$10,000 Merit Scholarship
One Award Annually

Applications Open: March 1
Application Deadline: May 31 (11:59 PM EST)

Scholarship Overview

The Audacity to Dream Research Merit Scholarship recognizes dental student who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and a strong commitment to advancing oral health through research.

This prestigious award honors students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, disciplined inquiry, and meaningful engagement in applied, clinical, or translational research that advances oral health care and improves patient outcomes. Selected recipients demonstrate research engagement through participation in research projects, scholarly publications, or presentations at academic or professional conferences.

Applicants must also demonstrate active involvement in the Student National Dental Association (SNDA) and commitment to its mission of mentorship, service, and professional development

This award celebrates students whose curiosity, scholarship, and dedication to discovery reflect the NDAF’s mission of advancing knowledge and improving oral health equity.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Be enrolled in an ADA/CODA-accredited U.S. dental school
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Be an active SNDA member (local or national) in good standing
  • Membership must remain active throughout the review and award year

All scholarship recipients must submit:

• A brief quotation of appreciation
• A 30-second video message within 30 days of notification
• Completed Photo and Video Release Form

These materials may be featured on the NDAF website and related publications.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

• Official dental school transcript
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) (maximum three pages)
• Professional photograph
• Research Statement (maximum 750 words) describing:
  • Your research experience and contributions
  • Your specific role in projects or investigations
  • Any presentations, publications, or recognitions
  • The impact of your work on oral health or patient care
  • Your long-term research interests
• Letter from the SNDA National or Local President confirming membership status
• Two letters of recommendation:
  • One must be from SNDA Faculty Advisor, if none, Faculty Member or research mentor
  • Letters from family members, relatives, or fellow students are not accepted