Matelich Scholarship FAQ

Matelich Scholarship applicants are strong leaders and are making an impact in their communities. They demonstrate a passion for leadership in a wide variety of areas, including community service, religious life, athletics, cultural organizations, student organizations, and more. Matelich Scholars are excited about making a difference and leading efforts for change.

Applicants for first-year admission can apply to be considered for the Lillis Foundation Scholarship, the Matelich Scholarship, or both.

To be considered for the Matelich Scholarship, candidates must submit the following by Dec. 15:

1. A complete application for admission to Puget Sound, which includes:
   • Common Application
   • A $60 Application Fee
   • School report (including official transcripts and a counselor evaluation)
   • A Teacher Evaluation
   • Official Test Score Report (SAT or ACT)
2. A complete Matelich Scholarship Application

Yes, if you are eligible, you can apply test-optional instead of submitting SAT or ACT scores for your admission application. However, standardized test scores are required for Matelich Scholarship consideration, even if you have applied as a Test-Optional Candidate. Please be assured that if you elect to be reviewed under our test-optional policy, your scores will used solely by the scholarship committee and will not be factored into the evaluation of your admission application.

Two Matelich scholarships are awarded each year.

We receive approximately 250 - 300 applications.

The Matelich Scholarship covers the cost of tuition, room, and board for up to four years of undergraduate education at the University of Puget Sound. First-year recipients may retain the award for up to three additional years of undergraduate study. Scholarship recipients provided that they:

• Maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.50 or higher or rank in the top quarter of their class. Students who lose eligibility for the scholarship for any reason may not apply for reinstatement.
• Demonstrate, in measureable ways, academic, professional, service, and leadership development.
• Exhibit consistent good judgment, discipline, and integrity in their pursuits and activities.
• Participate with the growing and supportive cohort of Matelich Scholars and become involved with the selection process of future scholars.
• Write a report at the conclusion of each academic year detailing their work and pursuits of the prior year as they relate to their qualifications for the Matelich Scholarship and as they relate to their goals for growth for the year.

The university is committed to supporting Matelich Scholars during their enrollment at Puget Sound. The scholarship’s faculty advisor works with each scholar to ensure that she or he is pursuing and attaining the scholar’s ambitious academic, professional, and service/leadership goals. At the start of each semester, the advisor and scholar review goals for the period and set appropriate achievement benchmarks. The advisor reviews with each student his or her annual report before the beginning of the academic year.

Applicants will be notified of their status in February.

Finalists will interview with the Matelich Scholarship Committee, a committee made up of members of the faculty and staff. Finalists will stay overnight on campus with current students. They will attend classes and meet with members of the Puget Sound community (faculty, staff, and students).

In rare cases, the Matelich Scholarship Selection Committee can arrange an alternate interview date. However, it is preferred that finalists interview on the designated interview day.