NSCS

About NSCS

For 30 years, Turning Recognition into Opportunity™ for high-achieving students across the nation.

Who We Are

Recognizing & Elevating High Achievers Since 1994

The National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS) is an honors organization that recognizes and elevates high-achieving students. We provide career and graduate school connections, leadership and service opportunities, and exclusive scholarships, awards, and chapter funds.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded at The George Washington University, NSCS is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies and is recognized at nearly 300 campuses nationwide.

Our members are deeply committed to scholarship, leadership, and service—impacting their campus and local communities every day. They include 16 members of Forbes 30 Under 30 and nearly 200 Fulbright scholars.

1.6M+

Members

300+

Chapters

30+

Years

$100M+

In Scholarships

Member Stories

A Conversation With Prominent NSCS Members

Meet some of our most outstanding NSCS members as they share their unique stories and experiences.

Distinguished Recognition

Honorary Members

The Distinguished Honorary Membership is awarded to those who have made unique and influential contributions to NSCS or their campus and local communities.

Jimmy Carter

Jimmy Carter

Former President

Former United States President. Honored by Georgia Institute of Technology.

Senator John McCain

Senator John McCain

U.S. Senator

The 2008 Republican presidential nominee became a Distinguished Member through The University of Arizona. He served as a Senator representing Arizona for 21 years.

President Donna Shalala

President Donna Shalala

President, University of Miami

Donna Shalala is the much beloved University of Miami president. She previously served for eight years as the Secretary of Health and Human Services for President Bill Clinton.

Dr. Robert Michael Gates

Dr. Robert Michael Gates

Secretary of Defense

Dr. Robert Michael Gates was the Texas A&M University President from 2002 to 2006. He was nominated as a Distinguished Member there. He went on to serve as the Secretary of Defense for both former President George W. Bush and President Obama, from 2006 to 2011.

What Universities Say

University Endorsements

"
NSCS provides students with unparalleled opportunities for scholarship, leadership development, and service. The organization has been instrumental in helping our students achieve their full potential.

Kent Syverud

Chancellor, Syracuse University

"
The National Society of Collegiate Scholars represents the best and brightest students in higher education. Their commitment to academic excellence and community service sets them apart.

Dr. Mark Schlissel

Former President, University of Michigan

Mental Health Matters

Active Minds Partnership

NSCS has partnered with Active Minds, the nation's leading nonprofit promoting mental health awareness among college students. Together, we're working to change the conversation about mental health on campus.

Learn More

Discover What Makes NSCS Different

Explore our leadership programs, meet our team, or learn why membership is worth it.