James Monroe Scholars are the most academically distinguished undergraduates at William & Mary. Monroe Scholars demonstrate a concern for community, intellectual depth, curiosity, and devotion to learning for learning's sake. First-year Scholars may apply for funding to support a summer research project to be completed the summer after their first year. Every Sophomore or Junior Scholar is eligible to receive a $3,000 grant to conduct a research project the summer after their sophomore or junior year. Both of these projects are of the Scholars' own design, conducted with close mentorship from a faculty member. The research does not have to be in the area of the student's major. The two projects do not have to be related. Incoming first-year students and sophomore transfer students are considered for admittance to the program. Undergraduate Admission elects first-year students who are at the top of their high school classes and have standardized test scores in the top five percent nationally.