📘 De Jure Legacy Scholarship Starter Guide

Written By Cassie Cappiello

This guide is here to remind you: money is out there, and your story matters. Scholarships aren't just for 'perfect' students — they're for bold ones. Let's get started.

3–5 fast tips to set students up for scholarship success:

  • Start early and stay organized. Use a calendar or app to track due dates.

  • Reuse your best essays. Save personal statements and tweak as needed.

  • Apply even if you’re unsure. You miss 100% of the scholarships you don’t apply for.

  • Look local first. Community orgs and state programs are often less competitive.

  • Ask for help. You don’t have to do this alone . Build a support team.

Scholarships to Watch

  • Macy’s Emergency Scholarship Fund

    • A short-term financial award offered through a partnership between the LULAC National Educational Service Centers (LNESC) and Macy’s to help full-time college students facing sudden economic hardships that could otherwise force them to interrupt or stop their education. To qualify, students must be enrolled full-time at an accredited college with a minimum 3.0 GPA, reside in eligible states/territories, and submit an application explaining their immediate financial need.

    • Award: $500

    • Deadline: Ongoing

  • Daniel G. Calugar Foundation

    • The Daniel G. Calugar Foundation offers the Academic Achievement Merit Scholarship, awarding ten incoming college freshmen $10,000 each to be applied toward tuition at a U.S. college or university. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, plan to enroll full‑time, and have earned at least 1500 on the SAT or 34 on the ACT; essays about career goals and an economic prompt are required. Applications for the 2027 fall term open September 1, 2026 and are reviewed on a rolling basis, so applying early is encouraged.

    • Award: $10,000

    • Deadline: Rolling basis. I recommend submitting ASAP

  • Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation (TASF)

    • The Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation provides $1,500 one-time scholarships to graduating high school seniors who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and financial need. Applicants must typically have a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit their application through a local Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. (TAI) chapter, since all materials must be routed through regional chapters rather than submitted directly online.

    • Award: $1,500

    • Deadline: Varies: Submit ASAP with local chapter deadlines.

  • Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation Educational Advancement Program

    • This need-based scholarship, administered by TMCF, supports certified descendants of Jesuit slaveholding who are pursuing postsecondary education at accredited two- or four-year institutions or similar programs. Eligible students must demonstrate financial need, maintain at least a 2.75 GPA, and have FAFSA on file, with awards of up to $10,000 distributed in two installments to help cover tuition and fees.

    • Award: Up to $10,000

    • Deadline: Rolling basis: I recommend submitting ASAP

  • The Psi Chi Undergraduate Scholarship

    • Supports undergraduate psychology students who are members of Psi Chi and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in psychological science. These awards are designed to help students offset educational expenses while encouraging continued involvement in research, scholarship, and professional development within psychology.

    • Award: $3,000

    • Deadline: June 29, 2026

  • The Hearts for Community Service Scholarship

    • The Hearts for Community Service Scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burden of higher education for students who actively volunteer in their communities.

    • Award: $5,000

    • Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • Courage to Grow Scholarship

    • The Courage to Grow Scholarship awards a U.S. high school junior, senior, or college student with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Applicants must submit a 250-word essay explaining why they deserve the scholarship and how it will help them achieve their educational goals.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • INSPIRIT Scholarship Fund (ISF) Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships

    • These scholarships supports high school seniors of Iranian descent, and current undergraduates and graduates who are committed to community service and leadership. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement, financial need, and a dedication to giving back. Selections are based on essays, leadership experience, and service impact.

    • Award: Varies

    • Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • NBCC Foundation Minority Fellowship Program for Mental Health Counseling (Doctoral)

    • This fellowship provides up to $22,000 plus travel support for doctoral counseling students committed to serving underserved and marginalized communities through mental health counseling, research, teaching, or advocacy. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a CACREP-accredited doctoral counseling program and demonstrate experience working with communities in need.

    • Award: $22,000

    • Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • NBCC Foundation Minority Fellowship Program for Addictions Counseling (Master’s)

    • This fellowship provides up to $15,000 plus training and travel support for master’s-level counseling students pursuing careers in addictions counseling and substance use treatment. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to serving underserved communities and be enrolled in an eligible accredited addictions or counseling program.

    • Award; $15,000

    • Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • NBCC Foundation Minority Fellowship Program for Mental Health Counseling (Master’s)

    • This fellowship provides up to $12,000 plus training-related travel support for master’s-level counseling students committed to serving underserved and marginalized communities through mental health counseling. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a CACREP-accredited counseling program and demonstrate experience working with communities in need.

