments and character
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a graduating senior at an NCAA member institution
- Must have competed in intercollegiate athletics at the varsity level
- Must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.50 on a 4.00 scale
- Must intend to enroll full-time in an accredited graduate program
- Must demonstrate exceptional character, leadership and service
Application Process
- Complete the scholarship nomination form
- Obtain official undergraduate transcripts
- Prepare a personal statement describing academic goals, leadership contributions and honors received
- Secure at least four letters of recommendation from four different endorsers
- Include one recommendation letter from a faculty member teaching in the discipline of the nominee’s baccalaureate degree
- Include one recommendation letter from a person able to evaluate the nominee’s contribution to intercollegiate athletics
- Include two additional recommendation letters from endorsers selected by the nominee
- Submit the complete nomination packet for consideration through the NCAA’s nomination and review process
- Finalists are notified in early March
- Finalists should be prepared to participate in a virtual interview held in March
The Walter Byers Graduate Scholarship provides substantial financial support for student-athletes pursuing advanced education. Eligible student-athletes should consider applying for this opportunity to help fund their graduate studies.
