Scholarship Criteria

Student applications are evaluated on academic achievement, leadership potential, and the ability to apply critical thinking skills. Student applicants with a desire to pursue a degree in a science-related field or other fields important to the future success of Northern New Mexico will be given priority consideration for Platinum and Gold awards.

Academic Achievement and Potential
Students are expected to have challenged themselves as fully as their school allows in both quantity and quality of courses selected. Academic transcripts and standardized test scores will provide the basis for evaluation of applicants.

Leadership Potential
The applicant’s leadership potential, based on demonstrated initiative and responsibility, is evaluated on the basis of letters of recommendation, a personal interview, and other components of the application. Evaluation of the applicant’s leadership potential will consider participation in extracurricular activities at school and/or in the community. Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated leadership experience.

Ability to Apply Critical Thinking Skills
The applicant’s ability to apply critical thinking skills, including demonstrated problem-solving skills, is evaluated based on two letters of recommendation, an essay, and other components of the application. Applicants should provide two letters of recommendation: one primarily addressing community service/extracurricular activities and one primarily addressing academic achievement.

Financial Need
LAESF provides merit-based scholarships, however, to gain a true gauge of a student’s ability, the Advisory Committee does take into consideration the financial background and life challenges of each applicant. It is strongly recommended that all applicants address the financial need and special circumstances questions in the application.