Selection Process

Selections Timeline updated as of 09-20-2022

  • October 17, 2022 - Nomination Period Opens (LA, NY, DC)
  • November 18, 2022 - Deadline for Nominations (LA, NY, DC)
  • November 30, 2022 - Application Invitation Emailed to all Eligible Nominees
  • January 12, 2023 - Online Submission Deadline for Applications and all Application Materials
  • March 29, 2023* - All applicants notified of application status. Interview Finalists Notified via Email (LA, NY, DC)
  • April 25-26, 2023* - NY Finalist Interviews
  • May 9, 2023* - DC Finalist Interviews 
  • May 11, 2023* - 2023 NY Scholars Notified via Phone
  • May 16-18, 2023* - LA Finalist Interviews 
  • May 22, 2023* - 2023 DC Scholars Notified via Phone 
  • May 30, 2023* - 2023 NY/DC Scholars Publicly Announced
  • May 31, 2023* - 2023 LA Scholars Notified via Phone 
  • July 6, 2023* - 2023 LA Scholars Publicly Announced

 *Dates are subject to change

Selection Criteria

With the help of college counselors and other educators at high schools in Los Angeles County, New York City, and Washington D.C., the Milken Scholars Program identifies outstanding students who will graduate by June of 2023. These students are nominated for the Program based on the following criteria:

  • Minimum unweighted grade point average of 3.6 or 90 in all academic high school subject areas;
  • Active participation in community service activities;
  • A record of leadership;
  • Financial or Other Obstacles;
  • Admission to a four-year college or university prior to final selection; and
  • United States Citizenship, Permanent Residency, or DACA Recipient.

Students nominated by their college advisors to participate in the Program must complete a rigorous selection process that includes completion of a detailed application, as well as submission of letters of recommendation, high school transcripts, test score reports (if applicable), and a financial aid profile. Finalists are then selected and invited to interview.

*Please note that the 2023 Selection Cycle is Test-Optional: SAT or ACT score is not required to apply.*

Program Resources

Milken Scholars are eligible to receive a range of resources that includes:

  • An annual monetary recognition award of $2,000 for each of their four years of college;
  • Ongoing academic and career-related counseling;
  • Assistance with career-related experiences through internships and shadowing opportunities; and
  • A graduate fund, which assists students as they prepare for the world of work or graduate school.

Milken Scholars must commit to attend all annual program activities (expenses paid), including a three-day Summit, and maintain a 3.0 grade point average throughout their undergraduate college careers. Scholars are also encouraged to participate in community service activities in their home and/or school community.

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