The Sterling Scholar Awards are open to Utah high school seniors. The selection process and nomination of students to compete on the region level is determined by each high school, but the students must meet the Sterling Scholar Standards listed below.
Sterling Scholar officials consider a high school senior if they will be graduating with the senior class in the expected year.
High school seniors who attend college classes full or part time or are classified as foreign exchange students are eligible for the Sterling Scholar Awards. However, the program is designed to recognize scholastic achievement in Utah high schools. The student has to be still enrolled in high school.
To be selected as a Sterling Scholar nominee, students must have extraordinary scholarship scores as well as service in leadership and citizenship opportunities in the Utah high school. It is up to each high school to determine if an individual has been in attendance enough to experience these leadership and citizenship opportunities.
Selection of winners and runners-up will be made on the basis of scholarship, leadership, and citizenship as demonstrated through activities and interests in an area of high school education characterized by one of the program categories. The general measurement will be defined and applied in this manner:
1. Scholarship
Scholarship (50 points) Overall GPA, difficulty of class schedule, ACT score of 17 or above, and class ranking. While judges will seek evidence of growth and service in all activities, the nominee’s talent and aptitude towards their category will receive particular emphasis.
2. Leadership
Leadership (25 points) The qualities of leadership in Utah high schools can be measured in part by the responsibilities placed on a student by his/her teachers and fellow students. However, evidence of positive and uplifting influence with fellow students will also be considered as indication of leadership.
3. Citizenship
Citizenship (25) Each Sterling Scholar nominee should exhibit a record of high standard of citizenship through his/her high school years. Service to school, community, and/or other organizations shall be considered. The nominee’s attitude toward and acceptance of responsibility in contributing roles, as well as seeking out service opportunities will be especially important. Evidence of a long-term commitment to service will also receive particular attention.
