Burchard Scholars Program

Apply online to become a Burchard Scholar. Your application must include the following materials:

• Curriculum vitae or résumé.
• List of HASS classes you have taken at MIT.
• A letter of recommendation from a faculty member who has taught you in a HASS course. The letter is due by the application deadline – Nov. 22, 2024.
• An unofficial MIT transcript.
• An essay of less than 500 words. You can choose from any of the following topics:
  • If you could require every incoming MIT student to read one book, or contemplate one work of art, or listen to one piece of music, what would it be and why?
  • Write about an experience in which you encountered a tension between personal freedom and community standards. Discuss the experience and the underlying issues, how you dealt with the tension, and whether or not there was a satisfactory resolution.

You can access the application here.

Note on the application: after you create an account and log in, you’ll see a generic listing of ‘SHASS Awards’.   Don’t worry, you’re in the right place.  Click to ‘Start New Application’ and when it comes time to select the fund that you are applying for, choose “Burchard Scholars” in the dropdown list.

Applications will not be considered until the recommendation letter has been received.

See Important Dates for when the online application closes.

If you have questions about the award or how to apply, email a member of the Burchard Committee for support.