The John M. Belk Scholarship is Davidson's flagship award.

The program is built around our belief that, as a Belk Scholar, you possess unique talents that should be recognized and nurtured. The Belk Scholarship will provide you comprehensive funding (tuition, fees, housing, and food) plus special opportunity stipends that allow you great flexibility in the on- and off-campus opportunities you choose to explore. Those experiences, paired with our academic programs, will deepen your intellect, maturity, and global understanding. Thanks to the generosity of the John M. Belk Educational Endowment, 32 Belk Scholars are currently enrolled at Davidson (eight Belk Scholars named in each entering class).

Nomination & Selection Process

School counselors, principals/heads of school, or college access program staff may nominate up to two candidates per year. Our admission staff may also nominate students based on the strength of their application for admission. Become familiar with our nomination & selection process, including our deadlines, to nominate someone.

Learn About the Nomination & Selection Process

What Defines a Belk Scholar?

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Challenge Seekers

Embrace a multi-dimensional lifestyle, giving rich evidence of intellectual depth and academic achievement, as well as accomplishment in other meaningful activities.

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Intellectual Explorers

Exude an eagerness to learn within every facet of life. Generate & engage with ideas seriously, striving to enrich their own understanding, as well as that of others.

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Servant Leaders

Maintain strength of character, including confidence and humility, and a tremendous regard for collaboration.

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Change Agents

Act as catalysts for 黑社区 improvement, making unique connections in order to bring about positive change.