scholarships

George S. and Stella M. Knight Essay Contest

The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) invites all high school students (9th through 12th grades) interested in the American Revolution to participate in the George S. & Stella M. Knight Essay Contest. The contest is open to all students attending home schools, public, parochial, or private high schools in that same grade range.

To participate, students must submit an original 800- to 1,200-word essay based on an event, person, philosophy or ideal associated with the American Revolution, Declaration of Independence, or the framing of the United States Constitution. Each student’s essay will be judged based upon its historical accuracy, clarity, organization, grammar and spelling, and documentation.

The contest is conducted in three phases: the local chapter, state-level society, and national phases. The contest must be entered through an SAR chapter near the student’s residence.  A complete set of rules, along with the application for both the applicant and the sponsoring SAR members, can be found on their website. Please be aware that the local application deadline dates may vary, so interested applicants should reach out to their local SAR member listed below for further details. Deadline and contact information is listed under “Knight Essay State Contest Contacts” tab.

DEADLINE: December 31, 2025

Abbott and Fenner Scholarship Program

Abbott & Fenner are committed to continuing our efforts at helping those who have the desire and ambition to succeed.

The winner(s) of this annual scholarship will receive their award within 2 weeks of the listed deadline. All applicants should include their full name and mailing address with their submissions as well as the school they are currently attending.

The A&F Scholarships are available to all high school juniors and seniors as well as all students currently registered in any accredited post secondary institution.

Students will submit an essay on the topic that appears on the scholarship page of their website.

Full details are available on their site.

DEADLINE: June 8, 2026

NYCUA Scholarship

Thanks to 64 credit unions and four chapters, the New York Credit Union was able to award $32,250 in college scholarships to 50 bright, hardworking young credit union members in 2025. The scholarships range from $250 to $1,500.

The applicant must be a member in good standing of a participating New York credit union who meets all of the following criteria:

• Is a college-bound high school senior at the time of submitting the application

• Is attending college for the first time in the fall of 2026

• Will be enrolled in a two- or four-year accredited educational institution or trade school

• Agrees to use any scholarship funds awarded by January 31, 2027, at an accredited educational institution only

For more information, please visit their website.  Application can be found here.

DEADLINE: January 9, 2026

Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Marine Option Scholarship

The NROTC Marine Option allows those with a fighting spirit the opportunity to earn a commission in the United States Marine Corps as they complete their studies at a participating college or university. If they rise to the challenge, they may become officers of the Marine Corps.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Full tuition at one of the listed colleges or universities (unless room and board is elected as the preferred scholarship benefit instead of tuition and fees). 

• All mandatory fees imposed by the School on all full-time undergraduate students.

• Stipend for text books

  • Currently $750 per academic year ($375 per semester or $250 per quarter)

• Provide uniforms and Naval Science textbooks

• Three summer cruises

• Subsistence allowance each academic month:

  • Freshmen - $250/month

  • Sophomore - $300/month

  • Junior - $350/month

  • Senior - $400/month

Application Requirements:

• Be a U. S. Citizen.

• Be 17 years of age by 1 September of the first year of college and younger than 27 on 31 December of the year in which college graduation and commissioning are anticipated

• Be a current senior in High School (must be a high school graduate or possess an equivalent certificate to utilize the scholarship next year)

• Be physically qualified and be within height-weight standards

• Personally exemplify and display the following:

  • Character-Morally qualified and no record of military or civil offenses

  • A score of 74 on the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT), a composite score of 22 on the American College Test (ACT) or a combined score of 1000 in Math and Evidence-Based Reading on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)

  • Meet admission requirements of an NROTC-affiliated college or university of choice

Service Obligation:

• Marine Corps Option Scholarship Midshipmen will be required to serve at least four years on active duty.

• Obligation is not incurred until beginning the second year of college.