    • Award: $12,000

    • Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • Delete Cyberbullying Mental Health Awareness Scholarship

    • The Delete Cyberbullying Scholarship supports students who are passionate about raising awareness around online harassment and its real-world impact. Applicants are invited to share thoughtful, creative reflections on cyberbullying and demonstrate a commitment to creating safer digital spaces.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • DRI Law Student Diversity Scholarship (DRI Foundation)

    • Supports rising 2L and 3L law students who contribute to diversity in the civil defense bar and legal profession more broadly. Applicants must be full-time students at ABA-accredited law schools (evening students may qualify if they meet credit requirements), and students affiliated with the American Association for Justice (AAJ) are not eligible.

    • Award: Up to $10,000

    • Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • The Pedro Zamora Young Leaders Scholarship

    • Awards students and young activists making an impact in health, social justice, and community advocacy. Open to high school seniors and undergraduate students age 27 and under, the scholarship recognizes leadership, service, and commitment to creating positive change.

    • Award: $5,000

    • Deadline: June 30, 0226

  • Hyundai Women in STEM Scholarship

    • Hyundai Motor America has opened applications for its fifth annual Hyundai Women in STEM Scholarship. In September, five female STEM students will receive a scholarship in the amount of $10,000 each.

    • Award: $10,000

    • Deadline: June 30, 2026

  • American Indian Medical Scholarship (NSCDA)

    • The American Indian Medical Scholarship is offered by the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America to support students of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian descent pursuing careers in nursing, medicine, health care, or health education. The program prioritizes students who intend to return and serve Native communities, especially in reservation or underserved healthcare settings.

    • Award: $1,500

    • Deadline: July 1, 2026

  • American Indian Services (AIS) Scholarships

    • The American Indian Services Scholarship program provides financial assistance to Native American and Alaska Native undergraduate students attending accredited colleges, universities, or trade schools in the U.S. Awards are typically based on financial need, and funds are sent directly to the student’s school to support tuition and educational costs.

    • Award: Up to $2,000

    • Deadline: July 1, 2026

  • Women in STEM Scholarship (Landmark Pest Management)

    • The Women in STEM Scholarship is an award to support students who identify as women pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). To apply, students submit an essay (up to 1,000 words) responding to a prompt about their passion for STEM and how their work can contribute to solving real-world issues like environmental protection, biodiversity, or human health.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: July 1, 2026

  • JMJ Phillip STEM Scholarship

    • The JMJ Phillip STEM Scholarship is an award offered quarterly to students pursuing or planning to pursue a STEM degree (science, technology, engineering, or math) in a U.S.-based college or university. Eligible applicants include high school seniors entering college and current college students, but they must have a minimum 3.6 GPA and submit supporting documents such as transcripts, a recommendation letter, and an essay.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: July 1, 2026

  • AKC Humane Fund Scholarships

    • The AKC Humane Fund Scholarships support students who are pursuing education in fields that advance animal welfare, veterinary care, and responsible pet ownership.

    • Award: $2,000

    • Deadline: July 1, 2026

  • KB Delta Scholarship Program

    • The KB Delta Scholarship Program is offered annually by KB Delta Compressor Valve Parts to support students currently enrolled in an accredited college or university. Applicants must submit an essay of at least 1,000 words describing their educational goals, post-graduation plans, why they deserve the scholarship, and how the award would impact their future.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: July 1, 2026

  • Ennes Scholarships (Society of Broadcast Engineers – SBE)

    • The Ennes Educational Foundation Trust Scholarships support students pursuing careers in broadcast engineering and media technology, especially those focused on the technical side of radio, television, and related fields. Multiple awards are offered annually, including the Harold E. Ennes, Robert D. Greenberg, John H. Battison Founder’s, Gino Ricciardelli, and Youth Scholarship, with preference often given to students already working in or studying broadcast engineering.

    • Award: $3,000

    • Deadline: July 1, 2026

  • Publix Cares Scholarship

    • Supports undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need who attend one of 10 participating colleges and universities. Preference is given to juniors and seniors, but eligible undergraduates may apply. Applicants must have at least a 2.75 GPA, be enrolled full-time in a bachelor's degree program, and be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or U.S. national.

    • Award: $2,000

    • Deadline: July 2, 2026

  • The Tom Cory Scholarship

    • Honors a founding member of the Architectural Precast Association and supports students pursuing careers in architecture, landscape architecture, or architectural engineering. Applicants must be a college junior, senior, or graduate student, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, at least two semesters remaining in their program, and demonstrate involvement in activities related to their field. The application also requires essays, a transcript, and a faculty recommendation.

