You may apply for as many scholarships as you like, as long as you meet each scholarship’s criteria. To apply for a scholarship, please review the individual scholarship requirements and then click on the application link. For most of our scholarships, you will apply online and the link will direct you to our scholarship software program Smarter Select. You must create an account with Smarter Select. From here you will be able to apply for multiple scholarships, save your work and track deadlines.

The majority of Community Foundation scholarship donors have elected to make need one of the considerations during the selection process. However, there are a few that are not based primarily on need. If a scholarship is needs based that will be noted in the eligibility requirements.

Students/families seeking financial assistance should begin the process by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Through the detailed information collected on the application, a Student Aid Report (SAR) is issued. The SAR, in turn, is submitted with college applications.

Awards are for direct expenses at the academic institution, such as tuition, fees and books. Money received for tuition, fees and books may not incur tax liability while amounts applied to room and board may be considered taxable income. Recipients should consult a tax professional for additional reporting responsibilities.

Every application is reviewed by members of MCF’s volunteer Scholarship Selection Committees. First MCF reviews applications for eligibility as we adhere to the specific eligibility criteria established by scholarship fund donors. After review, scholarship applications are evaluated on an objective and competitive basis, considering academic and nonacademic factors such as financial need, leadership, community service, and special circumstances.

Yes. Students may be selected to receive a scholarship from more than one MCF scholarship fund.

Different scholarships are announced at different times though the majority of our scholarships are announced in April. When you apply for a scholarship you will be notified of the timeline. If you are awarded a scholarship, you will need to fill out an acceptance form.

The amount of the award for each scholarship is listed on the individual scholarship page. Checks are made payable to and mailed directly to the school.