Application Link: USG Warning and Consent

Early Board Deadline: October 31st

Regular Board Deadline: January 31st

Wittenberg University - Rochester Area Scholarship

Established in 1983, the scholarship was initially funded by a grant from the Davenport-Hatch Foundation of Rochester, NY, to enable Rochester area students with strong academic credentials to attend Wittenberg University. Recipients are selected by a cooperative effort with the Rochester Alumni Scholarship Committee and Wittenberg’s Office of Admission. Awarded to incoming freshmen, the scholarship is for $14,000, or $3,500 per year for 4 years.

Students will be automatically considered for this award if they meet the following criteria:

• Reside in Rochester, NY (specifically, zip codes beginning with 144-, 145- and 146-).

• Apply to Wittenberg by February 1

The selection committee will give preference to students who rank in the top 15% of their graduating class, but will consider all applications and will review transcripts, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities and leadership experiences.

Visit their website here.

DEADLINE: February 1, 2026

NYS PTA Jenkins Memorial Scholarship For Teacher Education

The purpose of the scholarship is to assist outstanding students in preparing for the teaching profession.  Scholarship winners will receive up to $4,000.

Eligibility:

Public High School Seniors who:

• Plan to prepare for a teaching career

• Plan to attend a college of the State University of New York for baccalaureate degree in education -OR- plan to attend a two year community college before transferring to a baccalaureate degree program in education in a college of the State University of New York

• Attend a high school in New York State in a school where there is a PTA/PTSA unit in good standing

Click here for more information and the scholarship application.  Only two students will be selected from each high school to be considered for the scholarship.

DEADLINE: December 15, 2025

MMB Accounting Diversity Scholarship

The MMB+CO Accounting Diversity Scholarship was established to provide financial support to students from underrepresented communities pursuing careers in accounting. Our goal is to help address these disparities and promote greater equity within the profession, while encouraging these students to achieve their dreams.

MMB will award two, annually renewable $2,000-per-year scholarships. The scholarship can be renewed up to five years for a maximum total award of $10,000 per recipient.

To apply for the MMB Accounting Diversity Scholarship:

• Students must identify with an underrepresented group in the accounting profession

• Students must be enrolled full-time (or have applied for full-time enrollment) at a college or university in New York State offering accounting programs that lead to licensure as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

  • Scholarships will be forfeited if a recipient does not pursue full-time study in New York State

• Students must have accounting as their major field of study

  •  Scholarships will be forfeited if a recipient changes their major to anything other than accounting

Scholarship renewals will be based upon maintenance of an overall cumulative grade point average of 3.0. 

Students may also apply using the link to the online application found here.

DEADLINE: May 1, 2026

Waste Management Student Scholarship

Waste Management is offering a Fairport High School Senior who is planning on attending college to pursue Environmental Studies a $500 Scholarship.  Anyone who qualifies and is interested please fill out the application and submit it to the email address at the bottom of the application by the deadline.

DEADLINE: March 1, 2026

Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire Memorial Scholarship

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire Memorial offers college scholarships of up to $6,000 per academic year ($3,000 per semester) to the children of workers who were permanently disabled or killed on the job and are receiving New York State workers’ compensation benefits. This scholarship is open to high school juniors and seniors whose opportunity to attend the college of their choice – or to attend college at all – may depend on this type of scholarship assistance. 

To be eligible for the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire Memorial Scholarship you must meet all of the conditions and requirements listed below:

• Is a resident of New York State enrolled in an accredited program in higher education at a public or private institution;

• Is in good academic standing;

• Demonstrates financial need; and

• Is a child/dependent of a parent or guardian who presently receives disability benefit payments pursuant to the New York State Workers' Compensation Law for Permanent Total Disability, Permanent Partial Disability, or Death of a Spouse

(The only acceptable proof for this requirement is an official Decision of the New York State Workers' Compensation Board).

A flyer with more information about the TSFFM and a copy of the application can be found by clicking here or you can go to the website by clicking here.

If you qualify for this scholarship, please see your Guidance Counselor for a nomination.  You must have a nomination to apply.

Advantage Federal Credit Union - Fairport High School Scholarship

The 2026 Fairport HS Scholarship is now open! One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded. Applications must be postmarked on or before April 26, 2026.

