Scholarships

The Quill and Compass Scholarships are for incoming students interested in exploring history, political science, and American studies here at one of the most historic colleges in the nation.

Recipients will have opportunities to sail the Chesapeake Bay on an 18th-century schooner, learn the arts of leadership as practiced by the great figures of American history, participate in a new summer program at the University of Oxford, and walk in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers. You will be able to study in small seminars with leading scholars, conduct original research under the one-on-one guidance of a faculty mentor, or hear firsthand tales of Civil Rights-era politics from a famous U.S. senator.

The scholarships’ name symbolizes our distinctive approach to studying the past. The quill pen represents Washington College’s famed excellence in teaching writing, and particularly the literary craft of history. The compass represents the many opportunities we offer our students to explore the world beyond the college gates - especially our surrounding region of the Chesapeake Bay, one of America’s richest historic areas.

All admitted applicants who intend to major or minor in History, Political Science or American Studies are encouraged to apply. The Quill and Compass program currently offers $6,000 scholarships ($1,500 annually for four years), along with unique opportunities to participate in travel and other special activities free of charge. The scholarships themselves are awarded to three members of each incoming freshman class, but other aspects of the program are open to outstanding students across many fields.

For more information on how to apply for the Quill and Compass program, please visit the site at Starr Center for the Study of the American Experience.