What is the Downey Scholarship?
The Downey Scholars Program is an elite scholarship opportunity for mathematics majors at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. The program provides a small cohort-style learning environment for high-achieving students in mathematics. The scholarship covers housing, fees, and materials. The program also supports students with a unique mentoring experience. Based on academic performance and program engagement, the scholarship is renewable for up to four years. Scholarships shall be renewable annually subject that students meet the following criteria:
- have demonstrated significant participation in the Downey Scholars Program through activities such as the Math Club, internships, and/or undergraduate research;
- be a full-time student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, majoring in mathematics;
- maintain a mathematics grade point average of 3.75 or higher.
What are the requirements?
The Downey Scholars Program is open to 2026 high school graduates. Eligible applicants must:
- declared mathematics major on UNO application (double majoring allowed and encouraged);
- have demonstrated proficiency in high school mathematics subjects and participation in high school mathematics programs;
- graduate in the top 25% of their high school class or have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher.
How to Apply
- Apply to UNO & Obtain Your NUID
Complete the UNO Application for Undergraduate Admission. Make sure to identify mathematics as your major. If you need to change your major, email unoadmissions@unomaha.edu.
- Complete the General UNO Scholarship Application
Submit the General UNO Scholarship Application Form. This ensures access to the Downey Scholarship Program as well as other UNO scholarships.
- Next Steps
Eligible applicants to the Downey Scholarship Program will be contacted by email to submit a separate application form.
If you have any questions as you complete the application, please email ftorresvitor@unomaha.edu.
Deadlines
The Downey Scholarship Committee will start reviewing applications after January 15, 2026. Upon acceptance to UNO and completion of the General UNO Scholarship Application Form, eligible applicants will be invited to submit a separate application form. Eligible applicants may also be contacted to attend a virtual or in-person interview with the Downey Scholarship Committee.