James Baldwin Scholars Program

A Transformational Experience at Hampshire

Baldwin scholarships are awarded to Hampshire College applicants who show academic promise, exhibit strong leadership within their communities, and display a commitment to social justice and equity. The program seeks students from communities historically underrepresented in higher education and who are typically first-generation college students.

Six students are awarded Baldwin scholarships annually. Most students will graduate in four years, but the scholarship will cover up to six years.

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Financial and Academic Support

Financial aid is awarded based on need and meets 100% of full-demonstrated need for tuition, room, board (meals), and books. The financial aid offer provided to Baldwin Scholars is a combination of federal, state, and institutional grants and work study. Grant aid will be offered in place of federal loans in the initial financial aid offering. However, students may still use federal student loans if they have a need for additional financial assistance. Please discuss options with the financial aid office.

The Baldwin Year

All Baldwin Scholars must fully participate in the transitional year programming, which includes:

  • Attending the James Baldwin Scholars and Hampshire College Orientations
  • Living on campus their first year
  • Completing three 100-level Hampshire courses each semester during the first-year transitional program. The following courses must be among those completed:
    • Introduction to Writing (fall semester)
    • The Space in Our Identity: Writing About Home (spring semester)
  • Working 8-10 hours per week to earn spending money
  • Meeting once a week with the director of James Baldwin Scholars Program in a group meeting
  • Checking in regularly with the director of the James Baldwin Scholars Program through individual meetings
  • Completing the James Baldwin Year portfolio

After the Baldwin Year

In order to continue in the program beyond the first year, students must complete at least five courses (including the two mandatory writing courses) by the end of the year and attend regular advisory community meetings with the director and/or other program students.

“I felt like it was impossible to fail, that I was supported on all sides and that there were people who really cared about my education.”Chris McMillan 03F