    • Award: $5,000

    • Deadline: July 3, 2026

  • The Psi Chi Graduate Scholarships

    • Designed to support outstanding graduate students in psychology by helping offset the cost of tuition, fees, and other direct educational expenses. The program recognizes students who demonstrate strong academic performance, research engagement, and leadership within the field of psychology.

    • Award: $3,000

    • Deadline: July 6, 2026

  • The Angela & Reginald Goins Scholarship

    • supports undergraduate students attending a four-year HBCU who demonstrate both financial need and academic achievement. Applicants must be full-time bachelor's degree students, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be residents of New York City, Chicago, or the Metro Detroit area. U.S. citizenship is also required.

    • Award; Up to $4,500

    • Deadline: July 6, 2026

  • University Aviation Association (UAA)

    • Offers multiple scholarships for students pursuing careers in aviation and aerospace. Opportunities are available for aspiring pilots, aviation maintenance students, aviation management majors, and other aviation-related fields. While eligibility varies by scholarship, many require enrollment at a UAA member institution, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and demonstrated involvement or leadership in aviation.

    • Award: Up to $5,000

    • Deadline: July 6, 2026

  • Macy's Mission Every One Scholarship

    • Provides need-based funding for Black/African American undergraduate students attending an accredited four-year HBCU. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a bachelor's degree program, have a minimum 2.5 GPA, demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA, and be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or U.S. national. No essay is required for the initial application phase.

    • Award: Up to $5,000

    • Deadline: July 6, 2026

  • Bihm Law Firm Conflict Conqueror Scholarship

    • Recognizes incoming college freshmen who have demonstrated resilience and strong problem-solving skills in overcoming conflict. Applicants must be enrolled (or accepted) at an accredited U.S. college or university, have a minimum 3.5 GPA, be at least 17 years old, and submit a 500-word essay describing a conflict they faced, how they resolved it, and what they learned from the experience.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: July 8, 2026

  • Baron & Budd Mesothelioma Cancer Victims Memorial Scholarship

    • Supports students whose lives have been impacted by any type of cancer—whether through their own diagnosis or that of a loved one. Applicants must be accepted to a U.S. four-year college or university and submit either an 800–1,250-word essay or a 2–3 minute video explaining how cancer has affected their life and how the scholarship will help them achieve their educational goals. Two letters of recommendation are also required.

    • Award: $2,5000

    • Deadline: July 9, 2026

  • GeneTex Scholarship Program

    • The GeneTex Scholarship Program awards a $2,000 USD scholarship twice a year to students pursuing a STEM undergraduate or graduate degree.

    • Award: $2,000

    • Deadline: July 13, 2026

  • TYLENOL Future Care Scholarship

    • The TYLENOL Future Care Scholarship supports students pursuing careers in healthcare. Eligible applicants must be graduate students or college seniors entering graduate programs in medicine, nursing, or pharmacy with at least one year of study remaining.

    • Award: Up to $10,000

    • Deadline: July 13, 2026

  • Broadcasters Foundation of America Scholarship Program

    • The Broadcasters Foundation of America Scholarship Program awards a one-time scholarship to students pursuing a degree in broadcast communications, media, or a related field. Applicants must have an immediate family member working in broadcasting, be enrolled at a U.S. college or university, and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.

    • Award: $10,000

    • Deadline: July 15, 2026

  • NY Bankruptcy Law Essay Scholarship

    • This scholarship is a biannual essay contest hosted by a New York bankruptcy law firm. Students compete by writing a 2,500-word legal/policy essay responding to prompts related to bankruptcy law, debt relief, and financial justice. Current and past prompts focus on topics like bankruptcy discrimination under 11 U.S.C. § 525, exemptions, and policy reforms in the U.S. bankruptcy system.

    • Award: Up to $3,500

    • Deadline: July 15, 2026

  • AiryHair Cosmetology Scholarship

    • Supports students pursuing a career in cosmetology. Eligible applicants must be U.S. or Canadian citizens residing in the United States or Canada and either currently majoring in or planning to major in cosmetology. Students may apply by submitting either a 1,000+ word essay on how technology could change cosmetology over the next 10 years or a YouTube video discussing their educational goals and interest in the beauty industry.

    • Award: $1,500

    • Deadline: July 15, 2026

  • Eastern Area Links Finish Line Scholarship

    • This need-based scholarship supports 75 graduating seniors from TMCF member institutions who are close to completing their degree but need additional financial assistance to cross the finish line. Applicants must have at least a 2.5 GPA and submit a short video reflecting on their leadership, values, and commitment to community impact.

