The John B. Ervin Scholars Program was founded on four pillars—academic excellence, leadership, community service, and diversity. All our scholars are expected to exemplify these ideals to be competitive for this program.

Ervin Scholars may receive full-tuition scholarships with a $2,500 stipend or partial-tuition scholarships. The scholarship is renewed each year for the duration of the degree program, provided you progress academically and uphold the high standards of character required of scholars.

If selected as an Ervin Scholar, students will participate in variety of opportunities as part of the program, including a special orientation to WashU, meetings with university and community leaders, academic support and advising, and events with other Ervin Scholars and the program’s administrators. Ervin Scholars are also expected to engage in organizations and activities on campus, and in service projects in the community.

For more information, visit the John B Ervin Scholars Program website.

Eligibility

The Ervin Scholars Program is open to students applying to any undergraduate division. Only U.S. Citizens, permanent residents, and undocumented or DACA students living in the U.S.⁠ for the Ervin Scholars Program.

Interviews for Finalists

Finalists will be notified by the end of February and invited to a virtual interview. Finalists must attend the interview to remain eligible.

To apply

  • Submit an application for admission to the Class of 2029.
  • Write a short answer (maximum 100 words) on the following topic:
    Dr. John B. Ervin was a nationally renowned Black educator and the first African American Dean at Washington University in St. Louis. Reflecting on his biography and the history and legacy of the Ervin Program, share a specific example of how you have taken action to champion diversity in your own life or community.
    • If you’re submitting the Common Application, you can find the required short answer question in the Writing Supplement section.
    • If you’re submitting the Coalition Application, you will complete the short answer question in the WashU Pathway, after you’ve submitted your profile and the Washington University-specific questions.
  • In addition to the required short-answer question, we highly recommend you complete our optional Writing Supplement.
  • The scholarship committees will review the required counselor and teacher letters of recommendation submitted with your Common or Coalition Application. You may submit an optional third letter of recommendation from someone who can speak to your contributions and commitment to community.

Deadlines

All applications must be submitted by January 2, 2025.

John B. Ervin

The story of Dr. John B. Ervin is one of achievement and determination in the face of discrimination. Dr. Ervin was a nationally renowned black educator, scholar, and author who committed his life to the education of all people. In 1968, he became the first African-American dean of the School of Continuing Education at Washington University. He was also very involved with the St. Louis community, holding leadership positions on boards of numerous organizations and foundations. As a beloved member of the WashU community, Dr. Ervin is best remembered for his commitment to excellence, his engagement with the community, and his efforts to bring diverse people together to heal divisions among them.