FAQ's

Goldwater

Q: Can students combine undergraduate majors that may include disciplines not normally allowed by the Goldwater Scholarship Program?  Examples might include Mathematics/Economics or Biology/Psychology.

A: Yes, with some limitiations.  The Goldwater application must be a research emphasis in mathematics, science, or engineering.  Students who seek double majors should explain how the non-science major will be incorporated into and enhance the science research career.

Q: Is there one area of the Goldwater application that is more important than others?

A: No.  The evaluation of all Goldwater nominees places equal emphasis on academic achievement, progress toward research goals, the research essay, and letters of recommendation.

Q: Is it a requirement that Goldwater nominees complete a research project before applying?

A: No.  Research experience is important to verify that nominees are making progress toward a research career.  Juniors are more successful than sophomores in the Goldwater scholarship review process, in part, because of greater research opportunities and experience.  However, a completed research project is not a requirement for a successful application.