Scholarships and Contests
Ellis Trust for Girls
The Charles E. Ellis Trust for Girls (The Ellis Trust) helps eligible young women in Philadelphia excel in high school and be prepared for postsecondary success.
For girls attending public and charter high schools, we fund a range of exciting and meaningful experiences and opportunities to help girls strengthen their academic skills, develop their character, perfect their talents and discover who they are and who they hope to be. We also award grants to help cover basic school-related needs, such as uniforms and supplies. Read more and apply here.
Philadelphia and Montgomery Country 2018 Congressional Art Competition(submissions due April 27)
“Each spring, the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives sponsor a nation-wide high school art competition. The Congressional Art Competition is an opportunity to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation, as well as in our congressional district. This competition is open to all high school students in Philadelphia and Montgomery County. The overall winner of our district’s competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The exhibit in Washington will also include artwork from other contest winners nation-wide.
The Congressman works alongside local artists and high schools to collect and display the artwork. A showcase will be held to display all local entries.”
Learn more here.
The Philadelphia Foundation Scholarships
A comprehensive list of more than fifty scholarships available to high school students.
Asian Bank Scholarship Program (deadline April 15)
High school seniors residing within Philadelphia and surrounding counties are eligible to apply for this $500 scholarship award. There will be up to eight scholarship recipients. Learn more and apply here.
Dunkin’ Donuts Philadelphia Regional Scholarship Program (deadline April 15)
Palumbo high school seniors are eligible to apply to this $2000 regional scholarship. Twenty-five students will be awarded a scholarship! Learn more and apply here.
Black Women’s Education Alliance Philadelphia Scholarship (deadline April 16)
Graduating African American senior students are eligible to apply for this scholarship award. Learn more and apply here.
PFCU Scholarship Program (deadline April 27)
“Philadelphia Federal Credit Union is pleased to offer an Annual Scholarship Program to award selected young members with funds for their continuing education.
PFCU created the Scholarship Program in 2004 to further our philosophy of giving back to members and the communities that we serve. Our commitment to the young leaders in our communities demonstrates a firm belief in their ability to pursue their life’s desires and dreams.
Four $2,500 scholarships are awarded to high school seniors that are members in good standing of the Credit Union. Applications require transcripts, a teacher’s reference and two completed essay questions.”
Learn more and apply here.
Born With Purpose Book Scholarship (deadline May 4)
“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” — Malcolm X
High school seniors are eligible to apply for this $250 eligible scholarship award. Learn more and download the application form here.
“How U Survive Through Life Everyday” Scholarship (deadline May 14)
“The Young Chances Foundation HUSTLE Scholarship was established in 2018. The mission of the scholarship is to provide financial assistance to individuals that are enrolled in school, juvenile centers in the city, colleges and universities. Preference will be given to students who attended high school in the Philadelphia County. The Young Chances Foundation HUSTLE Scholarship principally targets academic and social programs; however, consideration is also given to alternative accomplishments and achievements during the school year.”
Philadelphia high school students with financial need are invited to apply for this annually awarded scholarship. Learn more and apply here.
Drexel Engineering Scholarship (deadline May 18)
Graduating seniors planning to attend Drexel University College of Engineering are eligible to apply for several scholarships. Learn more and apply here.
Thole Essay Contest (deadline May 18)
All high school seniors are invited to write an essay based on any aspect of the US constitution. One student from each participating high school will receive a cash price. Learn more here.
College Fairs Online Annual $1000 Scholarship (deadline June 1)
“Any student can apply online. The guidelines are listed on the site and are very simple. Students must participate in a virtual fair as well as sharing on social media sites. It’s as easy as that!” Learn more and apply here.
Valley Forge Military College Scholarship (deadline August 1)
This scholarship provides students with guaranteed admission and a partial scholarship to Valley Forge Military College. Learn more and apply here.
PhillyGoes2College
“PhillyGoes2College guides students through the process of applying and transitioning to college and other secondary opportunities. Whether you’re going for the first time or coming back as an adult, we’ll help you find the right programs, community resources, and financial supports to be successful.”
Find an online list of national and Philly scholarship opportunities here as well as other resources on the website.
Scholarships for First-Generation College Students
These scholarships are specifically awarded to high school seniors who will be the first in their family to attend college.
Horatio Alger Association Scholarship Program
High school students with financial need pursuing a bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree or certificate program are eligible to apply for scholarship awards ranging from $6000 to $25000. This scholarship program “specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.” Read more and apply here.
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