University of Mary Washington Undergraduate Science Fellowships 2026

The University of Mary Washington (UMW) in Fredericksburg, Virginia, has officially opened applications for Fall 2026 undergraduate admissions. Beginning August 1, 2025, students can apply through the Common Application or directly via the UMW admissions portal.

Students who apply by the Early Decision (November 1, 2025) or Early Action (November 15, 2025) deadlines will be prioritized for the prestigious Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program—a highly competitive fellowship offering significant financial support and exceptional research opportunities for science-focused undergraduates.

Degree Level

• Undergraduate

Available Subjects

The program welcomes students across multiple majors, with a strong emphasis on STEM disciplines, including:

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Environmental Science

• Computer Science

• Physics

• Mathematics

Additional details on available majors can be found on the official UMW website.

Fellowship Benefits

Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program

The fellowship was established through the largest gift in UMW history—over $36 million from Irene Piscopo Rodgers ’59, a pioneer in electron microscopy.

Each year, the program supports 15 first-year undergraduate students, offering:

• Substantial financial assistance

• Access to undergraduate research projects

• One-on-one faculty mentorship

• Participation in the UMW Summer Science Institute

Other UMW Scholarships and Financial Aid

UMW provides a wide range of scholarships and aid programs, including:

• Washington Scholars Program – Full-ride scholarship for Virginia students

• Alvey Scholars Program – Full-ride scholarship for out-of-state students

• UMW Tuition Promise – Covers full tuition for Virginia students eligible for Pell Grants

• Merit-Based and Departmental Scholarships – Awards across multiple academic disciplines

Notably, over 60% of incoming students apply early, and nearly all receive scholarships or financial aid.

Why Choose UMW?

The University of Mary Washington offers more than 100 majors, minors, and academic programs, with popular fields including psychology, business, communication and digital studies, education, and historic preservation.

Located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, UMW is ideally situated between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, providing students with unique opportunities in politics, history, and public policy.

National Recognition

• Ranked among the Best Undergraduate Business Schools (Poets&Quants 2025)

• Theatre program ranked in the Top 25 in the U.S. (Princeton Review 2025)

• Named in the Top 20 for Impact and Internships (Princeton Review Best Value Colleges 2025)

Eligibility

• Open to both domestic and international students

• Requirements vary by scholarship program (students should check the official UMW website for detailed criteria)

Application Procedure

Key Dates for Fall 2026 Admissions

• Early Decision (Binding): November 1, 2025

• Early Action (Non-Binding): November 15, 2025

• Regular Decision: February 1, 2026

• Transfer Deadlines:

  • Spring: October 15, 2025

  • Summer: March 1, 2026

  • Fall: April 1, 2026

Application Options:

• Common Application

• UMW Admissions Portal

Students interested in the Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program are strongly encouraged to apply early.

FAQs

1. What is the Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program?

It is a prestigious fellowship supporting 15 first-year undergraduates in STEM fields with funding, mentorship, and research opportunities.

2. Is the fellowship fully funded?

The Science Fellows Program offers partial funding but may be combined with other scholarships, such as the Alvey Scholars Program or Washington Scholars Program, which provide full-ride support.

3. Who can apply for the Science Fellows Program?

Both Virginia residents and out-of-state students, including international applicants, may apply.

4. Does UMW offer scholarships beyond the Science Fellows Program?

Yes. UMW provides multiple funding opportunities, including the Tuition Promise, merit-based scholarships, and departmental awards.

5. What are the deadlines for Fall 2026 admissions?

• Early Decision: November 1, 2025

• Early Action: November 15, 2025

• Regular Decision: February 1, 2026

6. What makes UMW unique?

UMW offers a close-knit academic community, nationally ranked programs, and a prime location near Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia.

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