Nevada Fostering Success Financial Aid Toolkit

AB 350 is a 2011 law (NRS 432B.591-595) affecting all youth “aging out” of the Nevada foster care system. It allows young adults to voluntarily remain under the Juvenile Court’s jurisdiction beyond the age of 18, up until their 21^st birthday (even if they leave Nevada), so that they can receive a monthly stipend—paid directly to them—while they work to reach their life goals.

If young people in foster care do NOT want to remain under court jurisdiction past their 18^th birthday, they can participate in the Funds to Assist Former Foster Youth (FAFFY) program (NRS 432.017) and receive a monthly stipend—paid directly to their landlord, with any remaining funds going directly to the young person. FAFFY funds (established in 2001) may be used to assist young people who age out of foster care in Nevada, from age 18 to their 21^st birthday; FAFFY funds may also be used for youth who are currently in foster care, ages 17 and up, who are identified as certain to remain in foster care until a minimum of age 18.

Clients who opt to terminate court jurisdiction and participate in the FAFFY program are also eligible for Medicaid but, in most cases, the plan will be a HMO plan. The child welfare worker/case manager will assist the client in completing and submitting the application, so the client does not have to apply through the welfare office.

Based upon need, FAFFY funds may be used to provide goods and services, including—without limitation:

Services provided for youth in foster care, ages 14 to 18

Services provided for young people who were in foster care, ages 18 to 20 (up to 21^st birthday)

Appropriate support and services that complement the youth’s own efforts to achieve self-sufficiency and recognize and accept their personal responsibility in making the transition from adolescence to adulthood:

Overview

The NSHE Foster Youth Fee Waiver is a type of college financial aid that covers the undergraduate course registration fees at any of Nevada’s public colleges/universities. The fee waiver specifically waives the base course registration fees, as well as any applicable lower-division laboratory fees, for all eligible courses in which the student is enrolled.

The fee waiver applies to the fall and spring semesters (summer term is excluded). Additionally, it can only be used by qualifying undergraduate-level students who have not yet reached their 26^th birthday, as of the first day of the semester.

The fee waiver can be accessed at any of the 7 degree-granting colleges/universities within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE). Each school internally waives eligible course registration fees for its qualifying students (the dollar amount of course registration fees charged/waived varies—based on the institution, total number of credits, and specific courses in which the student is enrolled).

The NSHE colleges and universities are as follows:

The exact award amount varies each semester, based on 3 factors:

Initial Eligibility

You must meet all four (4):

Continuing Eligibility

For more information about the NSHE Foster Youth Fee Waiver, check out these fact sheets:

• Who, What, When, Where, & Why Fact Sheet
• FAQs Fact Sheet

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)!

What is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the official application form completed by current and prospective postsecondary education students—in the United States—to determine their eligibility for Federal Student Aid. The FAFSA is for both undergraduate- and graduate-level students, including those pursuing professional degrees.

How do I complete and submit my FAFSA?

Step 2: Complete/Submit the Application for Admission for your NSHE College/University of Choice, Prior to Their Application Deadline!

Each of the NSHE colleges/universities have unique deadlines for their applications for admission, and students should always try to apply early. NSHE’s current FALL SEMESTER application deadlines are as follows:

Step 3: Once Admitted to your NSHE College/University of Choice, Complete/Submit the Foster Youth Fee Waiver Form

The Foster Youth Fee Waiver Form can be found at:
https://nshe.nevada.edu/wp-content/uploads/Academic-Affairs/fostering-success/NSHE_Foster_Youth_Fee_Waiver.pdf (always access the form through the link, to ensure that you have the most updated version, with the correct contact information!).

ALONG WITH THE FORM, YOU NEED TO SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION:

YOU WILL ONLY SUBMIT THE FORM ONCE (NOT EVERY SEMESTER/YEAR), UNLESS YOU TRANSFER TO A DIFFERENT SCHOOL (transfer students need to submit a new fee waiver form to their new school, for tracking purposes; but their foster care documentation can be transferred between the NSHE schools).

Step 4: Use Your Resources and Ask For Help!

When To Apply

Apply as soon as you have submitted both your FAFSA & your Application for Admission for your NSHE institution of choice! Fee waiver forms are accepted on a rolling basis, so there is no official deadline to submit your form. HOWEVER, it is wise to submit the form ASAP after you are admitted to your NSHE school of choice, because financial aid packages take time process; and you don’t want to be stuck having to cover a bill upfront or being dropped from your classes, while you wait for the fee waiver to process.

Restrictions on Use of Fee Waiver Funds

A course registration fee waiver, such as the NSHE Foster Youth Fee Waiver , is a form of financial aid in which a school “waives” a certain portion of a student’s course registration fees—meaning that the student does not need to pay that portion (often the main/largest portion) of their course fees. This form of financial aid differs from other forms, in that it is not paid directly to the student; rather, the student’s account is directly credited for the qualifying course registration fees to be waived. This means that a student cannot receive a refund for any portion of the course registration fee waiver; rather, if a student drops any/all of their courses, the fee waiver funds that were previously applied to their student account will be returned to the school.

Some fees associated with course registration are NOT COVERED by the NSHE Foster Youth Fee Waiver. The fees that are NOT covered by the fee waiver are as follows:

Overview

The Federal Chafee Education(al) and Training Vouchers (ETV) program was added to the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program (CFCIP)—now known as the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood—in 2002. The Chafee ETV program provides additional federal financial assistance to States and Tribes, in the form of education(al) and training vouchers, to meet the postsecondary education and training needs of youth aging out of the child welfare system—due to their disproportionate likelihood to experience difficulty as they transition to adulthood/independence.

Each eligible youth can receive a voucher of up to $5,000 per academic year, for postsecondary education and training—including vocational/trade options (John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families: Children’s Bureau. June 28, 2012. Retrieved from: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/resource/chafee-foster-care-program).

Voucher Amount

Up to $2,500 per semester/$5,000 per academic year; must reapply every academic year, in order to continue to receive the funding.

Eligibility

How to Apply

When to Apply

Chafee ETV applications will be processed on a rolling basis (first come, first served), but it is highly recommended that students prepare their applications well before the beginning of the semester for which they are seeking ETV funding, because funding is limited and it takes time to process each application.

Restrictions on Use of Voucher Funds

Overview

Federal Pell Grants are typically awarded solely to undergraduate students pursuing their first bachelor's degree (i.e. students who have not yet earned a bachelor's, graduate, or professional degree), who demonstrate exceptional financial need—according to the results of the FAFSA. However, in some cases, a student enrolled in a postbaccalaureate teacher certification program might receive a Federal Pell Grant.

The amount awarded for depends on a student's financial need, costs to attend school, and number of credits taken. You can find more information about the Federal Pell Grant at the studentaid.gov Pell Grant webpage. Unlike a loan, a Federal Pell Grant does NOT need to be repaid—except under certain circumstances (such as withdrawing from courses or failing to meet attendance requirements).

You can find more information about when and how you would need to repay a grant, as well as the consequences for failing to do so, on the studentaid.gov grant webpage.

Grant Award Amount

Award amounts typically change annually. The maximum Pell Grant award for the 2023-24 award year (July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024) is $7,395.

• The amount you get will depend on the following:
  • Your Expected Family Contribution (EFC),
  • Your Cost of Attendance (determined by your school for your specific program),
  • Your status as a full-time or part-time student (the Federal Pell Grant is prorated based on the number of credits in which you are enrolled: 1) fewer than 6 credits = ¼ award; 2) 6-8 credits = ½ award; 3) 9-11 credits = ¾ award; and 4) 12+ credits = FULL AWARD), and
  • Your plans to attend school for a full academic year or less.
• In certain situations, an eligible student can receive up to 150% of their scheduled Federal Pell Grant award for an award year. For example, if you are eligible for a $2,000 Pell Grant for the award year and are enrolled full-time for both the fall term and spring term, you’ll likely receive $1,000 in the fall and $1,000 in the spring. However, under certain circumstances, you may be eligible to receive up to an additional $1,000 for attendance in an additional term within that award year (resulting in you receiving 150% of your original award). You might hear this situation being referred to as “year-round Pell.” For details, contact your school’s financial aid office.