Scholarship winners will be notified on or before May 31, 2026. Remember: Incomplete submissions will be disqualified.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for the scholarship:

• Must be a current member of Advantage FCU with a Student Checking account in their own name and members must be in good standing with Advantage FCU

• All applicants must be a Fairport high school senior for the 2025/2026 school year

• Must complete a Scholarship application and essay

• Must plan to attend an accredited college or university in the 2026 school year

Applications can be found here.  Good luck to all the graduating seniors!

DEADLINE: April 26, 2026

Advantage Federal Credit Union - Graduating High School Senior Scholarship

The 2026 Graduating High School Senior Scholarship is now open! Four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded. Applications must be postmarked on or before April 26, 2026. Scholarship winners will be notified on or before May 31, 2026. Remember: Incomplete submissions will be disqualified.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for the scholarship:

• Must be a current member of Advantage FCU with a Student Checking account in their own name and members must be in good standing with Advantage FCU

• All applicants must be a high school senior for the 2025/2026 school year

• Must complete a Scholarship application and essay

• Must plan to attend an accredited college or university in the 2026 school year

Applications can be found here.  Good luck to all the graduating seniors!

DEADLINE: April 26, 2026

Advantage Federal Credit Union - Trade School Scholarship

The 2026 Trade School Scholarship is now open! One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded. Applications must be postmarked on or before April 26, 2026. Scholarship winners will be notified on or before May 31, 2026. Remember: Incomplete submissions will be disqualified.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for the scholarship:

• Must be a current member of Advantage FCU with a Student Checking account in their own name and members must be in good standing with Advantage FCU

• Submit two (2) letters of recommendation

• Minimum GPA of 2.0

• All applicants must be a high school senior for the 2025/2026 school year

• Must complete a Scholarship application and essay

• Must plan to attend a trade/vocational school in the 2026 school year

Applications can be found here.  Good luck to all the graduating seniors!

DEADLINE: April 26, 2026

Advantage Federal Credit Union - Highland Hospital Scholarship

The 2026 Highland Hospital Senior Scholarship is now open! One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded. Applications must be postmarked on or before April 26, 2026. Scholarship winners will be notified on or before May 31, 2026. Remember: Incomplete submissions will be disqualified.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for the scholarship:

• Must be a current member of Advantage FCU with a Student Checking account in their own name and members must be in good standing with Advantage FCU

• All applicants must be a high school senior or returning college student for the 2025/2026 school year

• Must complete a Scholarship application and essay

• Must plan to attend an accredited college or university in the 2026 school year

• Must be a relative of a Highland employee

Applications can be found here.  Good luck to all the graduating seniors!

DEADLINE: April 26, 2026

NYS STEM Incentive Program

The New York State STEM Incentive Program application will open December 1, 2024, for students attending a SUNY or CUNY college.

To be eligible, students must: 

• Apply in their senior year of high school.

• Be ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school graduating class at a NYS high school.

• Be enrolled in a qualifying full-time undergraduate STEM program at a NYS SUNY or CUNY college.

• Be a legal resident of New York State and have lived there continuously for 12 months. Students who do not meet residency requirements may qualify through the NYS Dream Act.

• Agree to live and work in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics in NYS for five years.

For a description of the program and contact information, visit the STEM Incentive Program website. 

DEADLINE: August 15, 2026

Polly F. Burke Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is established by the family and friends of Polly F. Burke.  Mrs. Burke was active in the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and was honored as New York State Director of District VII and New York State Chairman, DAR schools.

The amount of this one-year scholarship is expected to be $1,000.

Applicant must be:

• A US Citizen

• A senior of an accredited Monroe County, New York high school

• Plan to attend a college or university

• Outstanding academic record

• A person who has demonstrated a commitment to community service

• Provide at least three letters of recommendation and other evidence which address the student’s leadership abilities, sense of patriotism, responsible behavior, honesty and integrity.

Applicants submit the Scholarship Application and required documents to the Chapter Chairman, in the order described in the instructions.

Please see attached NYS DAR - Polly F Burke

DEADLINE: March 1, 2026

NYS DAR Scholarship

The object of the NYS DAR Scholarship is to financially assist deserving high school SENIORS (male or female) in acquiring a higher education in a college or university in NYS.

