Kuehne Speaker Series Scholars Program: Empowering Future Leaders

The Kuehne Speaker Series Scholars Program offers up to $25,000 per student to support your academic journey at UNT. This prestigious scholarship is designed to recognize students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership and a passion for making a difference. In addition to financial assistance, the scholarship provides exclusive networking opportunities with influential leaders from a variety of industries, helping you build connections that can shape your future.

We encourage all eligible students to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to reduce financial burdens while gaining access to unique experiences that can enhance both your academic and career paths.

Apply for the Kuehne Speaker Series Scholarship using the Eagle Scholarship Portal (search Kuehne).

Key Dates

Application Opens:
October 15, 2025
Application Deadline:
March 1, 2026
Scholarship Recipients Notified:
No later than June 1

Eligibility Criteria - DFW

To apply for the Kuehne Speaker Series Scholarship, you must:
  • Meet the minimum entrance and continuing academic performance standards of the University (or its successor) in effect at the time of any award;
  • Enroll in a minimum of 15 semester credit hours at the University, unless the student is nearing completion of their degree program and does not require at least a 15 hour course load;
  • Enroll as a full-time undergraduate student in any major at the University;
  • Maintain at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent); 
  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident;
  • Be pursuing their first bachelor’s degree and was originally admitted to UNT as a first-time freshman;
  • Have earned at least 60 semester credit hours by the upcoming fall semester (for first-time applicants);
  • Meet financial aid criteria as established by the University Advancement Scholarship Committee (or its successor);
  • Complete the application for Scholarship. 

Eligibility Criteria - Houston

To qualify for the Houston Kuehne Speaker Series Scholarship, you must:
  • Meet all the requirements for the Kuehne Speaker Series Scholarship; AND
  • Be a graduate of any accredited high school in Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Walker, Brazoria, Galveston, Matagorda, Wharton, Colorado, Liberty, Waller, Chambers or Austin counties.

Application Process

STEP 1
Complete the online application.
STEP 2
Submit a resume.
STEP 3
Submit an essay.
Submit an essay of no more than 500 words describing your leadership and community service activities while enrolled at UNT.

Essay should include accomplishments and demonstrated impact on the UNT campus or local community.
STEP 4
Submit letters of recommendation.
Provide two letters of recommendation:
  • One from a UNT faculty or staff member;
  • One from an off-campus source such as a coach, high school counselor or teacher, or off-campus civic organization leader.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much is the scholarship worth?

Each recipient can receive up to $25,000. The final award amount may vary based on your financial aid package and external awards. 

2. Who can apply for the scholarship?

All full-time undergraduate students at UNT who meet the eligibility criteria are welcome to apply.

3. What types of networking opportunities are included?
Scholarship recipients will attend exclusive Kuehne Speaker Series events, where they can engage with prominent leaders from various fields. Past scholars have had the chance to meet CEOs, public figures and other influential professionals, gaining valuable insights, mentorship and internship opportunities, and job offers.
4. How will I be notified if I’m selected?
You will receive your official offer through the Eagle Scholarship Portal.  After accepting your offer, you will be connected with and mentored by a member of the University Advancement staff.
5. What is required of me if I receive and accept the scholarship?
You will be asked to write personal acknowledgment letters to the Kuehne Speaker Series Board of Directors and attend the Kuehne Speaker Series events when available. 
6. Can I apply if I’m already receiving other scholarships?
Yes! You can still apply for the Kuehne Speaker Series Scholarship even if you are receiving other financial aid, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
7. Where can I find more information or ask additional questions?
For more information, contact Laura Behrens at 940-565-2900.