Eligibility

• Must be an undergraduate student pursuing your first bachelor’s degree (with very few exceptions)
• Must be enrolled at a federal student aid-eligible postsecondary education institution
• Must meet the income threshold requirements, which will be reflected in your FAFSA EFC—determined by the personal and income information that you input into your FAFSA

How to Apply

Complete your FAFSA at fafsa.gov, BEFORE THE PRIORITY DEADLINE for your college/university, PRIOR TO EVERY ACADEMIC YEAR in which you plan to attend college! The FAFSA opens on October 1st each year, for the following academic year.

When to Apply

ASAP, but definitely BEFORE THE FAFSA PRIORITY DEADLINE for your college/university, PRIOR TO EVERY ACADEMIC YEAR in which you plan to attend college!

Restrictions on Use of Grant Funds

The amount of Federal Pell Grant funds a student may receive over their lifetime is limited, by federal law, to be the equivalent of 6 years of Federal Pell Grant funding. Because the amount of a scheduled Federal Pell Grant award you can receive—each award year—is equal to 100%, the 6-year equivalent is 600%. If a student’s Lifetime Eligibility Used (LEU) equals or exceeds 600%, the student becomes ineligible for any additional Federal Pell Grant funding. Students can learn more about how their LEU is calculated and view their own LEU percentage using the eligibility calculation tool at studentaid.gov.

You may not receive Federal Pell Grant funds from more than one school at a time.

Overview

The FSEOG is a need-based grant to help low-income undergraduate students, with exceptional need (determined by the FAFSA), finance the costs of college. You can find more information about the FSEOG on the studentaid.gov FSEOG webpage. Unlike a loan, the FSEOG does NOT need to be repaid—except under certain circumstances (such as withdrawing from courses or failing to meet attendance requirements).

You can find more information about when and how you would need to repay a grant, as well as the consequences for failing to do so, on the studentaid.gov grant webpage.

Grant Award Amount

You can receive between $100 and $4,000 per year—depending on your financial need, when you apply, the amount of other financial aid you receive, and the availability of funds at your school. Each participating school receives a certain amount of FSEOG funds, each year, from the U.S. Department of Education’s office of Federal Student Aid. Once the full amount of the school’s FSEOG funds has been awarded to students, no more FSEOG awards can be made for that year. This system works differently from the Federal Pell Grant program, which provides funds to every eligible student. So, make sure you apply for Federal Student Aid as early as you can. Each school sets its own deadlines for campus-based funds. You can find your school’s deadline on its website or by asking someone in your financial aid office.

Eligibility

• Must demonstrate a very high level of financial need
• Must be an undergraduate student pursuing your first bachelor’s degree
• Must be enrolled at a Federal Student Aid-eligible postsecondary education institution
• Must meet the income threshold requirements, which will be reflected in your FAFSA EFC—determined by the personal and income information that you input into your FAFSA

How to Apply

Complete your FAFSA at fafsa.gov, BEFORE THE PRIORITY DEADLINE for your college/university, PRIOR TO EVERY ACADEMIC YEAR in which you plan to attend college! The FAFSA opens on October 1st each year, for the following academic year.

When to Apply

ASAP, but definitely BEFORE THE FAFSA PRIORITY DEADLINE for your college/university, PRIOR TO EVERY ACADEMIC YEAR in which you plan to attend college!

Overview

The Silver State Opportunity Grant (SSOG) is a state-supported financial aid program created by the 2015 Legislature pursuant to Senate Bill 227 (Chapter 387, Statutes of Nevada 2015). Under the SSOG program, need-based grants will be awarded to eligible low-income students who are college-ready, to pay for a portion of the cost of education at a community college or state college within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE). This unique program is built on a shared responsibility model and guided by a philosophy for awarding grant aid based on the total Cost of Attendance (course registration fees, student fees, books and supplies, room and board, and other living expenses) being shared by partners (the state government, federal government, family, and student).

Grant Award Amount

The SSOG award amount is calculated by subtracting the following from the student’s total Cost of Attendance: 1) the student contribution; 2) the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), determined from completion of the FAFSA; and 3) Federal awards received (including the Federal Pell Grant, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), and the Federal TEACH Grant). The amount remaining, up to $5,500 annually, is the SSOG award amount.

The total Cost of Attendance varies by student living circumstance (living off campus, living on campus [GBC and NSC only], or living with caregivers). It is calculated by the institutions based on a federal methodology provided for in 20 U.S.C. § 1087 II. For the purpose of the SSOG award calculation, a single Cost of Attendance based on the average of all eligible institutions is used for each housing category.

Eligibility

How to Apply

You must complete the FAFSA or your college/university’s alternative need financial aid application in order to be considered

    The FAFSA can be accessed at fafsa.gov.

When to Apply

ASAP, but definitely BEFORE THE FAFSA PRIORITY DEADLINE for your college/university, PRIOR TO EVERY ACADEMIC YEAR in which you plan to attend college!

The SSOG is awarded on a “first-come, first-served” basis!

Scholarship Award Amounts

Funding will be set by the number of eligible applicants per funding availability—up to a $1,000.00 per term/semester.

Eligibility

The Western Shoshone Educational Trust Fund was established via the Public Law 108-270 with the mission of distribution of educational assistance for the Western Shoshone People who were eligible for the Western Shoshone Claims Judgment Roll and/or individuals who prove to be a lineal descendant of an individual appearing on the said judgment roll, who satisfy all other eligibility criteria established by the committee.

• Must be a high school graduate or certificate of high school equivalency recipient
• Must be accepted for full-time admission to a nationally accredited institution of higher education course of study, to obtain an associate’s or bachelor’s degree
• Full-time students must maintain enrollment in 12 credits per semester to receive the WSETF Grant
• Continuing recipients must maintain a 2.0+ GPA

How to Apply

Review grant requirements and complete application at:
http://www.westernshoshoneeducationtrustfund.com/application__other_documents

When to Apply

By the deadline prior to every semester for which you would like to obtain a grant.

*Administered by the Public Education Foundation

Scholarship Award Amount

The scholarship award amount is $2,500 for the academic year ($1,250 disbursed in the fall semester and $1,250 disbursed in the spring semester). Six (6) scholarships are offered per academic year.

Eligibility

• Must be a high school senior in Clark County, NV who has overcome personal challenges and has been touched by the Family Court System (Clark County Department of Family Services/Department of Juvenile Justice Services)
• Must be pursuing postsecondary education (2- or 4-year college/university, including trade/vocational programs)
• Must not yet have turned 18 years old
• Must have at least a 2.0 unweighted GPA

How to Apply

Complete the application at https://thepef.academicworks.com/opportunities/11314. Two letters of recommendation are needed – one from a non-family member and one from someone involved with the family and juvenile services. Finalists may be interviewed.

When to Apply

November – January

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

Scholarship funds can only be used for course registration fees (in-state & out-of-state students)/tuition fees (out-of-state students), student fees, housing costs, or other “appropriate educational expenses” within the student’s Cost of Attendance

*Administered by the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Scholarship Award Amount

Amount varies based on the student’s need, up to $10,000 per academic year; can be renewed with reapplication

Eligibility

• Must be a current or former Nevada foster care dependent (cannot have been legally adopted)
• Must either be a graduating Nevada high school senior or already have a high school diploma from a Nevada high school
• Must be a legal resident of the U.S.
• Must have been accepted into an accredited 2-year or 4-year school (includes certificate programs)
• Must have significant financial need within Cost of Attendance
• Must not be related to the donors
• Must have a 3.0 GPA at the time of application
• Once awarded a scholarship, must agree to maintain a minimum 2.5 college GPA and provide a copy of unofficial transcripts at the end of each semester in which a scholarship is awarded
• Preference will be given to full-time students & applicants who have been in foster care in Washoe County
• NOTE: There is no age limit, and it is open to graduate students

How to Apply

Complete eligibility quiz & application at https://nevadafund.org/foster-children-education-scholarship/

Application Materials Required

• High School Transcript
• Essay (maximum of 1 page) that tells the selection committee about the following: your life, your plans for the future, why you chose your program, how your education will impact your life, and how you plan to finance your education
• Letter of nomination from a teacher/counselor who knows your goals and background

