Undergraduate Scholarships

Michael and Margaret Ruehling Undergraduate Public Policy Scholarship 

This scholarship is available due to the generosity and commitment to public service of Mr. Michael Ruehling, retired government and government relations professional, UK alum, and member of the Martin School Board of Visitors. The Ruehling Scholarship will be awarded to incoming freshman only. This award is non-renewable.

Award Criteria

• Admitted as a primary Pre-Public Policy major
• Graduate from a Kentucky high school
• Demonstrated unmet financial need
• Minimum of 3.0 unweighted GPA
• Demonstrated engagement, interest and/or leadership in the field of public policy

Application Form

Martin School Undergraduate Scholarship

This award is for current and incoming full-time Public Policy students who have demonstrated financial need and experience in public service, advocacy, or leadership. 

Award Criteria

• Admitted or current pre-public policy or public policy major (primary major/degree)
• Demonstrated unmet financial need
• Minimum 3.0 unweighted high school, transfer, or cumulative UK GPA
• Experience in public service, advocacy, and/or leadership
• Desire to pursue a career in public service

Application Form

Martin School Emerging Leader Award 

In recognition of the Martin School’s partnerships with a high school youth-serving organizations, we will offer a limited number of financial awards for incoming Fall 2026 students who have held leadership positions in 4-H Youth Development, Beta Club, KY YMCA Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA) and KUNA, or Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). Students who have held state- or local-level leadership positions can note their involvement through the Ruehling and Martin School Undergraduate Scholarships applications above.  

Martin School Military Scholarship

The Martin School offers scholarships of $250 per semester for undergraduate public policy majors who are veterans or currently serving in the military. Undergraduate students who believe they qualify should contact Erin Newell.

This award is renewable for up to four years, which is the typical timeline for completing the bachelor's degree in public policy.