    • Award: Up to $1,500

    • Deadline: July 17, 2026

  • Ivy Beauty Scholarship

    • This scholarship is offered through TMCF in partnership with Ivy Beauty to support undergraduate students at TMCF member schools who demonstrate financial need and academic achievement. Selected scholars must be enrolled full-time, maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, and submit a two-minute video reflecting on the core values they believe are essential to creating positive change and how they will apply those values in their education and future career.

    • Award: Up to $4,100

    • Deadline: July 17, 2026

  • Keith R. Johnson Memorial Scholarship

    • This need-based scholarship supports students attending TMCF member schools, including HBCUs, PBIs, and select graduate/professional programs, with four recipients selected for funding toward tuition and mandatory fees. Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and submit a two-minute video describing the core values they believe are essential for creating positive change and how they will embody them in their education and career.

    • Award: Up to $10,625

    • Deadline: July 17, 2026

  • Guardians of the Wild Scholarship

    • This scholarship, offered through TMCF and Re:wild, supports graduate students at HBCUs pursuing conservation, environmental science, and other nature-focused fields. Selected scholars receive a competitive need-based award to support tuition and academic expenses, and applicants must submit a short video demonstrating their interest in environmental stewardship and their commitment to creating positive impact through their field of study.

    • Award: Up to $50,000

    • Deadline: July 17, 2026

  • Wells Fargo Access Scholarship

    • This scholarship, offered by TMCF and Wells Fargo, provides need-based funding to 50 students attending TMCF member institutions, including HBCUs, PBIs, HBCCs, and select graduate and professional schools. Applicants must be STEM majors with at least a 3.0 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and submit a two-minute video explaining the core values they believe are essential to creating positive change and how they will apply them in their academic and professional lives.

    • Award: Up to $10,000

    • Deadline: July 17, 2026

  • Restoration of America Foundation — The Constitution Scholarship

    • A scholarship program that lets students earn up to $10,000 by completing free online Hillsdale College constitutional study courses and then applying with certificates of completion and short responses. Applicants must be U.S. citizens age 16 or older enrolled in school (high school, college, trade, or homeschool), and awards can be used for tuition at high schools, colleges, universities, or trade programs.

    • Award: Up to $10,000

    • Deadline: July 31, 2026

  • The Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship

    • Awards students pursuing any level of education, including high school, college, graduate school, and adult learners. The application is centered primarily around a personal statement rather than GPA or financial need, making it accessible to a wide range of students.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: July 31

  • The Fund for Racial and Ethnic Diversity (FRED) Scholarship for Emerging Scholar

    • Supports undergraduate students from historically underrepresented communities of color who plan to pursue graduate studies in clinical or research psychology. The scholarship aims to increase diversity within the field of psychology by investing in future scholars who are passionate about mental health research, advocacy, and community impact.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: July 31, 2026

  • Fountainhead Essay Contest

    • The Fountainhead Essay Contest is an annual competition that is open to all 8th-12th grade students worldwide, and challenges students to write an essay on Ayn Rand's novel, 'The Fountainhead. The contest aims to promote critical thinking and writing skills by encouraging students to engage deeply with the novel's themes and characters.

    • Award: Up tp $25,000

    • Deadline: July 31, 2026

  • The Atlas Prize

    • The Atlas Prize is an international competition for exceptional young minds (ages 16-22) willing to think independently and engage deeply with the ideas of Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged. Participants respond to challenging essay prompts requiring serious engagement with the novel’s philosophical themes, including reason, freedom, ambition, and the moral purpose of life.

    • Award: Up to $100,000

    • Deadline: August 31, 2026

  • Coca-Cola Scholars Program

    • One of the most prestigious merit-based scholarships for graduating high school seniors in the United States who demonstrate strong leadership, service, and community impact. Each year, 150 students are selected to receive a scholarship to attend an accredited U.S. college or university. Applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA, be graduating during the current academic year, and plan to pursue higher education full-time. The scholarship focuses less on financial need and more on students who are actively making a difference in their schools and communities through leadership and service.

    • Award: $20,000

    • Deadline: September 30, 2026

  • Building Bridges Scholarship

    • This scholarship supports high school juniors and seniors, as well as undergraduate and graduate students, who are actively involved in their communities and committed to making a positive impact through service. Applicants must plan to enroll in an accredited U.S. college or university and submit a short essay describing their community involvement and efforts to build connections or support others.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: September 30, 2026

  • Aaliyah Lee Scholarship

    • This scholarship supports high school juniors and seniors, as well as undergraduate and graduate students, who demonstrate academic commitment and a dedication to community service. Applicants must plan to enroll in an accredited U.S. college or university, have at least a 2.5 GPA, and submit a short essay as part of the application.

