“I feel very privileged to have this scholarship. Without it, I would've had to work full-time to pay for my education, and I probably wouldn't be attending SMCM. My family and I are forever grateful to God and the Landers Scholars for the opportunity.”
-Yodahe Mekonnen '25
About the Program
The Arthur E. Landers, Jr. and Hilda C. Landers Charitable Trust (Landers Trust) created this premier scholarship to provide fully funded (tuition, fees, room and board) four-year scholarships to students that are from low-income backgrounds and the first in their family to attend college or are underrepresented in higher education.
Through support from the Landers Trust and private donors, the Landers Scholars Scholarship accepts six first-year students a year, providing access to a top tier honors education that prepares them for multiple careers. This scholarship combines financial aid with first-year mentoring and community service opportunities to provide students with the support system and experiences necessary to help them transition to college and continue throughout their college career to successfully persist through graduation.
Application Process
Upon acceptance to St. Mary’s College of Maryland, students that meet the eligibility requirements are invited to apply.
The application process includes a short summary including extracurricular activities and community service experiences and a 500-word essay on how this scholarship will help the applicant pursue their higher education and career goals.
“The Landers Scholarship means everything to me. It was an honor to have received it. This scholarship gave me the chance to be able to afford and attend college as a first generation student. I am truly grateful!”
-Julie Guerrero '24
Eligibility
The Landers Scholars scholarships are awarded through an application process. Students that meet the eligibility requirements are invited to apply upon acceptance to St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
- Students with demonstrated high financial need (determined by FAFSA and Pell eligibility)
- Students with in-state residency with priority given to students from the Baltimore area
- Students willing to commit to one year of mentoring through a College program
- Students will complete a minimum of 12 hours of volunteering a year on and off campus
- Students willing to respect and embrace the St. Mary’s Way
The Landers Scholars scholarship supports the equivalent of eight academic semesters. In addition to the above criteria, students are expected to maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and complete no fewer than 12 credits per semester for them to receive continued scholarship support in subsequent years.