Renaissance Scholars Program

Direct application

Up to $5,000

Eligibility

Education level
High school

About this scholarship

First-generation college students with significant financial need, Pell eligibility, and a 3.0 or higher GPA may apply to the Renaissance Scholars Program. Eligible applicants include high school seniors, community college students, or undergraduates in Oregon or Illinois, or freshmen and sophomores at partner HBCUs including Elizabeth City State, North Carolina Central, and Stillman.

Renewable scholarships are up to $5,000 per academic year, with a maximum of $20,000 toward a bachelor's degree. The program also connects scholars with mentoring and growth opportunities.

Apply online with transcripts, financial need documentation, and required essays. Deadlines are February 1 and May 1 annually.

Essay questions

What else to submit

  • Unofficial high school transcripts and college transcripts if applicable
  • One financial document: FAFSA confirmation, ORSAA or alternative application, parent tax return, or I-20
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Completed and proofread application responses
  • Unofficial high school transcripts (and college transcripts if applicable)
  • One financial document (FAFSA confirmation, ORSAA/alternative application, parent tax return, or I-20 for international students)
  • Two letters of recommendation (one from an educational source; one from any source)
  • Both essay responses required (Essay #1 plus one selected Essay #2 prompt)
  • Optional: activities summary or resume
  • Complete application responses.
  • Submit the required obstacle essay and one selected second essay prompt.
  • An activities summary or resume is optional.