Prospective Students

The Scholarship

Individuals selected to participate in PLA will receive a scholarship up to the cost of in-state instructional and general fees, for each year of eligibility. All monies must be applied directly to University charges. No refunds will be dispersed from PLA.

The Scholarship is renewable for a maximum of eight semesters of full-time enrollment (12-18 hours/semester). The Scholarship is only applied during fall and spring semesters.

Admission Requirements

• Be accepted as a Bowling Green State University student prior to the PLA application deadline
• Completed application to the Sidney A. Ribeau President’s Leadership Academy by stipulated deadline 
• Complete two essays on selected leadership topics
  
• Demonstrate leadership in high school and/or the community
  
• Demonstrate community engagement and/or service
  
• BGSU recommends that you file the 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) when the U.S. Department of Education opens the FAFSA to the public on Dec. 1.
• Selected candidates must complete an on-campus interview
• Successfully complete the Sidney A. Ribeau President’s Leadership Academy Summer Program
• Only current high school seniors are eligible to apply. Applicants must graduate from high school by June 2025.

Objectives

• Prepare students to lead with integrity at BGSU and beyond
• Provide an environment with both academic and co-curricular components challenging students to think critically and reason insightfully
• Encourage passionate and talented servant leadership
• Provide access to BGSU faculty and staff
• Create network of people from diverse corporate, government, and nonprofit organizations to promote leadership education

Benefits

• Four-year scholarship up to cost of in-state tuition
• Directed leadership development
• Academic, social, and service experiences outside of the classroom
• Increased interaction with BGSU students, faculty, and staff
• Understanding and appreciation for diversity