    • Award: $1,000

    • Deadline: November 30, 2026

  • ASHRAE Undergraduate Engineering Scholarships

    • These scholarships support full‑time undergraduate engineering or pre‑engineering students pursuing degrees in programs that prepare them for careers in HVAC, refrigeration, and related engineering fields. Applicants must meet academic standards such as a minimum GPA and/or class rank and typically be enrolled in an accredited program or one with an active ASHRAE student branch, with additional opportunities available through society, chapter, or university‑specific awards.

    • Award: Up to $10,000

    • Deadline: December 1, 2026

  • Lowe’s Gap Scholarship

    • This need-based scholarship supports students at TMCF member schools, including HBCUs and PBIs, who are close to completing their degree but are facing an unmet financial gap that could prevent graduation. Applicants must be full-time undergraduates majoring in Business or STEM, maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and submit a short video explaining their core values and how they will use them to create positive change.

    • Award: Up to $5,000

    • Deadline: December 1, 2026

  • Sallie Mae Fund Completing the Dream Scholarship

    • This gap scholarship supports students at accredited postsecondary institutions who are close to completing a two-year, four-year, or vocational/technical program but are at risk of not finishing due to an unexpected financial need or emergency. Applicants must be in good academic standing with at least a 2.75 GPA, be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and submit a short video explaining their financial situation and why the funding is critical to completing their education.

    • Award: Up to $2,500

    • Deadline: December 1, 2026

  • Wells Fargo Gap Scholarship

    • This need-based emergency “gap” scholarship supports students at TMCF member institutions who are close to completing their degree but are at risk of stopping out due to an unexpected financial shortfall. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and academic standing, and submit a short video explaining their current financial situation and why this support is critical to staying enrolled and finishing their degree.

    • Award: Up to $1,000

    • Deadline: December 1, 2026

More Opportunities (Grants and Professional)

  • CBCF State Farm Communications Internship Program

    • The CBCF State Farm Communications Internship Program is a semester-long, in-person internship from August 22 to December 13, 2026, aimed at developing young leaders with the skills and networks necessary to drive positive change in Washington, D.C., and their local communities. Interns will be placed in various congressional offices, committees, subcommittees, or federal agencies.

    • Stipend: $4,000

    • Deadline: June 26, 2026

  • CBCF Walmart Emerging Leaders Internship Program

    • The CBCF Walmart Emerging Leaders Internship Program is a semester-long initiative sponsored by Walmart, designed to cultivate a corps of trained, young leaders equipped with the skills, outlook, and contacts necessary to generate and sustain positive change in Washington, D.C., and their local communities. The program will take place in person from August 22nd to December 13th, 2026. Interns will be placed in various congressional offices, committees, subcommittees, or federal agencies.

    • Stipend: $4,000

    • Deadline: June 26, 2026

  • Pathways to the C-Suite Internship Program

    • The Pathways to the C-Suite Internship Program partners recent graduates with top executives in the private sector to experience how public policy is influenced and developed at every level. This 16-week in-person program, running from August 22 to December 13, 2026, offers participants practical work experience, exposure to senior business leaders, and opportunities for networking, team-building, and leadership development.

    • Stipend: $4,000

    • Deadline:June 26, 2026

  • Congressional Fellowships on Women & Public Policy

    • The Women's Congressional Policy Institute offers the Congressional Fellowships on Women & Public Policy to graduate students or recent graduates committed to equity for women. Fellows gain practical policymaking experience and graduate credit by working from January to July in congressional offices.

    • Stipend: $4,400 (per month)

    • Deadline: July 10, 2026

Common scholarship questions and sentence starters:

"Describe a time you overcame a challenge." (general)

  • “When my family had to…”

  • “This experience taught me that I am…”

  • “Even when I wanted to give up…”

“What kind of legacy do you want to leave and how will you build it?”

  • “For me, legacy isn’t just about what I achieve. It’s about who I uplift along the way. Through education, I plan to…”

“Describe a challenge you’ve faced and how it shaped your sense of purpose.”

  • “Growing up, I didn’t always see people who looked like me succeeding. But one moment that changed how I saw myself was…”

“Tell us about a time you took initiative to solve a problem or support your community.”

  • “I didn’t wait to be called a leader. When I saw ____________ happening in my community, I decided to…”

“Why are YOU the right person to receive this scholarship? How will you use the opportunity?”

  • “This scholarship wouldn’t just support my future, it would strengthen the mission I’ve already started: to…”

Important Links

Cassie Cappiello
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