Selection FAQs

Do students have to hold an elected office to be considered a leader?

No. Leadership is broadly defined in the Morehead-Cain selection process. Successful candidates have a positive, significant, and lasting impact on their school and/or community, and are able to reflect upon and discuss what they learn from their leadership experiences.

How can we be sure our nominees fulfill the “Scholarship” criterion?

Successful candidates generally come from the top 10% of their class. There is no minimum GPA requirement or SAT score, but nominees should be competitive candidates for admission to selective universities. Successful candidates are high-achieving students, take a rigorous course load, are engaged in a broad course of study, and are curious, gifted scholars. Being valedictorian or salutatorian is not a requirement.

Can Morehead-Cain nominees apply to other universities?

Yes. Morehead-Cain nominees may apply to any other university or program on a non-binding basis. If selected as a Morehead-Cain Scholarship recipient, students must accept or decline the Scholarship in mid-April.

Can Morehead-Cain nominees apply early action (non-binding) to another university?

Yes.

Does UNC have to be the student’s first choice for college in order to be nominated for the Morehead-Cain?

Absolutely not! The Morehead-Cain Foundation encourages school nominating committees to nominate students who are the best fit for the Morehead-Cain Program, regardless of the students' interest in UNC. This is a fundamental aspect of the Foundation’s philosophy and the Morehead-Cain competition.