Important Dates
Nominations open: Sept. 15, 2025
Nominations close: Jan. 5, 2026, at 5 p.m. EST
Finalists notified: Early March
Virtual interviews: March 13, 2026
The Jim McKay Graduate Scholarship honors the legacy of legendary sports broadcaster Jim McKay, supporting student-athletes who pursue careers in sports communication and media. Named for one of the most respected voices in sports broadcasting history, the scholarship recognizes student-athletes who exemplify McKay’s commitment to leadership, integrity and the pursuit of excellence. Each year, one female and one male recipient receive $10,000 to pursue graduate study in sports communication, journalism, media studies or a related field.
Graduating senior student-athletes from NCAA member institutions with a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher who have competed at the varsity level and intend to pursue a career in sports communication or media.
Nominations submitted by the institution’s Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) or designated administrator. Finalists are interviewed virtually before final selection.
Nonrenewable scholarship for graduate study. Recipients must enroll in an accredited graduate program in sports communication, journalism, media studies or a related field.
Two recipients selected annually — one female, one male — each receiving $10,000 toward graduate study in sports communication or a related field.
Why Apply?
Fund your graduate education with a $10,000 award that can be applied toward tuition, fees, books and other expenses at an accredited graduate program.
Support your pursuit of a career in sports communication, journalism, media studies or a related field at the institution that best fits your goals.
Recognize your standing as one of only two student-athletes nationally selected each year for this prestigious scholarship in sports communication.
Elevate your profile by joining a distinguished group of Jim McKay Scholars who carry forward his legacy of leadership, integrity and excellence in sports media.
Through a competitive nomination and review process, Jim McKay Scholars are selected as student-athletes who exemplify the leadership, integrity and storytelling excellence that defined Jim McKay’s legendary career in sports broadcasting.
Eligibility
- Must be a graduating senior at an NCAA member institution.
- Must have competed in intercollegiate athletics at the varsity level.
- Must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.50 on a 4.00 scale.
- Must intend to pursue a graduate degree in sports communication, journalism, media studies or a related field.
- Must demonstrate leadership, integrity and service on campus and in the community.
QUESTIONS?
Have additional questions? Contact us at 317-917-6683 or by the email below