The expected amount of the award is $2000.00 ($500.00 each year for four years).  The amount may vary from year to year depending on funds available, since only the interest from the fund may be used.

Applicants must be a student in the upper fourth of their graduating class, must reside in NYS and be a US Citizen, and must attend an accredited four year college or university in NEW YORK STATE.  

In the event that the scholarship recipient does not complete his/her program or successfully acquires his/her degree in less than four years, the scholarship shall be terminated and the runner-up candidate for that year will be eligible to receive the balance of the scholarship.

The applicants should submit the following documents to the sponsoring DAR chairperson (Carolyn Oatman, 6 Hawks View, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472):

• Completed application form (see uploaded file titles “NYS DAR”)

• An official high school transcript

• A letter of recommendation from the Principal, Counselor or head of an academic department

• A goal statement letter from the applicant stating personal education plans and ultimate career objective.

• Proof of birth (e.g. photocopy of birth certificate) or proof of naturalization

Please see attached NYS DAR application 

DEADLINE: January 15, 2026

Helen and Arnold Barben Scholarship

The object of the Helen and Arnold Barben Scholarship is to financially assist deserving young WOMEN in acquiring a higher education with a view to their becoming better prepared for life and citizenship.

The expected amount of the award is $2000.00 ($500.00 each year for four years).  The amount may vary from year to year depending on funds available, since only the interest from the fund may be used.

Applicants must be FEMALE high school SENIORS, must reside in NYS, must have been born in the United States, must attend an accredited four year college or university.

In the event that the scholarship recipient should successfully acquire a college degree in less than four years and is continuing graduate studies, they may request the remainder of the award from the State Scholarship Chairman.

The applicants should submit the following documents to the sponsoring DAR chairperson (Carolyn Oatman, 6 Hawks View, Honeoye, NY 14472):

• Completed application form (see attached NYS DAR – Helen and Arnold Barben)

• An official high school transcript.

• A letter of recommendation from the Principal, Guidance Counselor, or an Academic Department Head.

• A goal statement from the student including educational plans and ultimate career objective.

• A copy of the student’s birth certificate

Please see attached NYS DAR – Helen and Arnold Barben

DEADLINE: January 15, 2026

Damaris Smith Desimone Scholarship

The object of the Damaris Smith Desimone Scholarship is to financially assist deserving young people in acquiring a higher education in UNITED STATES HISTORY with a view of becoming better prepared for life and citizenship.

The expected amount of the scholarship is a one-time award of $1000.00.  The amount may vary from year to year depending on funds available, since only the interest from the fund may be used.

Applicants must be high school SENIORS planning to major in US HISTORY, must reside in NYS and must attend an accredited four year college or university in the US.

The applicants should submit the following documents to the sponsoring DAR chairperson (Carolyn Oatman, 6 Hawks View, Honeoye, NY 14472):

• Completed application form (see attached NYS-DAR Damaris Smith Desimone)

• An official high school transcript.

• A letter of recommendation from the Principal, Guidance Counselor, or an Academic Department Head.

• A goal statement from the student including educational plans and ultimate career objective.

Please see attached NYS DAR  – Damaris Smith Desimone

DEADLINE – January 15, 2026

Peggy Jo Power Gifford Scholarship

The object of the Peggy Jo Power Gifford Scholarship is to financially assist deserving young people in acquiring a higher education in United States History or Philanthropy with a view to becoming better prepared for life and citizenship.

The amount of the scholarship is a one-time award of $500.00.

Applicant must be:

• Any individual interested in majoring in United States History, Philanthropic Studies or Non-Profit Management is eligible.

• Judged on the basis of merit and achievement with regard to community service, personal and academic interests.

• A resident of New York State

• Attending or applying to attend an accredited two or four year college or university in the United States.

The applicants should submit the following documents to the sponsoring DAR chairperson (Carolyn Oatman, 6 Hawks View, Honeoye, NY 14472):

• Completed application form (see attached NYS-DAR Peggy Jo Power Gifford)

• An official high school transcript.

