Application Instructions

Apply for the Johnson Scholarship

Via Common App / Coalition App

Students who wish to be considered for a Johnson Scholarship — or any Washington and Lee merit-based scholarship — must submit a complete Common App or Coalition Application, including the additional Johnson Scholarship application essay, no later than December 1. All Johnson Scholarship application instructions are included in W&L's section of these applications.

It is not necessary to apply under W&L's binding Early Decision I plan to be considered for the Johnson Scholarship or other merit-based awards.

Finalists for the Johnson Scholarship will be selected based on academic achievement and demonstrated leadership. They will be judged on their potential to contribute to the intellectual and civic life of the W&L campus and of the world at large in years to come. Writing samples, teacher recommendations, and records of leadership, citizenship, and involvement in non-academic activities will be weighed.

A complete application consists of:

• A complete Common App or Coalition Application, including the Johnson Scholarship Application essay
• An official copy of your high school transcript
• Self-reported or official scores from the SAT or ACT (optional for the Class of 2028)
• Two teacher recommendations
• One school counselor recommendation and secondary school form

Via QuestBridge

QuestBridge finalists are automatically considered for the Johnson Scholarship, provided they forward their QuestBridge application to W&L. If they wish, finalists may submit the Johnson Scholarship essay, but it is not required.

QuestBridge non-finalists are invited to apply for the Johnson Scholarship but are not automatically considered. Non-finalists must forward the QuestBridge application to W&L and complete the Johnson Scholarship application supplement by Jan. 1. Non-finalists will be directed to the application supplement after forwarding their QuestBridge application.