{"id":11178,"date":"2012-09-26T13:47:43","date_gmt":"2012-09-26T13:47:43","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.augsburg.edu\/?page_id=11178"},"modified":"2025-04-17T14:33:18","modified_gmt":"2025-04-17T14:33:18","slug":"frequently-asked-questions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.augsburg.edu\/stem\/prism\/frequently-asked-questions\/","title":{"rendered":"Frequently Asked Questions"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n

PRISM Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/h2>\n

Q: I am planning to go into the health field. Can I apply?\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/address>\n

A: If your major is one of the following STEM fields (Biology, Biopsychology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Data Science, Environmental Studies, Mathematics, or Physics), you are eligible to apply. However, as per NSF guidelines, preference may be given to applicants whose career goals align with the advancement of STEM (rather than healthcare).<\/address>\n
Q: I am not sure what my major GPA is. How do I find out?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: Your major GPA can be found in the Degree Progress tab in Records and Registration when you run a major progress report.<\/address>\n
Q: My current GPA is under a 2.75. Should I still apply?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: If your major GPA is below 2.75, you are not eligible to apply.<\/address>\n
Q: What is the average GPA of the current PRISM Scholars?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: The average GPA of current PRISM Scholars is 3.7.<\/address>\n
Q: How do I know if I qualify as having \u201cfinancial need\u201d?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: To qualify, you must have completed the FAFSA and be Pell-eligible or MN State Grant eligible. Additionally, you must have unmet financial need in your award. If you\u2019re unsure, you can contact StudentFinances@augsburg.edu<\/a> to schedule an appointment with a staff member for clarification.<\/address>\n
Q: I am studying abroad next year. Can I still be a PRISM Scholar?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: Yes, as long as you can commit to being an active member of the cohort.<\/address>\n
Q: Are international students eligible?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: Unfortunately, international students are not eligible because the scholarship funding comes from the U.S. government.<\/address>\n
Q: I am a transfer student planning to attend Augsburg . Can I still apply?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: PRISM Scholars transferring from Century College, Minneapolis College, or Normandale Community College who have been accepted to Augsburg are encouraged to reach out to Dr. Jennifer Brookins-King at brookinj@augsburg.edu to receive information on joining the Augsburg cohort. We cannot accept PRISM scholarship applications from other transfer students at this point.\u00a0<\/address>\n
Q: I am not sure if I want to go to graduate school. Can I still apply?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: Absolutely! The purpose of the PRISM program is to prepare students for success in the STEM workforce. Whether you choose to go to graduate school or enter the workforce directly, the scholarship will support your goals.<\/address>\n
Q: I am really busy. How much time will I need to commit to PRISM?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: We aim to support your success, so we strive to ensure the required PRISM events are manageable. Scholars are expected to attend workshops each semester, meet with faculty mentors, and participate in scholar meetings. You will also need to complete surveys each semester for reporting purposes and may be asked to participate in interviews or focus groups. Additionally, PRISM Scholars often contribute to events supporting other STEM students at Augsburg.<\/address>\n
Q: Do I need to do anything to keep my scholarship?<\/strong><\/span><\/address>\n
A: Yes. To maintain your scholarship, you must:<\/p>\n