About

History

Originally named Prestigious Scholarship Program, our office was housed in the honors college. In order to broaden our scope and create a more accessible and inclusive program, the name was changed to Nationally Competitive Scholarships and eventually moved to be housed under University College. The Office of Nationally Competitive Scholarships celebrated its 5 year anniversary in 2022!

Mission

The Office of Nationally Competitive Scholarships (NCS) supports Appalachian’s goal of fostering engaged, responsible global citizens. NCS achieves this by supporting students in the pursuit of funding to achieve their academic, professional, and personal goals. The office seeks and facilitates collaboration with key office and university stakeholders to promote a campus-wide culture of awareness of national and international award opportunities available to students.

Vision

Motivate students to develop skills through the awards application process, while mentoring them as they connect their background with their future goals to apply for nationally competitive awards.

Core Values

Integrity

We will treat all candidates with integrity and confidentiality in our relationships and approach to the scholarship process.

Collaboration

We will work together to promote our programs and protect our candidates’ best interests with all of the university community.

Respect

We will respect the profession and practice of advising for and administering competitive scholarships and fellowships.

Fairness

We have an obligation to treat candidates and each other fairly, impartially, and in a non-discriminatory manner.

See National Association of Fellowship Advising Code of Ethics for further guidelines on the expectations our office will adhere to and encourage in students, colleagues, and stakeholders.

National Association of Fellowship Advisors

The Office of Nationally Competitive Scholarships is a member of the National Association of Fellowship Advisors (NAFA). Learn more about NAFA by visiting their website. Our office adheres to the Code of Ethics outlined by this organization.