Each year a committee comprised of representatives from Diversity and Multicultural Affairs, the Department of African and Afro-American Studies, the Black Student Movement, the Office of Student Government, the Center for Public Service, the Division of Student Affairs, the Carolina Union, and the Campus Y solicit campus-wide nominations for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarships. The committee solicits applicants from faculty, staff and student organizations.

After reviewing all nominees' credentials, the committee shall select one first place winner, who shall receive a $1500 scholarship, and two runner-up candidates who shall each receive $1000 scholarships. The committee shall make this determination prior to the close of the fall term prior to the year for which the scholarships are to be granted.

The Scholarships are open to all juniors at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Any junior may apply without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or handicap, whose public and private community activities demonstrate a commitment to improving the quality of life of our community and campus. The awards are given annually to students who, as judged by the MLK, Jr. Scholarship Committee, best exemplify Dr. King's commitment to our society. Nominees are judged on the basis of the activities and contributions that demonstrate their commitment to civil/human rights and their desire to improve the quality of life of all members of University community. Nominees are also judged on the ability to achieve and excel academically.

Upon receiving the name of the nominee from the Scholarship Committee, the Student Aid Office shall verify that the recipient is duly enrolled as a student at the time he/she receives the award and make the Scholarship Award to the recipient at the beginning of his/her senior year.