When to Apply

January – April

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

• Funds will prioritize the following expenses: course registration fees (in-state & out-of-state students)/tuition fees (out-of-state students), student fees, and/or books.
• While course registration costs, student fees, and books are the funding priorities for scholarship awardees, any funding remaining after those expenses are covered can go toward any other school and/or living expenses included in a student’s full Cost of Attendance (housing, utilities, food, transportation, etc.)!
• Funds may be used for vocational or other specialized training

*Administered by the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Scholarship Award Amount

Amount varies based on the student’s need, up to $10,000 per academic year—for up to 5 years—with a maximum total award of $40,000 to any given student; can be renewed with reapplication

Eligibility

• Must be about to age out of foster care or have already aged out of foster care—in Nevada
• Must apply before 21st birthday (NOTE: because the renewable award has a 5-year funding limit, students can only receive this scholarship up until their 26^th birthday)
• Must have been accepted to a 2- or 4-year college/university within the United States, and must begin postsecondary education courses within 12 months of being accepted to the institution
• Must have and maintain a 2.0 GPA, and must provide an unofficial transcript copy at the end of each semester in which a scholarship is awarded
• Must plan to attend school full time

How to Apply

Complete eligibility quiz & application at https://nevadafund.org/scholarships/otto-huth-scholarship-fund

Application Materials Required

• High School Transcript
• Essay (maximum of 1 page) that tells the selection committee about the following: your life, your plans for the future, why you chose your program, how your education will impact your life, and how you plan to finance your education
• Letter of nomination from a teacher/counselor who knows your goals and background

When to Apply

January – April

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

Funds can only be used for course registration fees (in-state & out-of-state students)/tuition fees (out-of-state students), on-campus room and board, campus-based meal plans, books, student health insurance, and other education-related expenses within the student’s annual Cost of Attendance.

Overview

The St. Jude’s Ranch for Children Career Opportunity Scholarship is available to students who are current or former participants of St. Jude’s Ranch for Children programs. Applications will be approved by the Academic Committee and will be awarded based on the needs of the applying student.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on student need; can be renewed annually, with reapplication, and an updated application is required for each semester in which the student is seeking scholarship funds to cover expenses charged by the education institution

Initial Eligibility

Continuing Eligibility

How to Apply

Download and complete the application, available at https://stjudesranch.org/the-career-opportunity-scholarship-fund/

Submit the application, along with requested supporting documents, to Kevin Nelson, Program Manager/Scholarship Chair

Application Submission Options

• Email: Scholarship@stjudesranch.org
• In Person:
  • 2685 S. Rainbow Blvd, Suite 112, Las Vegas, NV 89146, or
  • 5005 McLeod Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89120

Application Materials Required

When to Apply

ASAP, but at least a month prior to the beginning of the semester for which the student is requesting funds

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

Funds will typically be used to cover the following expenses:

Fund Allocation Requirements

Overview

Village of Becoming focuses on assisting young people from low-income backgrounds and/or otherwise underprivileged home environments, particularly those who have experienced foster care and/or homelessness. Their scholarship program is one of the many vehicles used by the organization to ensure that their community is provided with assistance to achieve higher education goals.

Scholarship Award Amount

Scholarships tend to range between $1,000 and $3,000 for the academic year, with an average of $1,500 per student. The number of scholarships awarded each year depends on funding available.

Eligibility

How to Apply

Applications are completed through a secure online portal: https://portal.villageofbecoming.org/.

Application Materials Required

How to Apply

The application cycle varies every year, but it often begins in the spring and ends before the fall semester begins.

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

This scholarship can be used for any eligible expenses within the student’s annual Cost of Attendance. Funds are paid directly to the student’s financial aid office; but refunds for any excess scholarship funding, beyond what is needed for costs charged directly by the school (course registration fees, student fees, campus-based housing fees, etc.) are permitted. Scholarships are typically awarded for the entire academic year (split evenly between semesters); but the funds have the flexibility to be used all in one semester, if the student and/or school want or need that.

Additional Expectations and Support Provided

There is a scholarship award luncheon hosted each year (the exact time period varies, depending on the scholarship application/award timeline for that year). All scholarship recipients are invited and strongly encouraged to attend.

Questions?

Please contact Latoya Johnson, at villagebecoming@gmail.com.

*Administered by Volunteers of America, Northern California and Northern Nevada

Overview

Each year, the Volunteers of America Dare to Dream Scholarship provides higher education funding opportunities for students who have experienced foster care.

Scholarship Award Amount

The scholarship amount varies each year, based on the donation-based annual scholarship budget and the total number of competitive applicants. The scholarship budget is evenly distributed among the recipients.

Eligibility

How to Apply

Complete and submit the application posted at https://www.voa-ncnn.org/dare-to-dream-scholarship-program, along with the required supporting documents, according to the stated instructions.

Application Materials Required

When to Apply

March – April

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

Can be applied toward any expenses within Cost of Attendance.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied

Eligibility

• Must have lived at least 12 months in foster care
• Must be at least 25 years old or older (they specialize in scholarships for foster care alumni who are 25 years old, or older, because eligibility for many foster care-specific funding options ends on the student’s 26^th birthday)
• Must be enrolled at an accredited college
• Must be seeking certification or a degree
• Must have already completed at least 60 college credits
• Must have demonstrated financial need
• Must have at least a 2.4 college GPA

How to Apply

Complete the application and follow the additional instructions on the website:
https://fostercarealumni.org/board-of-directors/scholarship/

When to Apply

November

Overview

Foster Care to Success (FC2S) provides postsecondary education scholarships to students who have experienced foster care in all 50 states.

Scholarship Award Amount

$2,500-$5,000 based on a combination of need and merit; RENEWABLE for up to five years, if the student remains compliant with program requirements

Eligibility

• Must have been in public or private foster care for the 12 consecutive months leading up to and including their 18th birthday; OR have been adopted or placed into legal guardianship after their 16th birthday; OR have been orphaned for at least one year at the time of their 18th birthday and not subsequently adopted
• Must be under the age of 25 on March 31 of the year in which they apply if they have not previously received scholarship funding from Foster Care to Success
• Must have been in foster care or orphaned while living in the United States (U.S. citizenship is NOT required).
• Must have been accepted into or expect to be accepted into an accredited, Federal Pell Grant-eligible college or other postsecondary school
• Must be an undergraduate student

How to Apply

Create a student account and follow the application instructions on the website:
https://www.fc2success.org/our-programs/information-for-students/

When to Apply

January – March; AWARDS ARE ANNOUNCED VIA EMAIL ANNUALLY, AT THE END OF JUNE

Overview

Foster Love (formerly named Together We Rise) is proud to offer the American Industries Scholarship, in partnership with the Milligan Family Fund, to students who have experienced foster care who are pursuing a trade degree/certification at a two-year community college or vocational-technical school. The scholarship provides access to academic and workforce opportunities for America's students who have experienced foster care. To accomplish this, scholarship recipients receive up to two years of scholarship support, in an effort to alleviate the financial burdens associated with securing a trade certification, licensure, and/or vocational degree.

Scholarship Award Amount

Scholarship recipients receive up to $10,000 annually, for up to two years, in an effort to alleviate the financial burdens associated with securing a trade certification, licensure, and/or vocational degree.

Eligibility

How to Apply

Step 1

Complete the application form available on the Foster Love website.

Step 2

Verification documents must be uploaded to the student's application portal. An email containing the link to the personalized upload portal will be provided upon completion of Step 1. The following documents must be provided to Foster Love no later than the application deadline:

When to Apply

June – August

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

These funds can be used for all allowable expenses within a student’s Cost of Attendance (course registration fees, student fees, books/access codes for course materials, housing, food, transportation, etc.), as well as other education and/or personal expenses deemed reasonable for a college student (tutoring; wellness services; professional and leadership development costs; relocation costs; travel to academic, employment, or program events; and other academic-related expenses tied to the student’s trade program).

Additional Expectations and Support Provided

In addition to the monetary award, recipients receive one-on-one support to navigate through their trade program, in preparation for the professional workforce. Recipients are given the opportunity to participate in Foster Love national events and apply for internships with partnering companies. Recipients will participate in annual leadership development events, peer-to-peer retreats, career-building workshops, and much more!

