Community and support for high-achieving students

While fostering achievement, personal growth, and a commitment to service, the Norman Brown Leadership Scholars Program aims to:

• Attract high-achieving students from historically underserved communities to IU Indianapolis.
• Support student success through academic achievement, recognition, and encouragement.
• Provide programs that cultivate leadership skills, community involvement, and understanding of different perspectives.
• Offer guidance and resources to promote timely graduation and strong career readiness.

Students selected for the program as first-time, incoming freshmen are awarded $5,000 in tuition and $8,000 in on-campus housing support per academic year, renewable up to 8 semesters. Students selected as transfer or current students can receive $5,000 in tuition and $5,000 in on-campus housing support per academic year.

Created in 1988 by Norman Brown, former associate director of admissions, the program was renamed in Brown’s honor in 2005 to recognize his contributions to the IU Indianapolis community and surrounding areas.

To be considered for the scholarship, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale
• Meet IU Indianapolis regular admission requirements

Students can apply as incoming first-year students, transfer students, or current IU Indianapolis students.

If applying as a transfer or current student, keep in mind these additional eligibility criteria:

• Enrolled full-time at IU Indianapolis
• (Preferred) have at least two full academic years remaining at IU Indianapolis, starting from the year in which the award is granted; this ensures scholars have ample time to engage with the program’s opportunities

Apply for the Norman Brown Leadership Scholars through the IU Scholarship Portal.

1. Submit the IU General Scholarship Application for the upcoming academic year.
2. Search the portal for Norman Brown Scholars under “Opportunities”.
3. Complete the Norman Brown Scholarship application.

The deadline to apply is February 15 at 11:59 p.m.

First-year student applications open in October, and transfer and current student applications open in January. All applications are for fall semester start dates. Norman Brown Scholars interested in using their housing award will also need to apply for on-campus housing.

As a Norman Brown Scholar, you’ll find a structured framework of support for achieving your academic, personal, and professional aspirations.

We’ll support you in meeting these program expectations:

• Academic excellence: Maintain a high level of academic performance, actively using campus resources such as tutoring, mentoring, and faculty engagement to ensure success.
• Leadership development: Engage in leadership training, workshops, and service-learning projects that enhance your ability to lead effectively within your community and professional field.
• Civic engagement: Contribute to your community through volunteerism, advocacy, and outreach initiatives while fostering a sense of social responsibility.
• Post-baccalaureate preparation: Participate in program opportunities for career guidance, graduate school preparation, networking, and professional development that will ensure you transition successfully into your chosen career path or continued education.

Through mentorship, financial assistance, and tailored enrichment activities, the Norman Brown Leadership Scholars Program empowers you to excel academically, lead with confidence, and make a meaningful impact beyond your undergraduate years.