[1] It is a federally funded scholarship granted to U.S. undergraduate students for demonstrated leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to public service.

According to The Washington Post, the Truman Scholarship's "sole aim is to pick out people with potential to become leaders—then provide support to help them realize their aspirations.

[5] On May 30, 1974, Senator Stuart Symington of Missouri sponsored S.3548,[6] formally titled "A bill to establish the Harry S. Truman Memorial Scholarships."

The bill was signed by President Gerald Ford and enacted as Public Law 93-642 on January 4, 1975 and entered the United States Statutes at Large as 88 Stat.

More broadly, Truman Scholars possess intellect, leadership skills, and passion that would make them a likely force for the public good in any field.

The interviews are conducted by panels of former Truman scholars, trustees of the board, and notable national public servants.

The panelists make final selections of scholarship winners, attempting to choose one from each of the 50 states and American territories.

[17] Scholars currently receive an award of $30,000 going toward up to three years of graduate education leading to a career in the public service.