Overview

In collaboration with Foster Love (formerly named Together We Rise), the BrandSource Scholarship provides access to academic and workforce opportunities for America’s young people who have experienced foster care. To accomplish this, scholarship recipients receive up to two consecutive years of scholarship support, in an effort to alleviate the financial burdens associated with securing a trade certification, licensure, and/or a vocational degree. To ensure their long-term success, recipients can receive access to personal mentorship and career development services.

Scholarship Award Amount

Scholarship recipients receive up to $5,500 annually, for up to two consecutive years ($11,000 total), in an effort to alleviate the financial burdens associated with securing a trade certification, licensure, and/or a vocational degree.

Eligibility

How to Apply

Step 1

Complete the application form available on the Foster Love website.

Step 2

Verification documents must be uploaded to the student's application portal. An email containing the link to the personalized upload portal will be provided upon completion of Step 1. The following documents must be provided to Foster Love no later than the application deadline:

When to Apply

The scholarship application window will open on February 28^th each year; and it will remain open, on a rolling basis, until all scholarship spots are filled. Once closed, applications will not be accepted until the following application cycle.

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

These funds can be used for all allowable expenses within a student’s Cost of Attendance (course registration fees, student fees, books/access codes for course materials, housing, food, transportation, etc.), as well as other education and/or personal expenses deemed reasonable for a college student (tutoring; wellness services; professional & leadership development costs; relocation costs; travel to academic, employment, or program events; and other academic-related expenses tied to the student’s trade program).

Additional Expectations and Support Provided

In addition to the monetary award, recipients receive one-on-one support to navigate through their trade program, in preparation for the professional workforce. Recipients are given the opportunity to participate in Foster Love national events and apply for internships with partnering companies. Recipients will participate in annual leadership development events, peer-to-peer retreats, career-building workshops, and much more!

Overview

Through the generous support by Hope D. Smith and her husband Robert F. Smith, Foster Love (formerly named Together We Rise) partners with the Fund II Foundation to provide the Family Fellowship Scholarship, a scholarship program dedicated to propelling youth in foster care into higher education through financial assistance and family-like emotional support.

The vision of the Family Fellowship is to change the legacy of aged-out foster youth by transforming the way they are supported through their college journey. The program emphasizes the need to innovate, explore, and discover new ways to develop young individuals for a modern workforce. Up to 15 students are selected annually, from across the country, to participate in the Family Fellowship program.

Scholarship Award Amount

Each student chosen receives up to $12,000 per year, for up to five years, to alleviate the financial burden of obtaining a college degree.

Eligibility

How to Apply

There is a two-step application process:

Step 1

Complete the online application during the scholarship application window.

Step 2

Digital documentation will be required to verify your eligibility and complete your application. The following required application documents must be uploaded to Foster Love on or before the application deadline:

A secure email containing your personalized upload link will be provided soon after your initial application is submitted. Be sure to review your spam folder for correspondence from Foster Love, as sometimes their emails may be directed there.

When to Apply

March – May

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

These funds can be used for all allowable expenses within a student’s Cost of Attendance (course registration fees, student fees, books/access codes for course materials, housing, food, transportation, etc.), as well as other education and/or personal expenses deemed reasonable for a college student (tutoring; wellness services; professional and leadership development costs; relocation costs; travel to academic, employment, or program events; and other academic-related expenses tied to the student’s trade program).

Additional Expectations and Support Provided

In addition to the monetary award, recipients receive one-on-one mentoring to navigate through college in preparation for the professional workforce. Recipients are presented with the opportunity to engage with their peers, including Fellowship alumni. Recipients will have the opportunity to apply for internships with partnering companies and participate in annual leadership development events included in their summer and winter retreats, and much more!

Recipients will be required to participate in a series of orientation workshops that will prepare the students to start the school year on the right foot. Recipients will be required to participate in their annual leadership conferences and organized networking opportunities (all expenses paid).

From time to time, their partners and donors will request updates from students which will require each scholarship recipient to prepare thank you letters and other media. Partners and donors may also present internship opportunities for scholarship recipients that will require a level of professionalism and preparedness.

Communication will be of utmost importance. Scholars are expected to communicate on a frequent and consistent basis with staff, peers, and alumni. Individuals who put in the effort, time, and care into the Fellowship will receive the most fulfilling experiences.

Overview

The National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) offers a scholarship to students who have experienced foster care wishing to continue their college or technical school enrollment beyond the first year. A scholarship is awarded to a college or technical school-level student who is entering their second year of college or technical school.

Scholarship Award Amount

$500

Eligibility

• Must be or have been in foster care through a U.S. child welfare agency (This scholarship application will be used by members who emancipated or aged out of foster care at the age of 18, or older)
• Must be currently enrolled in college or technical school, and provide proof of such
• Must be planning to continue college or technical school in the next academic year

How to Apply

Online application can be accessed here:
https://nfpaonline.org/youth-and-continuing-ed-scholarships

Application Materials Required

• Online application form (incomplete applications will be automatically disqualified)
• Personal Essay – In 300-500 words, address the following: “How my foster care experience has impacted my educational goals.”

When to Apply

February – April

Overview

The National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) offers up to six $500 scholarships to youth who have experienced foster care or kinship care, and youth adopted through foster care, who are wishing to further their education beyond high school.

Scholarship Award Amount

$500 (6 total awards each year)

Eligibility

How to Apply

Online application can be accessed here:
https://nfpaonline.org/youth-and-continuing-ed-scholarships

Application Materials Required:

When to Apply

February – April

Overview

The nsoro Foundation provides direct academic scholarships, coaching, and mentor programs for youth in foster care nationwide — all youth who are currently in foster care, youth who aged out of foster care, and emancipated youth are encouraged to apply.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied.

Initial Eligibility

How to Apply

Online application can be accessed here: https://nsoro.submittable.com/submit

Application Materials Required

When to Apply

December – March

Continuing Eligibility

Scholarship recipients are required to maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, in order to retain their scholarships

Questions?

Call (404) 524-0807 or email associate@nsoro.foundation

Overview

The UMPS CARE Charities All-Star College Scholarship is for children adopted later in life, in order to provide a college education to students who otherwise might not be able to afford one. UMPS CARE Charities awards approximately $40,000 annually in college scholarships.

Scholarship Award Amount

Scholarship award recipients are eligible to receive UP TO $10,000 annually.

Initial Eligibility

How to Apply

Submit the scholarship application form and supporting documents

Application Materials Required

Continuing Eligibility

When to Apply

February

Additional Support Provided

Each recipient is paired with an MLB umpire and his family who mentor scholarship recipients through their college years. Scholarship winners receive phone calls, care packages, and on-field experiences at Big League ballparks to meet umpires and learn more about hard work, sacrifice, and giving back.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

Must have experienced foster care

How to Apply

Review the variety of scholarship links available on the website:
http://www.collegescholarships.org/scholarships/foster.htm

Follow the instructions for each individual scholarship for which you would like to apply

When to Apply

Varies, depending on the timeline for each individual scholarship

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

Must have experienced foster care

How to Apply

Review the variety of scholarship links available on the website: http://www.fostercoalition.com/college-scholarships-foster-youth. Follow the instructions for each individual scholarship for which you would like to apply.

When to Apply

Varies, depending on the timeline for each individual scholarship

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

Must have been in foster care, orphaned, and/or have been legally adopted

How to Apply

Review the variety of scholarships available on the website
https://www.scholarships.com/financial-aid/college-scholarships/scholarship-directory/special-attributes/adopted-foster-child-orphan/

Follow the instructions for each individual scholarship for which you would like to apply

When to Apply

Varies, depending on the timeline for each individual scholarship

Overview

The Students in Transition Scholarship focuses on providing high school graduates who have experienced housing insecurity with the opportunity to enroll in higher education certification programs while gaining necessary skills to improve employment opportunities. Assistance League of Reno-Sparks partners with the Washoe County School District (WCSD) Children in Transition (CIT) program and Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) Workforce Development and Community Education (WDCE). However, applicants are free to enter other accredited vocational or technical training schools located in Washoe County.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on student’s financial need.

