Morehead-Cain Scholarship

We seek driven, courageous, and inquisitive leaders eager to embrace new and unknown experiences. In return, we provide life-changing opportunities. We offer you the freedom to chart your own course.

We set your potential free.

Are you willing to commit yourself to superior effort, industry, and responsibility? Are you ready to add your mark to the Morehead-Cain legacy? The benefits of making such a commitment are practically limitless.

Who We Are

The first merit scholarship program established in the United States. Founded at the first public university in the United States. The first to envision and implement a strategic summer enrichment program and, most recently, the first to designate a fund for discovery for each of our scholars. Established in 1945 and inspired by the Rhodes Scholarship at Oxford University, the Morehead-Cain provides an undergraduate experience without peer.

Four years, four summers-fully funded. A world-class education. Immersion in a vibrant student body. Experienced advisors to help introduce the scholars' passion and potential to a world of opportunity. Exclusive enrichment and networking opportunities-indeed a lifetime connection-with the unparalleled community of Morehead-Cains across the globe.

Scholars bring the potential; we set it free. We fund. We connect. We encourage. On occasion we question. Sometimes we guide. Frequently we get out of the way. What we don't do is dictate. The Morehead-Cain is a program proven to develop leaders within a structure that is intentionally nimble. We provide a net, then let scholars go, giving them the trust and freedom to pursue their own interests, mine their own potential, determine their own sphere of influence, and make their own impact.

Prospective Scholars

We're looking for leaders with an ability to influence, energize, and inspire others to make an impact. We seek courage, humility, integrity, and perseverance. And an authentic love of learning and sharing newfound knowledge and inspiration with others.

To apply for the Morehead-Cain, you must be:

A) ON TRACK TO GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL IN THE SPRING

B) A COMPETITIVE APPLICANT TO THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL

C) NOMINATED BY YOUR HIGH SCHOOL OR AN AFFILIATE PROGRAM, OR APPLYING DIRECTLY