Apply for a Scholarship

The gift of education is one of the greatest investments that can be made in the future of our community.

The Community Foundation administers a collection of scholarship funds that have been established by local individuals, families and businesses that believe in the power of education to help students realize their dreams.

The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, room and board.

The scholarship application process varies for each fund.

Refer to Community Foundation Scholarships to find a complete listing of criteria, award amounts and contact information.


Scholarship Application Tips

Start Researching Early - The more time you can put into a scholarship search, the more options you will find.

Read Eligibility Requirements Carefully -If you have a question about eligibility for a particular scholarship, contact the scholarship sponsors.

Organize All Scholarship Materials - You should create a separate file for each scholarship and file by application date. Keep a calendar of application deadlines and follow-up appointments.

Proofread Applications Carefully - You can use the spelling and grammar check features on your computer.

Don't Leave Items Blank - You should contact scholarship sponsors if not sure how to fill out any part of the application.

Follow Instructions to the Letter - Make sure you do not go over the length limit for the essay.

Make Sure the Application Is Legible - You should type or print application forms and essays.

Make Copies of Everything You Send - If application materials are lost, having copies on hand makes it much easier to resend applications quickly.

Get Applications In Early - You will miss out if deadlines are missed.
 
Understand that Scholarships Could Affect Your Financial Aid Package - Private scholarships can actually reduce parts of your financial aid package. Colleges must consider outside scholarships as part of a student's financial resource available to pay for education costs.

What to Include - Many scholarships require you to provide some combination of the following: Transcripts; Standardized test scores; Financial aid forms, such as the FAFSA; Parents' financial information, including tax returns; One or more essays; One or more letters of recommendation; and / or Proof of eligibility.