Eligibility

• Scholarships are awarded on need- and/or merit-based evaluation
• It’s preferred, but not required, for the applicant to be part of the WCSD Children in Transition (CIT) program and be within 5 years of their high school graduation
• Must have a high school diploma or certificate of high school equivalency (GED, HiSET, or TASC)
• Must currently reside in Washoe County
• Must be eligible to work in the United States
• Applicant may not be a chapter member, the relative of a chapter member, an Assisteens member, or an employee of the Assistance League of Reno-Sparks

How to Apply

Visit the website to access the online application:
https://www.assistanceleague.org/reno-sparks/students-in-transition-application/

Application Materials Required

• 1 letter of recommendation from your school advisor, teacher, or a community member
• A brief personal statement describing your financial need and academic intentions, work experience, school activities and any involvement in community service
• An unofficial transcript of grades, to date

When to Apply

On-going (but, at least 4 weeks before enrollment into the requested program)

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on individual student financial need; renewable via annual re-application

Eligibility

• Must be one of the following:
  • A graduating senior within the Washoe County School District (WCSD)
  • A high school diploma or certificate of high school equivalency recipient from the Washoe County School District (WCSD)
  • A Truckee Meadows Community College student or graduate
• There is no income cap requirement
• There is no minimum grade point average (GPA) requirement
• The scholarship is open to students pursuing any field of study
• Both need- and merit-based scholarships are awarded

How to Apply

First, complete/submit your FAFSA at fafsa.gov

After you submit your FAFSA, complete the online application form, including all requested supporting documents, here: http://www.doylefound.org/scholarships/applications/

Application Materials Required

• Completed online application form
• Signed legal contract
• Personal essay
• School transcripts from all academic institutions attended (UNOFFICIAL transcripts are accepted)
• A copy of your Student Aid Report (SAR) from your submitted/processed FAFSA
• A copy of your Financial Aid Award Letter, if available from your prospective or current postsecondary education institution
• A budget/Cost of Attendance breakdown from each school listed on your scholarship application
• 2 letters of recommendation
• Work experience form
• School/community activities form

When to Apply

November 1 – February 1

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

This scholarship is “restricted” & each student’s scholarship is unique. Scholarship funds may only be used for specific educational expenses. Financial aid may affect the amount of the scholarship that can be used. All scholarship recipients are required to make payment requests and submit additional documents for the scholarship to be paid. Additional details will be provided to all scholarship recipients.

Scholarship Award Amount

The Millennium Scholarship is a maximum $10,000 award paid on a per-credit hour basis, up to 15 credits each semester.

• Millennium Scholars at a Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) community college (College of Southern Nevada, Great Basin College, Truckee Meadows Community College, or Western Nevada College) will receive $40 per credit hour.
• Students at the NSHE state college (Nevada State College) will receive $60 per credit hour.
• Millennium Scholars at all other eligible NSHE institutions (University of Nevada-Las Vegas & University of Nevada-Reno) will receive $80 per enrolled credit hour. Students do NOT need to reapply annually & will continue to receive the renewable annual scholarship, IF they are meeting the continuing eligibility requirements (SEE BELOW).

Initial Eligibility

• Must graduate with a diploma from a Nevada public or private high school
• Must finish high school with an overall 3.25 GPA—or above—for all coursework, OR receive a qualified score on a college entrance examination
  • SAT: Students who take the SAT on March 1, 2016 or later must obtain a combined reading, writing and math score of 1070 or higher.
  • ACT: Students must obtain a combined score of 21 or higher.
• Must have completed the minimum secondary education-level CORE CURRICULUM requirements:

• Must have been a resident of Nevada for at least TWO of your high school years
• U.S. Citizenship/Immigration Status Requirement:
  All students eligible to receive the Millennium Scholarship are required to execute an affidavit declaring the student’s eligibility for a Millennium Scholarship pursuant to the requirements of Nevada Revised Statutes 396.930. The affidavit shall appear on the acknowledgment of the award form that a student is required to complete prior to receiving the Millennium Scholarship. The affidavit shall consist of a declaration that the student is a citizen of the United States or has lawful immigration status, or that the student has filed an application to legalize the student’s immigration status or will file an application to legalize the student’s immigration status as soon as the student is eligible to do so. This affidavit shall not require a notarized signature.

Continuing Eligibility

To receive the benefits of the Millennium Scholarship program, you must enroll in an eligible institution of higher education in Nevada.

Eligible Institutions of Higher Education:

• College of Southern Nevada (PUBLIC NSHE community college)
• Great Basin College (PUBLIC NSHE community college)
• Nevada State College (PUBLIC NSHE state college)
• Roseman University of Health Sciences (PRIVATE, non-profit university—focused on healthcare credentials)
• Truckee Meadows Community College (PUBLIC NSHE community college)
• University of Nevada-Las Vegas (PUBLIC NSHE university)
• University of Nevada-Reno (PUBLIC NSHE university)
• Western Nevada College (PUBLIC NSHE community college)

Once admitted to an eligible postsecondary education institution, you must:

• Enroll each semester in a minimum of 9 credits at a NSHE community college or 12 credits at any other eligible institutions.
• Enroll in a program of study leading to a recognized associate degree, baccalaureate degree, or pre-baccalaureate certificate.
• Maintain a 2.60 semester GPA for each semester, until you complete a total of 30 credits. Starting in the semester in which you earn 30 or more credits, you must maintain a 2.75 GPA each semester you receive Millennium funds.

If you fail to meet the minimum requirements in any semester in which you receive funding, you will receive a strike and your scholarship will be suspended. Eligibility for the Millennium Scholarship can be regained only once by meeting all of the requirements listed above in a subsequent semester. Loss of eligibility a second time will permanently remove you from the program.

How to Obtain Funds

First, if you don’t already know your Millennium Scholarship Identification (MSID) Number (which is included in your GGMS award packet), use the GGMS Student Portal—on the Nevada State Treasurer GGMS website—to look up your MSID. You will need to input your first name, last name, high school graduation year, and date of birth.

Second, use the GGMS Student Portal to check the status of your GGMS award. You will need to input your MSID and your high school graduation year.

Third, use the GGMS Student Portal to acknowledge your GGMS award.

Fourth, follow up with your postsecondary education institution’s financial aid office, to ensure that you receive your funding in an accurate and timely manner.

When to Use Funds

Students have 6 years in which to use all of their Millennium Scholarship benefits, after graduating from high school. Check your student account/status for your Millennium Scholarship expiration date at NVGGMS.gov. Be sure to submit your Acknowledgment of Award when you get your award packet. There are exemptions to the 6-year limitation for members of the military and students actively serving or participating in a charitable, religious, or public service assignment or mission. Consult with the NSHE Board of Regents to determine your eligibility for such an exemption.

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

The Millennium Scholarship will NOT pay for remedial or graduate courses. NSHE defines remedial as any class with a course number less than 100.

The Millennium Scholarship can only be used for books or other educational expenses under certain circumstances. If you are receiving other financial aid, your institution may provide the remaining value of your Millennium Scholarship award in a residual check. These funds may be used for other educational purposes such as registration fees, required textbooks, and other costs related to attendance at your eligible institution.

Overview

A Kenny C. Guinn Memorial Millennium Scholarship may be awarded to 4 students each year, to bestow additional scholarships to students majoring in elementary or secondary education with the intent of teaching in Nevada.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on financial need—not to exceed $5,000 per student

Eligibility

• Must have satisfied the eligibility requirements of the Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship pursuant to NRS 396.930
• Must be entering his/her senior or last year of college at an eligible institution
• Must be enrolled in and remain enrolled in a course of study leading to licensure in elementary or secondary education
• Must maintain a college grade point average of not less than 3.5 on a 4.0 grading scale or commensurate level of academic achievement provided to and verified by the College Savings Board for students enrolled at an educational institution that does not calculate the grade point average
• Must state a commitment to teaching in Nevada upon graduation
• Must have a commendable record of community service

How to Apply

Review requirements and complete application here:
http://www.nevadatreasurer.gov/GGMS/GGMS_Requirements/

When to Apply

March – April

Overview

The Nevada Promise Scholarship can provide eligible NSHE community college students with up to 3 years of assistance with covering course registration and mandatory student fees that are not already covered by other gift aid, subject to legislative approval. It is awarded on a “first-come, first-served” basis, so it’s highly recommended that students apply as early as possible!

