Eligibility and Requirements

1. Be a graduating high school senior.
2. Be an individual from an underrepresented minority (black/African-American, American Indian, Mexican American, mainland Puerto Rican) or from an economically disadvantaged household. Income Guidelines: In general, 200% of U.S. Poverty Guidelines - Annual income for one person is less than $18,000; family of two is less than $25,000; family of four is less than $36,000
3. Must provide verification of household income
4. Be a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident
5. Be eligible to enroll in and attend a 4-year accredited U.S. college or university for the upcoming academic year with a full course of study (enrollment is verified in the Fall)
6. Have a minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or the equivalent)
7. Have a minimum new SAT score of 1500 (verbal + math + writing) or a minimum ACT score of 21
8. Must complete the online application
9. Must submit a 1,500 to 1,700 word essay (approximately 3 pages) on “The Influence of the History of African Americans in Ophthalmology on My Role in Improving Healthcare for African Americans and Others” using the book Breaking the Color Line in Medicine" by Lenworth N. Johnson, MD and O. C. Bobby Daniels, EdD as the primary reference source. The book is available in PDF format by clicking on the above link and can also be obtained from the library or internet.