The Academic Scholar Award recognizes excellence in scholarly conduct, accomplishment, and contributions during the student's time at American Public University.
The award is given to one graduate and one undergraduate student from each academic school in the current graduating class. Each graduating class includes six conferrals: August 1, October 1, December 1, February 1, April 1, and June 1.
- Minimum GPA: 3.70 (undergraduate) and 3.90 (graduate)
- Have high levels of engagement and rapport with instructor and peers in the classroom
- Have consistent participation in discussion forums, etc.
- Have made an impact on peers and leadership at the University through co-curricular or service activities
- Additional leadership or scholarly achievements that can be documented by the nominator
- Nominations may be made by faculty, staff, students, alumni, and those familiar with the nominee’s work
- Nominees will be notified and asked to provide a narrative of no more than 250 words or a 2-minute video reflecting on their time at APU
- Top candidates in each academic school are presented to the University Provost for review
- The University Provost grants final approval
All materials are to be submitted in one complete packet on the award nomination form. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
- A complete nomination form
- A letter of recommendation from a faculty member. The letter must provide examples of how the student has made excellent contributions to the classroom by engaging with the content and/or leadership among their peers throughout the class. You may want to give your recommendation writer a summary of the award
- An example of a high-quality assignment from your studies, including faculty feedback
- Link to an online portfolio, link Portfolium (optional)
- A reflection of your time at APU. The reflection may be submitted as a narrative of no more than 250 words or a video of no more than two minutes
- Your current professional resume
- Top candidates in each academic school are presented to the Academic Awards Committee for review
- The University Provost grants final approval
- Award recipients will be honored during Commencement weekend, and should we have an in-person celebration, one-night accommodations and individual travel expenses to attend Commencement will be paid for by the University
- Award recipients receive a plaque and medallion to be worn at Commencement
- Award recipients are not required to attend Commencement to accept the award
Nominations for the 2025 awards cycle are now open until January 24, 2025. For additional information or questions, contact the University Awards Committee.