Submit your Undergraduate Deposit(link is external)
Submit your Undergraduate Deposit
Deposit today to reserve your spot in the upcoming fall class! We're excited to welcome you to the Lesley community.

Urban Scholars Initiative

Helping first-gen and low-income students realize their college dreams through a unique, tight-knit, supportive community.

Overcoming Barriers with Urban Scholars

Closing the education gap isn't just about individuals. By empowering extraordinary students we transform our world.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics(link is external), college grads earn 84% more than high school grads. However, high costs put college out of reach for many. 

At Lesley, we know potential isn't defined by socioeconomic status. That's why Urban Scholars Initiative (USI) provides tuition assistance, tutoring, mentoring, as well as book and supply stipends, to support students' financial, academic, and emotional needs.

Benefits Eligibility & Requirements
Learn more about benefits including 50% tuition discount, book stipend, additional scholarships, etc. Find out about requirements such as: demonstrating financial need, meeting admissions requirements, etc.
View full benefits list View eligibility and requirements

To maintain a tight-knit, supportive community, space is limited to 20 on a first-come, first-serve basis. Apply today. 

Our programming is based on three pillars of success:

  1. Social and Emotional Intelligence - challenging students to discover ther purpose and inner strength. 
  2. Career Exploration - encouraging students to explore their passions as well as identify career paths.
  3. Community Building - connecting students with like minds and shared experiences.

Since 2013, over 200 students have participated, with a first year retention of over 80%. All of our graduates are the first in their families to attend college!

Urban Scholars works hand-in-hand with eligible students to ease financial pressures, allowing you to focus on your education and realize your full potential.
News

Recognizing champions of diversity & equality

Unity Gala to become a new campus tradition
Read more about Recognizing champions of diversity & equality
Rocky applying ink to a printmaking screen

Rocky Cotard

For artist Rocky Cotard '18, one of our Urban Scholars, returning to Haiti opened new avenues for self-discovery, expression, and discussing differences.
Watch a Video
News

The accidental activist

Student Chaurice McMillan fights for urban youth
Read more about The accidental activist
Deadlines
  • December 15: Early Action Deadline
  • February 15: Priority Application Deadline
  • March 1: Completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
  • March 15: Financial Aid Award Notification
  • May 1: Enrollment deposit and USI contract deadline

    Note: To maintain a tight-knit, supportive community, space is limited to 20 USI students. Spots are limited and filled on a first-come, first-serve basis based on the date of enrollment deposit.
Partner Organizations
After my time at Lesley University and USI, I accepted a position with College Advising Corps-Boston University. I am currently working as a college and career adviser at Somerville High School... I owe it to the people that supported me through USI that instilled a passion for me to want to work with underserved youth since I was one myself.
Dewayne Green ’21, College and Career Advisor
Contact the Urban Scholars Initiative (USI)
Student Success Coaches
Where to Find Us
  • Urban Scholars Initiative
    29 Mellen Street, Room 103, 1st Floor
    Cambridge, MA 02138
29 Everett St, Cambridge, MA 02138
617.868.9600