University extends application deadline for Mirabeau Scholarships

12/8/2008
Due to the continuing impact of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, the application deadline for Lamar University’s prestigious Mirabeau Scholarships as been extended to Feb. 27, officials said recently. Prospective freshmen who wish to apply for these valuable scholarships at Lamar should note the extended deadline, said Stephen Doblin, provost and vice president for academic affairs.

“The Mirabeau Scholarship is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships we offer,” Doblin said. “Mirabeau Scholars are held to a higher level of academic performance because these students are among our best and brightest.”

Each scholarship carries a value of $15,000 per year for four years; a total of $60,000. In addition, any scholarships or awards the student receives from sources independent of the university are applied to their account and used first, allowing students to use the Mirabeau funds for other expenses, such as supplies and travel related to undergraduate research and creative activity, the purchase of computers, and/or attendance at summer school, Doblin said.

“The Mirabeau scholarship is not tied to a specific major,” Doblin said. “For example, if a student enters Lamar University as a chemical engineering major and then changes their major to music, they don’t lose their scholarship.”

With complete tuition, room and board assistance, plus a stipend for books and supplies, the financial benefits to the students are obvious. Currently, 45 students are attending Lamar as Mirabeau Scholars, and their average SAT score (math + critical reading) is approximately 1350,” Doblin said.

Mirabeau Scholarships are awarded to outstanding high school students who have met the rigorous requirements. To be considered for this scholarship, a student must have achieved an SAT score of 1250 or higher (math + critical reading) or a composite ACT score of at least 28, and demonstrated excellence in prior academic work. In addition, documented excellence in a variety of leadership, service, and/or creative endeavors is expected. Candidates submit a letter of application, personal statement, resume, letters of recommendation, and original transcripts, and are interviewed by a faculty committee in the college of intended major.

To maintain the scholarship, Scholars must maintain a 3.5 GPA, participate in the University Honors Program, live on campus in Cardinal Village, and be involved in one or more of the following: student leadership, student government, Lamar Ambassadors, peer advisors or participate in undergraduate research.

More information on the Mirabeau Scholars program is available on the Web at lamar.edu/mirabeauscholars. To learn more about Lamar University, visit lamar.edu on the Web or call (409) 880-8888 for information on admissions.