The Sallie Mae Fund, in partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), offers the “Completing the Dream Gap Scholarship.” This program aims to support students facing financial hardships that could jeopardize their college education. Each of the 200 winners will receive a $2,500 award for the 2024-25 academic year. Application Deadline: December 6, 2024
Universities/Institutions:
- Applicable to accredited post-secondary institutions (community colleges, trade schools, or four-year universities) across the U.S.
- Rankings and programs vary by the student’s chosen institution.
2.1. Study Areas:
No restrictions on fields of study; open to students in various programs like vocational certifications, two-year, or four-year degree programs.
Scholarship Benefits:
- $2,500, paid directly to the educational institution to cover tuition, fees, books, and supplies.
Benefits Not Included:
- Living expenses, transportation, or personal costs are not covered. Additionally, winners are responsible for any applicable taxes
Eligibility Criteria for Sallie Mae Fund Completing the Dream Gap Scholarship:
- Citizenship Requirement:
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents (Green Card holders).
- Academic Requirement:
- Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.
- Financial Need:
- Open to students experiencing financial hardship or an emergency that places them at risk of pausing or discontinuing their studies.
- Diversity Focus:
- Preference is given to students from underserved or minority communities, including African American, Hispanic/Latino, and Native American applicants
- Program Requirements:
- Available to students in accredited two-year, four-year, or vocational/trade programs.
- Enrollment Status:
- Open to undergraduate students actively pursuing their degree or certificate and in good academic standing.
Additional Information:
- Number of Awards: 200 scholarships of $2,500 each.
- Selection Criteria:
- Scholarship recipients will be evaluated based on financial need, academic performance, and a personal essay or statement that describes how the funds will help them overcome financial challenges.
- Ineligible Categories:
- Graduate students are not eligible for this award.
- Students without U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency status are also excluded from applying.
- Usage of Funds:
- The scholarship money will be directly disbursed to the recipient’s institution to cover tuition, books, or related fees
- Other Scholarships Available:
If applicants are ineligible for this scholarship, Sallie Mae also offers additional financial aid opportunities through related grants and awards tailored to students in need.
Required Documents:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or residency.
- Transcripts verifying academic standing.
- Statement or essay outlining financial need or emergency circumstances.
Application Process:
- Visit the official TMCF website and complete the online application.
- Submit required documents, including academic transcripts and an essay about financial challenges.
- Ensure the application is submitted by the December 6, 2024 deadline
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Highlight specific financial difficulties and how the scholarship will address them.
- Maintain a clear and concise essay, explaining academic goals and any leadership or community involvement.
- Verify all documents for accuracy before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How will recipients be notified?
Winners are notified via email, phone, or mail after the selection process. - Is this scholarship renewable?
No, the scholarship is a one-time award. - What happens if a winner doesn’t meet eligibility after selection?
If ineligible, the award is forfeited and given to an alternate candidate. - Can non-minority students apply?
While priority is given to minority or underserved groups, all eligible students can apply. - Are graduate students eligible?
No, the scholarship targets undergraduate or vocational students facing financial hardships
Official Link for More Details and Application:
To apply and learn more, visit the official TMCF Sallie Mae Fund Scholarship page.