Scholarship Award Amount

As a last-dollar scholarship, the Nevada Promise Scholarship covers the cost of course registration and mandatory student fees NOT COVERED BY OTHER GIFT AID. Please review your college’s Cost of Attendance information, for additional details. The other gift aid that is considered first in determining eligibility for the Nevada Promise Scholarship includes the following:

• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
• Silver State Opportunity Grant (SSOG)
• Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship (GGMS)

NSHE will determine the maximum amount of the scholarship that each student is eligible to receive based on available funding. If there are not sufficient funds available for all eligible scholarship applicants, students will be awarded in the order the completed application was received.

NSHE shall award applicants filling out the Nevada Promise Scholarship FAFSA Alternative Acknowledgement Form at the participating institutions, only after all students who have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) have been awarded a full scholarship.

Each applicant should review Senate Bill 350 for the full details on the Nevada Promise Scholarship.

Initial Eligibility

• Must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 semester credits, at an eligible NSHE community college (in an associate degree program, a bachelor's degree program or a certificate of achievement program); eligible institutions include the following:
  • College of Southern Nevada (CSN)
  • Great Basin College (GBC)
  • Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC)
  • Western Nevada College (WNC)
• Must meet all program requirements and deadlines that are specific to the institution in which you are enrolled (see your community college’s Nevada Promise Scholarship webpage for more specific information on your college’s requirements and deadlines)
• Must be classified as a Nevada Resident, for tuition purposes, by the institution where the student plans to receive the Nevada Promise Scholarship (U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status are NOT required)
• Must be a high school diploma or certificate of high school equivalency recipient, via one of the options below:
  • Must have obtained a high school diploma from a public or private high school located in Nevada, or
  • Must have obtained a high school diploma from a public or private high school in a county of another state that borders Nevada and accepts Nevada residents, or
  • Must have passed a certificate of high school equivalency exam—the General Educational Development (GED), High School Equivalency Test (HiSET), or Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC)
• Must have successfully completed the certificate of high school equivalency assessment before the age of 20, by June or July of the year in which you plan to enroll in classes, for the following fall semester (the deadline varies by institution, so be sure to check your community college’s specific deadline!)
• Must not have earned a prior associate’s or bachelor’s degree

Continuing Eligibility

• Must have successfully completed the requirements for the Nevada Promise Scholarship for the previous academic year
• Must have maintained Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) for your community college, every semester (check your college’s financial aid webpage for SAP requirements)
• Must continue to enroll in at least 12 credits per semester (fall and spring semesters) that are applicable to a program of study

How to Apply

Check with your college for their specific application process, as it varies by institution; some institutions accept online applications and others require a paper application

When to Apply

Check with your college for their specific deadline, as it varies by institution

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

As a last-dollar scholarship, the Nevada Promise Scholarship covers the cost of course registration and mandatory student fees NOT COVERED BY OTHER GIFT AID.

Scholarship Award Amount

$500 to $5,000, depending on financial need

Eligibility

• NWF scholarships are designated for women residents of Northern Nevada.
• Candidates must be women attending school at a northern Nevada institution.
• If an applicant wishes to pursue a course of study that is not offered at a northern Nevada institution, the NWF will consider allocating a scholarship for pursuit of study at an out-of-region or out-of-state institution.
• Eligible candidates need to enroll in a minimum of 6-8 credits per semester.
• Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited two or four year degree or certifying program.
• Candidates must have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of a 3.0.

How to Apply

First, complete/submit your FAFSA at fafsa.gov.

After you submit your FAFSA, create an account and complete the online application, which you can access here: https://www.nevadawomensfund.org/what-we-do/

Application Materials Required:

• Online application form
• Proof of Northern Nevada residency status – Your resident status will be determined by examining your State of Nevada issued identification card (i.e. Nevada Driver’s License or Nevada Identification card). Passports, school IDs, and other forms of identification will NOT be accepted.
• A copy of your Federal Student Aid Report (SAR), from your FAFSA

When to Apply

December – February

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

These scholarships focus on residents of and/or students attending school within Northern Nevada

How to Apply

Review scholarship options and complete individual scholarship applications at:
https://sitmnv.org/scholarships/

When to Apply

Varies, depending on the individual scholarship

Scholarships Offered

The Early Childhood Associate Degree Scholarship

The Early Childhood Associate Degree Scholarship allows early educators the opportunity to enroll in 9-15 credit hours of coursework per year as they pursue a credential, diploma, or degree in early childhood education. Upon successful completion of their contract, scholarship recipients receive either a raise or bonus. Recipients agree to remain employed in their sponsoring program or continue to operate their home-based program for a specified commitment period.

T.E.A.C.H. Scholarships

The T.E.A.C.H. Scholarships are available to students who are attending UNLV, UNR, or Great Basin College—with a minimum of 55 credits towards an early childhood-focused degree.

The Early Childhood Bachelor Degree Scholarship

The Early Childhood Bachelor Degree Scholarship allows early educators the opportunity to enroll in 9-12 credit hours of coursework per year to work toward a bachelor’s degree in child development or birth-kindergarten education at a partnering university. Upon successful completion of their contract, scholarship recipients receive either a raise or bonus. Recipients agree to remain employed in their sponsoring program or continue to operate their home-based program for a specified commitment period.

Scholarship Award Amounts

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

Varies, depending on the scholarship

How to Apply

Get information about each scholarship and access the online application here:
https://nvteach.net/

When to Apply

Check website for application deadlines for each scholarship

Scholarship Award Amount

Scholarship awards range from one-time $2,500 awards to multi-year $5,000 awards

Eligibility

• The AANAPISI Scholarship is available annually to students attending APIA Scholars AANAPISI partner campuses listed on the website. APIA Scholars provides scholarships to underserved APIA students with a special focus on those who:
  • Live at or below the poverty level, or are otherwise of low socioeconomic status
  • Are the first in their families to attend college
  • Are representative of the APIA community’s diversity, geographically and ethnically, especially those ethnicities that have been underrepresented on college campuses due to limited access and opportunity
  • Have placed strong emphasis on community service and leadership as well as solid academic achievement
• Must be of Asian and/or Pacific Islander ethnicity as defined by the U.S. Census
• Must be a citizen, national, or legal permanent resident of the United States. Citizens of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau are also eligible to apply
• Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a degree-seeking program at one of the eligible institutions
• Must have applied for federal financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the academic year for which you are applying for a scholarship. Applicants do not necessarily need to have received federal financial aid to be eligible for a scholarship from APIA Scholars
• Please note the following:
  • Full-time enrollment and degree-seeking status is defined by the guidelines set by the institution’s Registrar’s Office.
  • Non-degree seeking students are NOT eligible to apply.
  • Students who already have a bachelor’s degree are NOT eligible to apply.
  • When you apply, you can be a part-time student, however, you must be enrolled full-time upon receipt of funding.
  • Solely online students are not eligible to apply. If you are enrolled in online and on ground courses, no more than 1/2 of your courses can be online.

How to Apply

Review the requirements and complete the application here:
https://apiascholars.org/scholarship/aanapisi-scholarship/

When to Apply

September – November

Scholarship Award Amount

Scholarship awards range from one-time $2,500 awards to multi-year $20,000 awards

Eligibility

• APIA Scholars provides scholarships to underserved APIA students with a special focus on those who:
  • Live at or below the poverty level, or are otherwise of low socioeconomic status;
  • Are the first in their families to attend college;
  • Are representative of the APIA community’s diversity (geographically and ethnically), especially those ethnicities that have been underrepresented on college campuses due to limited access and opportunity; and
  • Have placed a strong emphasis on community service and leadership as well as solid academic achievement.
• Must be of Asian and/or Pacific Islander ethnicity as defined by the U.S. Census.
• Must be a citizen, national, or legal permanent resident of the United States. Citizens of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau are also eligible to apply.
• Must be enrolling as an undergraduate student in a U.S. accredited college or university in the fall term of the academic year for which you are applying for a scholarship.
• Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale (unweighted) or have earned a certificate of high school equivalency (GED, HiSET, or TASC).
• Must apply for Federal Student Aid for the academic year for which you are seeking a scholarship, using the Free Application for the Federal Student Aid (FASFA), by early April.
• Must submit one letter of recommendation online

How to Apply

Review the requirements and complete the application here:
https://apiascholars.org/scholarship/apia-scholarship/

When to Apply

September – January

Overview

The Association on American Indian Affairs has been providing Native American student scholarships since 1947 ​and provides scholarships to undergraduate and graduate Native American students who are citizens of their Tribal Nation – whether or not their Nation is recognized by the federal government. The Association on American Indian Affairs has teamed up with the American Indian College Fund to provide administration to the Association’s longstanding scholarships!

