David Letterman started a scholarship in 1985 for Ball State students with a media major or minor.

He graduated in 1969 from what is now the Department of Media. A self-described average student, Letterman based his scholarship primarily on creativity, not grades.

Applying students must submit a creative project, such as writing, research, interactive media, computer graphics, or websites.

Awards go to a winner and two runners up:

  • Winner: $10,000
  • First runner-up: $5,000
  • Second runner-up: $3,333

Eligibility

Besides submitting a creative project, students need to meet the following criteria:

  • have between 30 and 102 total credit hours at the end of the fall semester before applying
  • have a major or minor in media
  • be enrolled in at least 12 hours of media courses at the time of applying
  • continue as a full-time student the semester after receiving the scholarship

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