The Missouri State debate program offers numerous scholarship opportunities, almost every member of the team has some form of scholarship. These are awarded either by semester or yearly and are up to the coaches' discretion. Scholarships are awarded based upon expected success on the Missouri State program. Particular concerns include research skills, work ethic, reliability, collegiality, and scholaristic ability. Types of scholarships include:
* Regents Scholarships ($2000/year)
* Out of State Fee Waivers
* Variable Cash Awards
In addition to these skill based scholarships, many team members avail themselves of additional academic scholarships through the University's financial aid department. These scholarships are both need based and merit based. Students are encouraged to contact the University and apply for these scholarships as well. Most require application by March 1; however, some have earlier deadlines. For example, the full-ride Presidential Scholarship has an application deadline of January 15, and the full-tuition Multicultural Leadership Scholarship has a Feb 8 deadline.
Scholarship form: Two Versions
Online Version: We would prefer that students use this form, which is now enabled for fall 2008 applications. In addition to completing the online form, you are encouraged to send other supporting materials to help us assess the probability that you will thrive in our program. Such useful materials could include:
1. Letters of Recommendation - from high school coach(es) or summer lab instructor(s).
2. Completed files - examples of files that you have assembled, in whole or in large part. If others helped assemble the file, please tell us your role.
3. Video of you debating - whether in a camp round, practice round, or tournament round. Any format is fine (digital, VHS) - just help us make sure we can look at it.
We are willing to consider applications without all of these materials, but applicants - particularly those who haven't worked with us at a summer camp are encouraged to support material to make us more familiar with you.
Backup Option: Should be downloaded, printed, filled out and mailed back to:
Dr. Eric Morris (Director of Forensics)
Debate, Department of Communication Craig 375
Missouri State University
901 S. National
Springfield, MO 65897
Students are still eligible for debate scholarships no matter how many other scholarships they have received from the University or other outside sources (although the university does have a 'cap' on scholarships/financial aid, the cap is well above tuition & housing costs). However, Missouri State University scholarship monies are only available to those recruited here by scholarship (e.g. receiving a scholarship in their first semester on campus).
We begin reviewing scholarships around April 1 for the following fall semester, so submitting your application by that deadline is important to assure full consideration. We make offers in writing, and those offers are intended to be renewable if you comply with scholarship expectations.