Founded by friends of the Association on American Indian Affairs in 1989, the American Indian College Fund provides Native American scholarships and supports Native higher education. The College Fund also supports a variety of academic and support programs at 35 accredited Tribal colleges and universities, which are located in Indian Country, ensuring students have the tools to graduate and succeed in their careers.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on the scholarship.

Eligibility

• Any member of a state or federally recognized tribe or Alaska Native village is eligible to apply for a scholarship. You can also be eligible by proving descendancy from a parent or immediate grandparent that is/was an enrolled member of a state or federally recognized tribe or Alaska Native village.
• You must be enrolled with your respective Tribe, either federally recognized or non-federally recognized Tribe, from the continental US or Alaska.
• You must submit a copy of Tribal enrollment (there is no minimum blood quantum requirement for eligibility). This can be a copy of the student's Tribal I.D. card or a copy of an official letter from the Tribe. You must be directly recognized as a citizen or member of your Tribal Nation.
• You must be enrolled as full-time student.
• ​You must have and maintain a minimum 2.5 out of 4.0 GPA.
• You must submit a current class schedule and transcript.
• You must attend an accredited institution seeking an associate’s degree or higher (the Association does not fund certificate programs or seminaries).
• You must provide essays described in the application that show your connection to your Tribal Nation and Indian Country.

How to Apply

Review scholarship options and complete the individual scholarship applications, at https://www.indian-affairs.org/nativescholarship.html. There are FAQs and an application walk through video tutorial posted on the website.

When to Apply

February – May (application priority deadline is May 31st)

Overview

The “Que Llueva Café” Scholarship aims to support the dreams, hopes and aspirations of college bound undocumented students so that they can earn their college education and allow for all of their hard work and sacrifice to persevere.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on financial need

Eligibility

• Must be an undocumented high school student residing in a U.S. state (Puerto Rico is included)
• Applicants may NOT be current college students. Applicants must be high school seniors, high school graduates, or certificate of high school equivalency recipients who will enroll, for the first time, in an accredited college or university in the U.S. or Puerto Rico.

Key Selection Criteria

• Your personal story, which takes into account financial need and other compelling challenges the applicant has had to endure
• Your extra-curricular involvement, which includes anything you do outside of class like community involvement, work, and clubs
• Your academic promise, which is not limited to GPA or test scores but, more importantly, looks at your academic potential for the future

How to Apply

• Review scholarship requirements and complete application here:
  https://ca-core.org/scholarship/

When to Apply

January – March

Overview

The EEqual Scholarship Awards Program covers eligible educational expenses, up to $8,000. It can be used for any type of higher education, including but not limited to community college classes, trade school/trade certifications, and bachelor’s degrees. Students are eligible to apply if they are experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity (as defined under the McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program), in extreme poverty, or are part of a family that is currently going through a transition. A more detailed explanation of eligibility can be found at https://eequal.org/scholarships/.

Scholarship Award Amount

Scholarship recipients receive up to $8,000 for the academic year.

Eligibility

How to Apply

Complete the application process on the EEqual website:

When to Apply

November – March

Restrictions on Use of Scholarship Funds

The funds may only be used for qualified educational expenses within the student’s Cost of Attendance, which can include course registration fees (in-state & out-of-state students)/tuition fees (out-of-state students), student fees, books, and course-specific supplies. 

Overview

The goal of the GMS program is to promote academic excellence and to provide an opportunity for outstanding minority students with significant financial need to reach their highest potential by:

• Reducing financial barriers for African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American and Hispanic American students with high academic and leadership promise who have significant financial need
• Increasing the representation of these target groups in the disciplines of computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health and the sciences, where these groups are severely underrepresented
• Developing a diversified cadre of future leaders for America by facilitating successful completion of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees
• Providing seamless support from undergraduate through doctoral programs for students selected as Gates Millennium Scholars entering target disciplines

Scholarship Award Amount

Students selected as Gates Millennium Scholars will receive funds in an amount to be determined by GMS based on financial need. The award is based on the cost of course registration fees (in-state & out-of-state students)/tuition fees (out-of-state students), books and living expenses for the academic year, as well as the availability of grants, and other scholarships reported on the student’s financial aid award letter. The scholarship for the undergraduate award may be renewed annually based on Satisfactory Academic Progress, full-time enrollment, and the timely submission of required documents. Support for graduate degrees for continuing Gates Millennium Scholars may be received for the following fields: computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health or science.

Benefits

• Support for the cost of education by covering unmet need and self-help aid
• Renewable awards for Gates Millennium Scholars maintaining satisfactory academic progress
• Graduate school funding for continuing Gates Millennium Scholars in the areas of computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health or science
• Leadership development programs with distinctive personal, academic and professional growth opportunities

Eligibility

Must be a minority student with significant financial need.

How to Apply

Review scholarship information and complete application here:
https://gmsp.org/

When to Apply

Check website for annual deadline

Scholarship Award Amounts

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

How to Apply

Review scholarship options and complete individual scholarship applications at https://www.hacu.net/hacu/Scholarships.asp

When to Apply

Varies, depending on the individual scholarship

Overview

The Hispanic Scholarship Fund is designed to assist students of Hispanic heritage obtain a university degree. It is open to high school seniors, undergraduate students (all years), community college students transferring to four year universities, and graduate students. Awards are merit-based.

Scholarship Award Amount

$500 to $5,000, based on relative need among the Scholars selected

Eligibility

• Must be of Hispanic heritage
• High school students must have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
• Undergraduate and graduate students must have a minimum of a 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
• Must plan to enroll—full time—in an accredited, not-for-profit, four-year university, or graduate school, in the U.S., for academic year for which you are applying for a scholarship
• Must be a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Legal Resident, have DACA status, or be an otherwise Eligible Non-Citizen (as defined by FAFSA)
• Must complete FAFSA or state-based financial aid application (if applicable)
• All majors and graduate fields accepted, but there is an emphasis on STEM majors

How to Apply

Review the requirements and access the online application here:
https://www.hsf.net/scholarship

When to Apply

January – February

Overview

Since 1984, Horatio Alger Association members and friends have funded need-based college scholarships for low-income youth to pursue their dreams through higher education. As one of the largest need-based college scholarship programs in the country, the Horatio Alger Scholarship Programs specifically assist high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives. While many programs are directed primarily to recognizing academic achievement or leadership potential, the Horatio Alger Association seeks students who have exhibited determination, integrity, and perseverance in overcoming adversity, as well as have critical financial need.

So far, the Association has awarded more than $159 million to approximately 20,000 students. Through its many scholarship programs, the Association supports students pursuing career and technical certificates and degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and graduate studies.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varies, depending on the specific scholarship

Eligibility

Eligibility information for each scholarship can be found on their scholarship description webpage

How to Apply

Students can apply via their scholarship application webpage

When to Apply

Varies, depending on the specific scholarship.

• Scholarship application availability and submission deadlines for each scholarship can be found through the submenus posted on the scholarship description webpage

Additional Support Offered

In addition to scholarship support, the Association offers a number of services and opportunities to Horatio Alger Scholars:

• Financial Aid and Scholarship Counseling
• College Readiness Tools
• Support and Referral Services
• Internship Opportunities
• Alumni Association
• Online Education
• Graduate School Grants

Overview

The Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF) Scholarship program addresses the financial needs of college students and provides extensive, hands-on mentoring and support services. Once chosen from a national, selective application process, Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars receive a generous 4-year grant to attend the undergraduate school of their choice and enroll in JRF’s celebrated “42 Strategies for Success Curriculum.”

