Mikkelson Foundation Student Scholarship Program

Scholarship Sponsored by Mikkelson Foundation

Overview This scholarship is for strong science and math students planning to study engineering, mathematics, or the natural sciences. Each year the Mikkelson Foundation recognizes an outstanding graduating senior from Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, or New Mexico who has been admitted to an accredited college or university. In 2026 the Foundation will award five $5,000 scholarships. Each award may be renewed for up to four years as long as the recipient remains a student in good standing. Who should apply You should apply if you: - Graduate from a high school in CO, WY, MT, ID, or NM in 2026 - Will begin full-time undergraduate study in the fall of 2026 at a four‑year accredited college or university - Plan to major in engineering, mathematics, or a physical/biological science - Have at least a 3.7 unweighted GPA - Have at least a 1200 SAT (cumulative) or a 28 ACT (composite) Important dates and amount - Application deadline (received by): April 10, 2026. The selection process begins the morning of April 11, so this deadline is absolute. - Number of awards in 2026: five - Award amount: $5,000 each (renewable up to four years) Application checklist (everything must be received by April 10) 1. Official, complete high school transcript. 2. Copies of national standardized test scores (if not on the transcript). 3. Three reference letters from teachers, counselors, employers, or activity directors. Tell your recommenders the deadline — these must arrive by April 10. 4. Completed application form (filled out by the student). 5. An original personal essay (start early — good essays take time). Mailing instructions All application materials must be mailed to: The Mikkelson Foundation P.O. Box 768 Monument, CO 80132-0768 Note: Overnight carriers do not deliver to P.O. boxes; the Foundation accepts only mail at the P.O. Box. Practical tips from a teacher - Start early. Give yourself time to draft and revise your essay until it says exactly what you intend. - Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic potential in math/science. Provide them with your resume or a list of accomplishments and deadlines. - Respect recommenders’ time — ask politely, ask early, and send a reminder if needed. - Complete every field on the application form and put the most important information where the committee will see it first. - You may attach supplementary materials, but the committee will not hunt for information. Make it easy for them to judge your application. - Consider mailing early and keeping tracking information so you know your package arrived. If you want, bring a draft of your essay or your application to me (or another teacher/counselor) for feedback well before the deadline. Good preparation makes a big difference.