• A letter of recommendation from the Principal, Guidance Counselor, or an Academic Department Head.

• A goal statement from the student including educational plans and ultimate career objective.

Please see attached NYS DAR – Peggy Jo Power Gifford

DEADLINE: January 15, 2026

Monroe Professional Engineers Society

The Monroe Professional Engineers Society (MPES) is the local chapter of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) and distributes scholarships for graduating high school seniors who plan to study engineering at an ABET accredited college starting the fall of 2025.

Minimum criteria is 600/500 math/verbal SAT score or 29/25 math/english ACT score and 85 or 3.0 GPA.

Average one time scholarship award is $2,000. Over $15,000 worth of scholarships will be awarded.

Applications can be found here, on the MPES website www.monroepes.org or call Bruce Wallmann at 585-738-2670.

DEADLINE: December 23, 2025

NYS Academic Excellence

NYS announces the 2026 Scholarship for Academic Excellence.  Details of the scholarship process can be found in the Bulletin for Candidates.  Fairport High School will be using "Method A: Regents Test Scores" to determine student nominations.  If you have any questions, please see your Guidance Counselor.

NOMINATION DEADLINE:  February 27, 2026

The Cirkled In “No Sweat” Scholarship

To apply for the Cirkled In No Sweat Scholarship, for a chance to win $2,500.  Create an account and tell us your complete story through your profile. No GPA, minimum income or essay requirements. Just be YOU!

DEADLINE:  December 31, 2025

The Summit’s Scholarship

The Summit Federal Credit Union will award scholarships to outstanding high school seniors who are members of The Summit and MUST:

• Be a current member of The Summit and the primary account holder (New members are welcome to apply).

• Be a college bound high school senior for the 2025/2026 school year.

• Be attending college for the first time in the fall of 2026.

• Plan to enroll in either a two- or four-year accredited educational institution in the fall of 2026.

Apply here.

DEADLINE: February 28, 2026

The Summit’s Skilled Trade Scholarship

The Summit Federal Credit Union will award scholarships to eligible high school seniors who are members of The Summit and MUST:

• Be a current member of The Summit and the primary account holder (New members are welcome to apply).

• Be a high school senior for the 2025/2026 school year.

• Plan to pursue an Associate’s Degree, Certificate, or Diploma at a trade school, technical certificate program, or apprentice program for the 2025/2026 academic year.

Apply here.

Deadline: February 28, 2026

NYCUA Rochester Chapter Scholarship

The Rochester Chapter of New York Credit Union Association will be awarding scholarship funds to outstanding high school seniors that are members of participating Rochester Chapter Credit Unions.

A student applying must:

• Have an account in their name and be a member in good standing of a participating credit union.

• Be a college-bound high school senior at the time of application.

• Attend either a two- or four-year accredited educational institution for the first time in the fall of 2026.

• Complete the application and required essay, and obtain the required transcripts.

• Sign the paperwork and get the signature of a parent or guardian as well.

DEADLINE: February 28, 2026

Dr. Aura-Lee A. and James Hobbs Pittenger American History Scholarship

The Dr. Aura-Lee A. and James Hobbs Pittenger American History Scholarship is awarded to one graduating high school student who will pursue an undergraduate degree with a concentrated study of a minimum of 24 credit hours in American History and American Government. Renewal is conditional upon maintenance of a GPA of 3.25.  This scholarship is renewable. This award is intended to promote the study of our country’s history among our finest students. U.S. Citizens residing abroad may apply through a Units Overseas Chapter. The Dr. Aura-Lee A. and James Hobbs Pittenger American History Scholarship is an award of $2,000 each year for up to four years with annual transcript review by the National Chairman required for renewal.

Visit their website to apply.

DEADLINE: January 31, 2026

DAR Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship

The Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship, is a one-time scholarship in the amount of $5,000, is awarded to two students who are in financial need and have been accepted or are attending an accredited school of occupational or physical therapy (including art or music therapy). A letter of acceptance into the program or the transcript noting the applicant is enrolled in the program must be included with the application.

Visit their website to apply.

