New York

New York Scholarships and Grants

Calling all Empire State high school seniors! You’re ready to embark on the next part of life’s journey and ready to go to college. Despite all the activities, fun with friends, and filling out college applications, why don’t you take a deep breath, and think about applying for scholarships, too. Everyone can use a break with the high costs of higher education! Listed below are some great opportunities, but if you don’t find one here that’s just right for you, go see your high school guidance counselor who has access to many, many more. Wishing you the best of luck with your new journey!

New York State Robert C. Byrd Federal Honors Scholarship

College is a big step, but you are ready for it! So, before it’s too late, why not apply for a scholarship to help out? This particular scholarship awards $1,500, and is renewable. It is to be applied to full time undergraduate study at any 2 or 4-year institution in the United States. You must be a high academic achiever to qualify for this scholarship – you will need an SAT score of at least 1875, a 95 grade average, or 410 GED score. Selection will be based on 75% GPA and 25% SAT. You must be nominated by your school. You can find further information at www.highered.nysed.gov.

Horatio Alger New York Scholarship Program

If you are a high school senior who has already faced and overcome great obstacles in your life, you need to take a closer look at this program.

Other requirements include residency in-state; that you be able to demonstrate financial need; that you have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and have maintained good academic achievement; that you are serious-minded in your approach to your future; and, that you are community service orientated. Along with your completed application you will need to submit an essay, copy of your transcript, a letter of support, and an income statement. The scholarship may be used for full time undergrad study at any accredited 2 or 4-year college in the United States. There is no specified major field of study, however, your studies must be in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. Please visit this website for an application: www.hortioalger.org/scholarships. These scholarships are for $5,000.

American Legion – Medical & Teaching

If you are the descendent or dependent of a veteran, live in New York state, and are graduating from high school, you might be eligible for this scholarship. Either you or a parent must be a participant of the American Legion Auxiliary. This award is designated for full-time study, majoring in either a health related field or education. Ten scholarships are given each year of $1,000 each, one in each of the ten New York Judicial Districts. You can obtain an application from your local American Legion Auxiliary Unit. For additional information, check out the website: www.deptny.org.

Christian Wolffer

If you love to cook, and see yourself as a top chef one day, or would be thrilled to find yourself in food service or restaurant management — this one’s for you!!! This scholarship targets students just like you who are graduating from high school, living in New York, who plan to enroll in a culinary or wine studies program. You must have at least a 3.0 GPA. Along with your application you will need to submit letters of recommendation, an essay, transcript, proof of eligibility, proof of residency, financial statement, and your resume. The award is in the amount of $2,000. Website: www.jamesbeard.org.

Hispanic Youth Leaders

If you are of either Hispanic or Puerto Rican heritage, attend a New York City public school, and live in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, or Queens, you may qualify to receive this award. Other eligibility requirements include a history of excellent academic achievement, strength and depth of character, and dedication to community service. You must also be able to provide proof of need for financial aid. Along with your application you will need to submit letters of recommendation, transcript, proof of eligibility, a two-page letter on community service as well as proof of service hours you have contributed to a community service project. Awards range in amount from $2,000 to $3,000, and may be used at accredited 2 or 4-year colleges or universities. If you would like more details, contact:
Moneygram of New York Youth Leader’s Scholarship
Attn: Jacquie Medina
521 West 181 St.
New York, NY 10033
Phone: 212-740-1440, ext. 208

City University SEEK/College Discovery Program

Funds from this program may be used at any CUNY campus, and they are designated for students who are both economically and academically challenged. To be eligible, you must be living in New York state, and be able to prove need for financial assistance. Such proof includes FAFSA (see ‘none’ on previous page) and TAP. To qualify for SEEK, you must have lived in-state for a minimum of one year. To qualify for College Discovery, you must have lived in New York City for at least one year. If you would like more details, contact the City University of New York. The website is: www.cny.edu.