Morehead-Cain Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Morehead-Cain

We are on the hunt for individuals who possess the power to motivate, invigorate, and encourage others to make a difference. What kind of leader do you aspire to become? Are you prepared to leave your imprint on the Morehead-Cain legacy?

Could you be the next Morehead-Cain?

Morehead-Cains are part of an exclusive group that comprehends the commitment required for excellence. They have shown a passion for utilizing their talents and skills to their maximum potential. Their hard work has naturally led to success, while failure has spurred them to take the lead and devise new strategies.

However, being a Morehead-Cain signifies more than just accomplishments. They possess a unique set of traits that foster both external and internal growth.

Criteria for Selection

We are looking for students who exemplify our four cornerstones: leadership, character, scholarship, and physical vigor. But what do these terms truly imply, and how can you determine if the Morehead-Cain is the right fit for you?

Leadership: You are a catalyst. You make things happen.

You motivate, invigorate, and encourage others to collaborate and make a difference. Leadership for you is not about the titles you've held or the roles you've played, but about bravery and taking action.

Character: Bravery, humility, and honesty.

Bravery, humility, honesty, maturity, perseverance, self-awareness, generosity, and empathy—these are the fundamental values of the Morehead-Cain community. You acknowledge that you are in a constant state of growth and learning.

Scholarship: You seize every opportunity to learn.

You flourish in a challenging academic setting, while also contributing to your community in other ways. You are prepared to fully utilize UNC’s academic prowess.

Physical Vigor: You have shown a consistent dedication to fitness and wellness.

You appreciate the benefits—collaboration, sportsmanship, discipline, endurance, and persistence—that come from preparing for and participating in competitions and performances.

A Morehead-Cain is:

Intelligent: Stimulated by ideas, reflective, curious, not solely defined by grades and test scores.

Team-Oriented: Excels in a team setting, supportive, generous, values humanity, listens, and compromises.

Self-Aware: Aware of personal strengths and weaknesses, receptive to criticism, accountable.

Courageous: Perseveres in the face of adversity, an adventurer, welcomes challenging experiences.

Intentional: Leads with conviction and honesty, translates plans into actions, follows through.

Compassionate: Connected to others, cares about the world, shows compassion and gratitude.

Optimistic: Positive and cheerful, has a sense of humor, resilient.

Innovative: Driven by intrinsic motivation, authentic, seeks creative solutions, possesses an entrepreneurial spirit.

Key Dates & Deadlines

The application process for the Morehead-Cain Class of 2030 will commence on August 15, 2025. Please revisit this page for updates on deadlines and crucial dates.

October 1: Deadline for all application materials

Mid-December: Semifinalist notifications sent to all applicants

Mid-December: Video interviews for semifinalists

Mid-January 2026: Finalist notifications sent to applicants

January to February 2026: Finalist and Alumni Connection Experience (FACE)

March 2026: Morehead-Cain Final Selection Experience

April 2026: Deadline for recipients to accept the Morehead-Cain Scholarship