Current MHC scholars who are good standing and are making satisfactory progress in the MHC curriculum (having completed at least 6 honors credits) are eligible to apply after they have submitted their study abroad application through GLIA. Students who are on warning but not dismissed from the MHC may still apply, however, students in good standing will be given priority.

HTAGs are competitive awards based on the quality of the application and the following criteria:

• number of credits to be earned on study abroad experience
• length of the program
• GPA, number of honors credits completed and credits in progress
• financial need
• the strength of the essay expressing how this program is related to academic goals
• evidence that the applicant has sought other sources of funding
• available funds

The maximum amount awarded through an HTAG is based on the number of credit hours to be earned. 

Maximum Funding Amounts:

• Programs of 3-6 credits: $500
• Programs of 7-11 credits: $750
• Programs of 12-21 credits: $1000
• Programs of 22 or more credits: $2000

Scholars are encouraged to seek other sources of funding for their study abroad course, such as the WorldTopper Scholarship (sponsored by the Study Abroad Office), their home department and college, Phi Kappa Phi, Golden Key, and Phi Eta Sigma. Additionally, the Office of Scholar Development (OSD) mentors students applying for nationally competitive scholarships for study abroad. Scholars eligible for the Gilman Scholarship, Fund for Education Abroad, or Freeman-ASIA are encouraged to connect with OSD to prepare strong applications.

The Honors Development Board will review applications between the dates listed below, as funding allows. 

• September 30: winter and spring programs
• February 28: summer programs
• March 30: fall programs

Applications received after these dates will be reviewed as funding allows.

Applicants are notified of awards by email within a month of the application deadline.

Scholars who were awarded HTAG funding are expected to do the following:

• Submit photos and a brief reflection of the HTAGs impact on their academic and personal growth;
• Successfully complete the entirety of the MHC curriculum;
• Meet with an MHC advisor each semester; and
• Write a substantial thank you letter to donors for any private funds received. 

Requirement 1: Photos & Reflection

• Photos: Select and email three to five photos to honors.htag@wku.edu that capture representative moments of the HTAG-supported experience (scholar conducting research, traveling, doing fieldwork, delivering a paper, working with colleagues or mentors, visiting a unique destination, etc.). In the body of the email, please describe the location and people appearing in each photo. 
• Reflection: In an attached document to accompany your photos, please provide the following: 1) Name, 2) Major, 3) Career goals, 4) Why was this opportunity important to your intellectual and personal growth and/or research?

Please submit your photos and reflection essay to honors.htag@wku.edu within a month of the conclusion of your HTAG-supported project.

Note: Failure to complete the above requirement will result in funding removal. If you choose to withdraw from MHC post-award, funding will will revoked which will result in charges on your TopNet account.

Please be aware that the photos and information you submit will become the property of the MHC and may be used in online or print publications.