African American Scholarship

African American students have the option to apply for several specialized scholarships within different fields of study. Scholarships are typically based on some type of criteria with merit based, grade based, leadership or volunteer service, grade levels or commitment to working within a specific industry or area some of the basic requirements of most scholarships. One such scholarship is offered by the William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship for Minority Students. This scholarship is designed for both undergraduate and graduate students that are African American or another minority. Students must attend an accredited university or college and be working towards a career in the non-profit sector. This scholarship does require an internship in Washington, DC as part of the criteria for the program. In addition leaderships skills and experience, an interest and aptitude in both written and oral communication as well as a proven academic record are all part of the criteria for consideration for the scholarship.

The National Society of Black Engineers offers their own scholarship fund for students that meet the criteria outlined on their website. These scholarships are for engineering students that are planning to advance their education or enter into the field of engineering. Criteria does not always include a high grade level but rather may be granted based on financial need, accomplishments and other selections. The NSBE also has pre-college scholarship programs for younger students that are entering into engineering programs and careers. This program also provides mentorship opportunities beyond the scholarship program as well as networking for new graduates and professional engineers through their website, trainings and professional organization.

The CIA undergraduate fund was originally developed for minority students but now is open to anyone. Undergraduate African American and minority students are encouraged to apply and can receive up to 18,000 with the award. Information and applications can be found at preceeding link. This scholarship is one of the scholarships that is granted on both academic standing and demonstration of leadership skills. Another specialized scholarship opportunity can be found at the website for the Thurgood Marshall Fund. There are different scholarships offered through the fund and some require that the student be enrolled in a particular field such as business, finance, science or engineering to qualify. Other scholarships within the fund are more general in scope. Typically these scholarships are for the traditional Black Colleges and Universities throughout the United States but may also be used in other programs depending on the type of scholarship.

The Jackie Robinson Foundation offers annual scholarships for high schools seniors that are applying to move forward with post secondary education. This scholarship is based on the criteria of being an African American or minority student, having already been accepted to a 4 year accredited university or college program, a high academic standing and a strong bases of leadership ability with the school or community.

Resources:

• William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship for Minority Students
• National Society of Black Engineers
• CIA
• Thurgood Marshall Fund
• Jackie Robinson Foundation