Truman awards 12 full scholarships to outstanding scholars and leaders. The renewable awards, in honor of General John J. Pershing, a Truman alumnus, provide full scholarships for tuition as well as room and board to cover the cost of a two person room in designated residence halls. (Please note that the value of your award will be set annually to cover full-time tuition and room and board up to the average two-person room rate. The average 2-person room & board rate for is calculated by averaging the costs for a standard 2-person room in Centennial, Dobson, E.C. Grim, Missouri, and Ryle Halls.)
Recipients also have the option of spending a semester or a summer studying abroad. The University coordinates the study-abroad programs and provides funding to the extent of $4,000 for the semester or a proportionate amount for the summer. The Pershing program is unique among Missouri institutions of higher education and is recognized throughout the Midwest as one of the most prestigious awards offered to high school graduates. Recipients become members of the Pershing Society, which promotes intellectual and social enrichment through group activities, special seminars, and internships. Each scholar will be assigned a faculty or staff mentor, in addition to his or her academic advisor. The mentor will act as an advisor and a friend, guiding the student in academic and social growth. High school seniors who demonstrate preeminent intellectual capability and energetic leadership in the classroom, school, and community will be considered for the award. Students must be accepted for admission to Truman by Jan. 15 to be reviewed for the award. After reviewing all applications, the Pershing Scholarship Selection Committee will choose 40-50 finalists. These students will then participate in personal interviews with the Committee.