<p>My D1 is a biochem major with a departmental scholarship. It is a little scary to consider the possibility of a change of heart or a drop in performance but he loves it and has a great relationship with the professors. In many ways it is not unlike an athletic scholarship. Ie the risk of a coach or prof leaving, risk of injury or bad grades. </p>
<p>D2 is completely different and I couldn’t imagine him taking a departmental merit award. He will apply undeclared. A large number of students change majors during college. That number is higher for students who had a major chosen for them or were forced to choose too soon.</p>