- ~USD 20,000 over 4 yearsMaximum Award
- Founded 1998Program Start Year
- ~3,000 students supportedRecipients to Date
- Northern New Mexico residentsGeographic Focus
- 3.25 minimum GPAAcademic Requirement
- Internships & mentorship includedAdditional Benefits
At a glance
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Funding
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Max amount
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
United States
Country
LANL Foundation
Provider
The LANL Foundation Four-Year Undergraduate Scholarship Program offers financial support to high school seniors and current undergraduate students from Northern New Mexico, helping them pursue higher education. Established in 1998, the program has since awarded over $15 million in scholarships to nearly 3,000 students. These scholarships, ranging from $1,000 for one year up to $20,000 over four years, can be utilized at any accredited college or university. Beyond financial aid, the program provides mentorship, internship opportunities at Los Alamos National Laboratory and partner organizations, and peer support through dedicated ambassadors. The scholarship is funded by contributions from Los Alamos National Laboratory employees and other donors, allowing for consideration across more than 30 unique scholarship opportunities through a single application. The program particularly encourages applications from students traditionally underrepresented in higher education, such as first-generation college students, rural students, and those with financial need. In 2026, the LANL Foundation distributed nearly $1.4 million in scholarships to 239 students across its various programs. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including a minimum GPA and submission of letters of recommendation and essays. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Tuition Fees — Financial support to cover tuition costs at accredited colleges and universities.
- Living Expenses — Funds can be used to offset living costs while pursuing higher education.
- Books and Supplies — Assistance with the purchase of required academic materials and equipment.
- Scholarship Amount — Awards range from ~USD 1,000 for one year to ~USD 20,000 over four years (est.).
- Professional Development — Access to paid summer internships at Los Alamos National Laboratory and partner organizations.
- Mentorship — Professional mentorship with individuals in students' fields of interest.
How to apply
To apply for the LANL Foundation Four-Year Undergraduate Scholarship, eligible students must complete an online application by the specified deadline, ensuring all required documents and essays are submitted.
- Access the Online Application — Begin by visiting the official LANL Scholars website (lanlscholars.org) to locate and access the online application portal.
- Complete Application Sections — Fill out all required sections of the application form, providing accurate personal, academic, and contact information.
- Write Essays — Prepare and submit short essays addressing your goals, leadership experiences, and community service. An optional essay is available for additional information.
- Obtain Letters of Recommendation — Secure two letters of recommendation; one must be an academic reference from a teacher or counselor.
- Submit Transcripts — Arrange for official academic transcripts to be sent, demonstrating your minimum 3.25 GPA.
- Submit Application — Review all submitted materials carefully and submit your complete application by the January 10, 2027 deadline.
Eligibility
ResidencyHigh school seniors or current undergraduate students who live in Rio Arriba, Sandoval, San Miguel, Santa Fe, Mora, Los Alamos, or Taos counties, New Mexico, or are members of Northern New Mexico’s tribes, nations, and pueblos.
Academic StandingA minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 is required.
Study LevelApplicants must be pursuing an undergraduate degree (Bachelors).
InstitutionScholarships can be used at colleges and universities inside or outside New Mexico.
Students traditionally underrepresented in higher education, including first-generation college students, rural students, and students with financial need, are strongly encouraged to apply.
Eligible countries
United States
Deadlines
2026-2027 Academic Year2027-01-10
Selection
Scholarship recipients are chosen by a committee of volunteer reviewers. This committee matches students with suitable scholarship opportunities based on their interests, backgrounds, experiences, and goals, considering more than 30 unique scholarship possibilities. The program particularly encourages applicants from groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education.
Verified sources
- LANL Scholars Official Websitelanlscholars.orgofficial
About the provider
The LANL Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 1998, focused on educational excellence in Northern New Mexico. It has awarded over $15 million in scholarships to nearly 3,000 students and supports various educational initiatives.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the LANL Foundation Four-Year Undergraduate Scholarship Program?
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It is a scholarship program provided by the LANL Foundation that offers financial aid and comprehensive support to high school seniors and current undergraduate students from Northern New Mexico.
What does the scholarship cover?
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The scholarship provides financial support for tuition, living expenses, and books. It also includes opportunities for paid summer internships, professional mentorship, and peer support.
What is the value of the scholarship?
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Scholarship awards range from ~USD 1,000 for a single year to ~USD 20,000 distributed over four years, depending on the specific scholarship awarded.
Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
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Eligible applicants include high school seniors and current undergraduate students from specific counties in Northern New Mexico (Rio Arriba, Sandoval, San Miguel, Santa Fe, Mora, Los Alamos, or Taos) or members of Northern New Mexico's tribes, nations, and pueblos. A minimum 3.25 GPA is required.
Which countries are eligible for this scholarship?
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This scholarship is exclusively for residents of the specified counties and tribal communities within Northern New Mexico, United States.
Which study levels are supported by this scholarship?
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The program supports students pursuing undergraduate (Bachelor's) degrees. It does not cover associate degrees, certifications, or professional trade credentials, which are covered by a different LANL Foundation scholarship.
What is the application deadline for the next cycle?
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The application deadline for the 2026-2027 academic year is January 10, 2027.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
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You must complete an online application through the official LANL Scholars website, submitting all required essays, letters of recommendation, and academic transcripts by the deadline.
What documents are required for the application?
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Required documents include the online application form, two letters of recommendation (one academic), short essays addressing goals, leadership, and service, and official academic transcripts showing a minimum 3.25 GPA.
How are scholarship recipients selected?
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A committee of volunteer reviewers assesses applications and matches students with over 30 unique scholarship opportunities based on their interests, backgrounds, experiences, and goals. Students from underrepresented backgrounds are particularly encouraged.
What is the duration of the scholarship and can it be renewed?
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The scholarships are awarded for up to four years, with annual amounts ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, totaling up to $20,000. Continued eligibility typically depends on maintaining academic standards.
Where can I confirm the most current details about the scholarship?
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For the most current and definitive information regarding the LANL Foundation Four-Year Undergraduate Scholarship, please visit the official LANL Scholars website at lanlscholars.org.