The Gilder Lehrman Institute and Washington College are pleased to offer the Quill and Compass–Gilder Lehrman Scholarship.
Applications are due by February 15, 2026.
Quill and Compass–Gilder Lehrman Scholarship
Quill and Compass–Gilder Lehrman Scholarship
About
The Quill and Compass–Gilder Lehrman Scholarship Program at Washington College will award up to 5 scholarships of at least $34,500 per student annually for a total of at least $138,000 over their four years attending the college.
Scholars will also be given unique opportunities for experiential learning including priority consideration to coveted programs like Washington College’s Explore America Summer Internship Program.
Applications are due by February 15, 2026.
Starr Center and Quill and Compass Scholarship Program
The Quill and Compass Scholarship is more than a merit-based scholarship. It is a community of students who, through sharing their intellectual ambitions and common interests, build skills for a brighter future. During the fall semester, Quill and Compass scholars are invited to join multiple Saturday field trips to historic and cultural sites. During the spring semester, at least one special guest speaker is invited to join the scholars for a workshop, dinner, or lecture relevant to scholars’ interests and goals. During the summer, students are provided additional support for professional development through multiple internship and travel opportunities provided by Washington College’s Starr Center or through the many other prestigious institutions connected to the college.
Student Testimonials
The Quill and Compass program was one of the most welcoming forces as I was beginning college and played a huge role in my decision to attend Washington College. I was immediately excited by the hands-on experiences that Q&C promised to provide, and they have completely delivered, helping me meet people and attend once-in-a-lifetime events.
—Kathryn Hoffmaster (Class of 2028)
The Quill and Compass program has provided me with numerous opportunities including traveling on the Sultana ship, speaking at the George Washington Book Prize at both Mount Vernon and in New York City, living history interpretation experiences, and educational workshops. Being a Quill and Compass scholar has been an honor at Washington College, providing me with a scholarship and multiple semester and summer internships.
—Emily Stiles (Class of 2027)
The Quill and Compass program has given me many opportunities to expand upon my understanding of history and to meet new people who share my interests. It has helped me find new ways to interact with history, such as sewing colonial clothing or riding eighteenth-century ships, which have truly brought history alive.
—Annabella Goglia (Class of 2027)
Additional Info
About Washington College
About Washington College
Washington College is a private liberal arts college in the heart of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The 10th college in the United States, it was first to be charted after the nation’s independence, training citizens toward a new republic. The campus is situated in historic Chestertown, and within a short walk of the Chester River, offering a scenic and historic environment for learning.
Though Washington College is rich in idyllic environmental landscapes and dynamic history, it is a short distance away from the state capital of Annapolis and the national capital of Washington, D.C. The college prides itself on having a strong connection to its community as well as its dedication to civic engagement, both in-town and nationwide. Its location on Chesapeake Bay and within such a short distance of these important laboratories of democracy make it the perfect place to make history together.
Eligibility
Eligibility
In order to qualify for the scholarship program, students need to have maintained a 3.5 cumulative GPA in their four years of high school and have a clear interest in one of the fields associated with the Quill and Compass program. These include, but are not limited to:
- American History
- Political Science
- Civic Engagement
- Museum Studies / Museum Education
- History Education
- Public History
- Oral History
- Archiving and Archival Studies
How a student expresses their interest in history, political science, civic engagement, museum studies, etc., may vary from person to person. However, a few examples might be a strong score on an AP History Exam, volunteering at a local museum or community organization, tutoring, or engaging in a research project that went beyond the expectations for an assignment.
The Quill and Compass Scholarship Program is competitive, taking into account academic rigor, as well as personal excitement, civic participation, and professional investment in these disciplines.
How to Apply
How to Apply
Students will need to apply to the general admissions for Washington College before or at the same time as they apply to the Quill and Compass Scholarship program, as there are two separate applications. It is generally recommended that students apply and be admitted to Washington College first.
However, applications to both the college and the scholarship program can happen concurrently, with the deadlines for both applications being February 15, 2026.