Applications for the 2023-2024 academic year are now closed!
About the Scholarship
The Spirit of Old Main Scholarship is a newly established scholarship that provides funding opportunities for American Indian students at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke. This merit-based scholarship is awarded to competitive American Indian students and covers all unmet financial need for four years. To maintain eligibility, students must maintain full-time enrollment and a minimum GPA of 3.0.
*Room and board consist of on-campus double-occupancy housing ONLY.
Eligibility
- Be a North Carolina resident
- Identify as American Indian
- 3.0 GPA or higher
- Plan to enroll at UNCP as a freshman
- Plan to live on campus
Application Process
To apply, students must:
- Complete the application in the Braveassist Portal
- Upload all transcripts with the application (unofficial transcripts will be accepted)
- Have a FAFSA on file
- Provide proof of tribal affiliation and/or enrollment
- Provide a letter of recommendation from a high school counselor or teacher
Applicants must complete an interview with the selection committee. Semi-finalists will be invited to attend an on-campus event in late March.
Deadline
Applications and all related materials must be received by the deadline of February 28, 2023. Applications will only be reviewed after receipt of all requested materials (including the letter of recommendation).
Questions
If you have questions, please contact Dr. Ashley McMillan at 910.775.4782 or ashley.mcmillan@uncp.edu.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I apply for the scholarship if I live locally and don't plan to stay on campus?
Unfortunately, students must live on campus during their freshman year in order to qualify for this scholarship.
Will I be eligible to get this scholarship every year?
As long as recipients maintain a 3.0 GPA and full-time enrollment, they will be eligible for this scholarship for 4 years.
I am not currently enrolled in my tribe. Can I still apply?
Yes, students are not required to be currently enrolled in their tribe, but they must be able to provide proof of tribal affiliation. Applicants are encouraged to contact their tribe to provide this documentation.
Can I submit more than one letter of recommendation?
While the application only requires one letter of recommendation, applicants are welcome to submit more than one if they feel it will strengthen their application.
I am transferring to UNCP, but I will not be a freshman. Can I apply?
Unfortunately, applicants must be a freshman to be eligible for this scholarship.
Congratulations to the inaugural cohort of Spirit of Old Main Scholars!

Sydney Brooks

Faith Jacobs

Rakyah Jacobs
