Become a UNK Teacher Scholar

If you’re a first-time freshman planning to pursue a career in teacher education, the UNK Teacher Scholars program can help you build a strong foundation for your future. As a Teacher Scholar, you’ll join the Education Learning Community, where you’ll learn alongside other students who are passionate about becoming teachers. You’ll have access to mentorship, academic support, hands-on experiences in K-12 schools, and a community of peers and educators who want to see you succeed. Deadline to apply is March 1.

Why Join the UNK Teacher Scholars Program?

• Receive $2,000 in financial support: Students in the program receive $1,000 in a housing waiver and $1,000 in additional scholarships.
• Learn together: Take important education courses as a cohort and build connections with fellow future teachers.
• Build your community: Participate in leadership workshops, faculty chats, social activities, enhanced drop-in spaces and other opportunities to connect.
• Connect with educators: Experience a virtual learning community of UNK students and faculty with Nebraska K-12 teachers and administrators.
• Gain experience early: Engage with K-12 schools beginning your freshman year, growing from observation to taking on full classroom responsibilities as you progress through your program.
• Live with other future teachers: Teacher Scholars live on the second floor of Martin Hall, giving you a built-in network of peers where you live and learn.

Who Can Apply?

• You are a high school student who has been admitted to the University of Nebraska at Kearney for the 2027-2028 academic year.
• You plan to pursue a degree in teacher education.
• You have a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher OR have a composite ACT score of 22+ OR SAT score of 1140+ OR rank in the top 25% of your high school graduating class.

How to Apply

1. Apply to UNK if you haven’t. You must be admitted to UNK to be eligible.
2. Complete the Admitted Incoming Freshman Scholarship Application in your MyBlue by the March 1 deadline.
3. Complete the UNK Teacher Scholars Application by the March 1 deadline.

When you submit the Admitted Incoming Freshman Scholarship Application March 1, you may be eligible for more scholarships. This includes an additional $24,000 in Teacher Education Scholarships. Review the Freshmen Financial Aid Checklist. Take every opportunity to fund your education!