Application Process & Eligibility

Empowered Scholars Application Form

Program Eligibility

Students interested in applying to become Empowered Scholars must:

• Plan to major in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, engineering, or forensic science; 
• Submit admission applications to both Loyola University Maryland and the Empowered Scholars program—and complete the FAFSA—by the February 1 deadline;
• Qualify as high-need, as determined by the Office of Financial Aid, based on the Student Aid Index and Pell Grant eligibility; and
• Be a U.S. citizen or national, a refugee admitted to the United States, or a lawful permanent resident.

Application Process

The Empowered Scholars Program application for the Class of 2030 is now open.

The application is separate from the Loyola University Maryland application. The process is:

1. Apply to Loyola using the Common Application: Interested students must first apply for admission to Loyola University Maryland as part of the first-year Class of 2030.
2. Apply to Empowered Scholars: After completing your Loyola University Maryland application, you will need to use your Applicant Status Portal login credentials sent to you via email to complete the online Empowered Scholars Program application.
3. Submit the FAFSA: Go to www.fafsa.gov to complete an electronic FAFSA, using Loyola’s FAFSA Code Number, 002078. (Learn more about completing the FAFSA)
4. Complete all by February 1: All of the above applications must be submitted by the February 1 deadline for consideration.

Selection Process

Selection for the Empowered Scholars Program will be based on the following criteria:

• • Academic Achievement
  • STEM Experience
  • Passion for STEM
  • Mathematical Readiness

The program will recruit two cohorts of students, beginning in Fall 2026 and Fall 2027.