Frequently Asked Questions

ISP stands for the Ignatius Scholars Program—a collaborative initiative between Loyola’s Thrive Center for Student Success and the Office of Undergraduate Studies. It’s designed to give you a strong start at Loyola through academic support, leadership development, and a tight-knit community of peers and mentors.

While it’s not a traditional scholarship program based on financial aid awards, the Ignatius Scholars Program is an Honors and Scholars Program that provides meaningful academic and financial benefits—including a $250 stipend upon completion.

The summer experience is packed with opportunities to grow, connect, and prepare for your first year. You’ll:

• Move in early and get to know your way around campus
• Engage in academic workshops and sessions led by faculty
• Participate in cultural excursions around Baltimore
• Meet supportive faculty, staff, and peer leaders
• Start forming friendships with your cohort of 44 fellow Scholars

All incoming first-year students are welcome to apply, and personalized invitations are sent to those who qualify. The program is designed for students who demonstrate strong academic promise and leadership potential. ISP may be especially beneficial for students who are first-generation college students, demonstrate financial need, or come from diverse backgrounds.

Applications are open from April through Friday, May 23, 2025. We encourage you to apply early and take advantage of this exciting opportunity!

To be considered, students must complete an online application and submit a short personal essay. Your essay should highlight your interest in the Ignatius Scholars Program and reflect on your academic and career goals.

Absolutely! Commuter students are welcome to apply and fully participate in ISP. For the summer residential component, on-campus housing is provided to all Scholars, including commuters.

Applications are reviewed by the ISP Selection Committee, and notifications will be sent via email by mid-June.

ISP is comprised of two required components: a week-and-a-half summer residential experience (August 18–28), followed by a fall semester component (September 2–December 10) that includes coaching, workshops, and community-based support.

The summer component of ISP is a full, immersive experience that runs from August 18–28. Daily schedules include morning through evening activities, including some weekend programming. Due to the intensive nature of the program, participants must be fully available during this period and will not be able to maintain a job or other daytime commitments.

Unfortunately, no. ISP overlaps with other Pre-Fall programs and requires full participation during the entire August 18–28 timeframe. We encourage you to choose the experience that best aligns with your goals—and if academic success, connection, and early community-building are top priorities, ISP is a great choice.

No. ISP is completely free for students and families. Loyola covers all expenses associated with the program—including summer housing, meals, excursions, and enrichment sessions.

Students who complete both the summer and fall components of ISP receive a $250 stipend, paid in two installments: Half ($125) is awarded at the end of the summer program, and the remaining half is awarded after the fall semester portion is complete.

The reading/writing and math sessions you’ll participate in are not for credit, but they are led by Loyola faculty and are designed to strengthen your academic foundation. These sessions are engaging, skill-building workshops that prepare you for success in your first-year college coursework.