51¶ÌÊÓƵ

Program Eligibility

Students interested in applying to become Empowered Scholars must:

• Plan to major in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, engineering, or forensic science; 
• Submit admission applications to both 51¶ÌÊÓƵ and the Empowered Scholars program—and complete the FAFSA—by the December 15 Early Action deadline or the February 1 Regular Decision deadline;
• Qualify as high-need, as determined by the Office of Financial Aid, based on the Student Aid Index and Pell Grant eligibility; and
• Be a U.S. citizen or national, a refugee admitted to the United States, or a lawful permanent resident.

Application Process

The  is now open.

The application is separate from the 51¶ÌÊÓƵ application. The process is:

1. Apply to 51¶ÌÊÓƵ using the Common Application: Interested students must first apply for admission to 51¶ÌÊÓƵ as part of the first-year Class of 2031.
2. Apply to Empowered Scholars: After completing your 51¶ÌÊÓƵ application, you will need to use your Applicant Status Portal login credentials sent to you via email to complete the online .
3. Submit the FAFSA: Go to  to complete an electronic FAFSA, using Loyola’s FAFSA Code Number, 002078. (Learn more about completing the FAFSA)
4. Complete all of the above by:
   1. Early Action: December 15
   2. Regular Decision: February 1

Selection Process

Selection for the Empowered Scholars Program will be based on the following criteria:

• • Academic Achievement
  • STEM Experience
  • Passion for STEM
  • Mathematical Readiness

The program will recruit two cohorts of students: one in Fall 2026 and one in Fall 2027.