How To Apply
Qualifications
- Graduating senior of a Texas high school or home school
- Acceptance to The University of Texas at Dallas (fall only)
- Demonstrate a strong record of academic achievement
- Exhibit a notable record of leadership and volunteerism
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) review – eligibility for need-based aid is not a requirement to receive the scholarship
- Adjusted gross income – typically below $120,000 (subject to a case-by-case review)
- U.S. Citizen or permanent resident
- Texas resident
Application Information
Deadline: Jan. 5 for students; Jan. 10 for recommendations and transcripts.
The application will be available in early September in your Galaxy/Orion portal. You should apply to UT Dallas first. You can begin drafting the essay questions below while awaiting admission from the University.
To access the application, go into your Galaxy portal, click on “Orion Student Center” under “My Menu” and “Orion Self-Service (Student)” in the middle of the page. Click the Terry Scholarship tile to find the application. View a more detailed set of instructions. Please email terryscholars@utdallas.edu with any questions or if you need access to the application.
In addition to the application, the following is required:
- Official copy of high school transcript (we are not able to access transcripts submitted to UT Dallas Admissions). Contact terryscholars@utdallas.edu if you cannot send an official transcript.
- One letter of recommendation (preferably from a high school teacher)
Short Answers
- Why have you chosen to apply to UT Dallas?
- Please list up to six universities to which you have applied or plan to apply (include UT Dallas).
- Why have you selected your major?
- What are your future goals and objectives? (include any educational or post-baccalaureate plans)
Two Essays
- Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? Please do not exceed 750 words.
- In approximately 500 words, describe an example of your leadership. Be sure to describe your actions and the actions of those around you and to explain what you accomplished.
More About You (fewer than 250 words each)
- What are two interesting things about you?
- What do you hope to accomplish at UT Dallas, academically and personally?
- Select two extracurricular activities you participate in and tell us why you participate.
- What service projects/organizations have you recently been involved with and how did you contribute?
- Many students apply for this scholarship and only approximately 20 receive it. Why are you a good candidate?
Other Important Information
- To avoid unforeseen delays, it is best to apply to UT Dallas by Dec. 1; you must be admitted to UT Dallas by Jan. 20 for consideration.
- You must submit a FAFSA by Jan. 20.
- If selected, you must apply for on-campus housing (scholars are required to live in the residence hall their first year).
- The four-year award is over $130,000 (encompassing Terry award and financial aid, if applicable).
Contact Us
Sheila Kelly
Director
972-883-6309
sheila.kelly@utdallas.edu
Cassie Cure
Assistant Director
972-883-4284
terryscholars@utdallas.edu
Terry Scholars at UT Dallas
The University of Texas at Dallas
800 W. Campbell Road, PHY 10
Richardson, TX 75080 – 3021
The office is located in the Physics Building (PHY).