This 4-year program guides JRF Scholars to effectively navigate their college environments, explore career options, develop leadership skills, and embrace a commitment to service. The program also promotes the values and character traits embodied in the heroic life of the Foundation’s namesake, encouraging Scholars to positively impact the lives of others.

Scholarship Award Amount

JRF Scholars receive grants of up to $30,000 over four years to complement the financial aid they receive from their colleges or universities. In addition, Scholars are financially sponsored to attend JRF’s annual four-day “Mentoring and Leadership Conference” in New York City as well as other regional events throughout the year.

Eligibility

The JRF scholarship is awarded to outstanding high school graduates who plan to earn a baccalaureate degree from an accredited, 4-year college or university. Additional fellowships are given to JRF Scholars to pursue opportunities to work and study abroad (Rachel Robinson International Fellowship) and for post-graduate education (Extra Innings Fellowship).

Only graduating high school seniors may apply for the Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship.

How to Apply

Review detailed scholarship information and access the online application here:
https://jackierobinson.org/scholarship/

When to Apply

November – February

Overview

MALDEF offers an annual Scholarship Resource Guide for high school, college, and graduate students, and a Law School Scholarship Program for law students. The MALDEF Scholarship Resource Guide is a free, informative resource guide for students, parents, and educators with an extensive list of scholarships, including many that do not inquire about immigration status.

Scholarship Award Amounts

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

Varies, depending on the scholarship

How to Apply

Review the scholarship guide here:
https://www.maldef.org/resources/scholarship-resources/

When to Apply

Varies, depending on the individual scholarship

Scholarship Award Amount

$2,000 (A minimum of 10 scholarships are awarded), PLUS the following:

• A trip to a national awards ceremony (travel and expenses included)
• A second gathering in Washington, DC, one year after the initial scholarship award (all expenses included)

Eligibility

• Applicants must be under 20 years old as of October 15^th of the application year.
• Applicants must be entering college for the first time during the academic year for which they are applying for a scholarship. This means that the application is for high school seniors, those who are in certificate of high school equivalency programs, or those who plan to take a “gap year.”
• Applicants must have experienced homelessness within the last six (6) years.
• Applicants must currently reside in the United States.
• Undocumented students who meet the above criteria are eligible

How to Apply

Access the online application here:
https://www.schoolhouseconnection.org/youth-leadership/scholarship-program/
(Submit the required documentation with your online form, on or before the deadline)

Application Materials Required

• Complete the online application form.
• Submit copy of your high school transcript (official or unofficial), class ranking (if available), and cumulative grade point average (GPA), to date.
• Provide name of the Homeless Liaison, from school that you most recently attended.
• Submit 1 letter of recommendation (required); up to 3 letters will be accepted.
• Submit an essay, 1,000 words or less, on the following:
  • Your experience of homelessness and how it relates to your life and education
  • Your commitment to education during your experience of homelessness
  • Your desire to attend college

When to Apply

June – September

Additional Support Provided by Program

• Assists youth with financial aid processes, mental health advocacy and referrals, professional legal advocacy and referrals, and assistance in locating and establishing local contacts for general support and services.
• Builds a stable peer and adult support network for recipients, before, during, and after their college careers, and into their transition into the workforce.
• Offers young people meaningful opportunities to engage in advocacy, while providing sustained support services to help ensure graduation and success in life.

Questions?

Please contact Jordyn Roark, Director of Youth Leadership and Scholarships: jordyn@schoolhouseconnection.org

Overview

The SAA Historically Underrepresented Groups Scholarship (HUGS) helps increase the number of under-represented minorities obtaining degrees in archaeology. It provides funding to minority archaeology students, helping them enhance their education and successfully prepare for a variety of careers in archaeology and heritage management. There are 3 annual scholarships available, to undergraduate and graduate students.

Scholarship Award Amount

$3,000

Eligibility

• You must be a member of historically underrepresented minorities in archaeology, including but not restricted to African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian American, and other non-European minorities.
• You must be a resident of either the U.S. or Canada.
• At the time of application, you must be enrolled in a regionally accredited university in the United States or Canada, or if outside the United States, a university with equivalent accreditation.
• If you are a graduate student, you must be in Year 1 or Year 2 of graduate studies. You cannot already have an M.A./M.S. degree at the time of application.

How to Apply

Review scholarship options and contact information about the application process here:
https://www.saa.org/career-practice/Scholarships-and-Grants/historically-underrepresented-groups-scholarships

When to Apply

Check the SAA website for deadlines.

Overview

The SAA Native American Scholarships Fund is an endowment established to foster a sense of shared purpose and positive interaction between archaeologists and Native Americans. Scholarships are open to all Native peoples from anywhere in the Americas, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Indigenous Pacific Islanders.

Scholarship Options

SAA Arthur C. Parker Scholarship for Archaeological Training for Native Americans (1 available)

• Eligibility: To support archaeological training or a research program for Native American students or employees of tribal cultural preservation programs
• Scholarship Award Amount: Up to $6,000

National Science Foundation Scholarship for Archaeological Training (3 available)

• Eligibility: To support archaeological training or a research program for Native American students or employees of tribal cultural preservation programs
• Scholarship Award Amount: Up to $6,000

SAA Native American Undergraduate Archaeology Scholarship (1 available)

• Eligibility: To support undergraduate studies for Native American students, including but not limited to course registration fees (in-state & out-of-state students)/tuition fees (out-of-state students), travel, food, housing, books, supplies, equipment, and childcare
• Scholarship Award Amount: Up to $6,000

SAA Native American Graduate Archaeology Scholarship (1 available)

• Eligibility: To support graduate studies for Native American students, including but not limited to course registration fees (in-state & out-of-state students)/tuition fees (out-of-state students), travel, food, housing, books, supplies, equipment, and childcare
• Scholarship Award Amount: Up to $11,000

How to Apply

Review scholarship options and contact information about the application process here:
https://www.saa.org/career-practice/scholarships-and-grants/native-american-scholarships-fund

When to Apply

Check the SAA website for deadlines.

Scholarship Award Amount

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

UNCF is the nation’s largest private scholarship provider to minority group members. Each year, they award more than $100 million in scholarships to students attending more than 1,100 schools across the country, including their prestigious network of 37 HBCUs. They also manage a variety of scholarship programs, such as the Fund II Foundation UNCF STEM Scholars Program, UNCF/Koch Scholars Program, Walton K-12 Education Fellowship and the Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship Program.

How to Apply

Review scholarship options and complete individual scholarship applications at https://uncf.org/scholarships

When to Apply

Varies, depending on the individual scholarship

Overview

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $169 million in grants and scholarships from over 250 charitable funds to strengthen their Nevada home.

The Community Foundation assets consist of invested donor-advised funds, scholarships, designated and legacy funds, and the Northern Nevada Endowment. Launched in 2016, the Northern Nevada Endowment is an unending permanent charitable resource for Nevada. Gifts of all sizes are pooled and invested to address widespread community challenges and emergency relief for generations to come. The Community Foundation serves as a community leader, a permanent charitable resource, and a philanthropic advisor in charitable giving. Their core work on behalf of their donors and the communities of Northern Nevada is philanthropic advising, grantmaking, charitable asset investment management, leadership, and community engagement.

Scholarship Award Amounts

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

Must have attended secondary school (high school) in Nevada

How to Apply

Complete eligibility quiz & individual scholarship applications at https://nevadafund.org/scholarships/

When to Apply

January - April

Overview

The Public Education Foundation administers a variety of scholarships to assist students in paying for their postsecondary education. The Foundation offers more than 370 different scholarships for students to attend both in-state and out-of-state schools. Scholarship donors include corporations, associations, organizations, foundations and individuals who want to create a brighter future by encouraging education. Each donor determines the criteria of their scholarship and reserves the right to play a role as a committee member in the selection of recipients.

Scholarship Award Amounts

Varied, depending on the scholarship

Eligibility

Varies, depending on the scholarship

How to Apply

When to Apply

Year-round (CHECK WEBSITE REGULARLY)