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general | August 03, 2026

How competitive is the Morehead-Cain scholarship?

Selection process. The selection process for the Morehead-Cain is extremely rigorous, with only three percent of each year’s nominees selected as Morehead-Cain Scholars.

How prestigious is Morehead-Cain?

Selection criteria for the Morehead-Cain are leadership, moral force of character, academic achievement, and physical vigor. Since 2000, 14 Morehead-Cain Scholars have won Rhodes Scholarships to England’s Oxford University, one of the world’s most competitive and prestigious awards for graduate study.

Can I apply to both Morehead-Cain and Robertson?

UNC-Chapel Hill hosts two independent merit scholarship programs: the Morehead-Cain and the Robertson. A student can be considered for both scholarships at the same time.

How much is the Morehead-Cain scholarship worth?

Scholars will also receive a laptop computer and participate in summer enrichment programs. The total value of the scholarship is approximately $80,000 for in-state students and $140,000 for out-of-state students. The total dollars awarded for this scholarship is $110,000.

Do you have to be nominated for Morehead-Cain?

Things you should know: An out-of-state school must be an official nominating school of the Morehead-Cain Foundation to put forward students for the scholarship. Out-of-state nominating schools may nominate two seniors each year for the scholarship. Are you a nominating school?

How many people are selected for Morehead-Cain?

You’ll join approximately 160 finalists in learning about the Morehead-Cain Program and the opportunities it offers, discovering the academic rigor of UNC-Chapel Hill, and developing the beginnings of lifelong friendships.

How many Morehead-Cain scholars are there?

More than 275 Morehead-Cain Scholars study on campus, making outstanding contributions across the full range of University life.

How many Morehead-Cain finalists are there?

You’ll join approximately 160 finalists in learning about the Morehead-Cain Program and the opportunities it offers, discovering the academic rigor of UNC-Chapel Hill, and developing the beginnings of lifelong friendships. There is, of course, your final interview.

How many people get the Morehead-Cain?

Like the scholars, the more than 3,200 Morehead-Cain Alumni across the world are a diverse and distinguished group.

What do Morehead-Cain scholars do?

From researching food and agriculture industries in Iceland to examining the interrelationship between climate change and infectious diseases, Morehead-Cain Scholars have the resources to pursue educational opportunities wherever they may find them.

Is Morehead-Cain binding?

Yes. We ask only that students notify us as soon as possible if they’re admitted Early Decision and, if they are not admitted, that they not apply binding ED II.