DEADLINE: January 31, 2026

McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship

The McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship opens doors and transforms futures with $1 million in scholarships awarded to support up to 100 outstanding students across the country, giving them the boost they need to chase their dreams. To date, more than 17,000 students have written their own stories with the help of over $35 million in scholarships. They are proof that dedication, passion and hard work have no limits.

Recipients are selected for their academic achievements, community impact, personal statement, and financial need. For McDonald’s, supporting these students means believing in them and in everything their future holds.

Eligibility:

• You’re a high school senior

• Must be a legal U.S. Resident, U.S. Citizen or a DREAMER/DACA recipient

• You’re under 21 years old

• You carry a minimum 2.8 GPA

• You’re eligible to attend a two- or four-year college, university or vocational/technical school with a full-time course of study

• You’ll disclose other scholarship programs that you’ve applied for

• You’ll enroll and attend an accredited institution in the academic year after your selection (verification needed, as scholarship funds are paid directly to the schools)

For More information, please visit their Eligibility and Requirements page.

To apply, visit their website.

DEADLINE: February 17, 2026

Polish Heritage Society of Rochester

Ten qualifying high school seniors will be awarded a $4,000 scholarship from the Polish Heritage Society. To be eligible for the scholarship, you must be a senior who is of Polish descent (at least one parent) and live in Monroe County or one of the surrounding six contiguous counties. The student is required to have an official copy of his/her academic transcript mailed or emailed by the high school.

Please visit: www.polishheritagerochester.org  or click here for an application.

DEADLINE: February 1, 2026

Scholarship for Environmental Studies

This scholarship provides $1,000 to a high school senior pursuing an undergraduate degree in an environmental stewardship discipline, including environmental studies, natural resource management, the natural sciences, public administration/policy with an environmental focus, or related disciplines. Up to (5) $1,000 scholarships will be awarded each year.

Eligibility:

Eligible applicants must be a graduating high school student pursuing an undergraduate degree in an environmental stewardship discipline. This scholarship is available to students of Fairport High School. Successful recipients may re-apply in subsequent years, although high school seniors will receive priority attention.

For more information, please see attached flyer.

DEADLINE: March 31, 2026 5PM EST

Fairport High School-Minerva DeLand PTSA Sponsored Scholarships

The Fairport High School/Minerva PTSA is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for our annual Senior Scholarships! We are committed to supporting our graduating seniors as they take the next steps toward their future academic and career goals. These scholarships are a wonderful way to recognize your hard work and dedication throughout your time at FHS.

Eligibility:

• Must be a graduating senior from FHS who plans to attend an accredited college, university, technical/vocational school, or other post-secondary institution

• Must be a current FHS PTSA member

Two (2) one-time scholarships valued at $250 each will be awarded. 

Scholarships will be awarded at the FHS Awards Program held in June. If a recipient's plans change before enrollment, it is expected that this scholarship will be returned to the FHS/MD PTSA.

Applications can be found here or in the Guidance Library.

DEADLINE: February 27, 2026

FEA Scholarship

For 42 years, the Fairport Educators Association has awarded scholarships to outstanding seniors at Fairport High School.  Each year the Fairport Educators raise funds and are proud to be able to select recipients, each of whom will receive $1,000.  Your teachers, grade K-12, wish you the best in this competition and want you to know that the candidates we screen each spring make us very proud.  By choosing to submit this application you demonstrate the qualities, which so impress us. Recipients of this scholarship may use the money for tuition, room supplies, books, a computer, or anything else that directly relates to college needs.  

Applications can be found here or in the Guidance Library.

DEADLINE: February 27, 2026

Rochester Area Community Foundation

The Community Foundation’s scholarship program is accepting applications from students for the 2026-27 academic year!

They have opportunities for:

• Private/parochial high school students;

• High school seniors; 

• Undergraduate, graduate, and vocational/technical students; and 

• Adult students. 

How to apply:

• Visit their website to search for scholarships.

• Apply in their Scholarship Portal.

  • Consolidated Application - let their smart software identify all the scholarships you qualify for in this pool.

• Apply through their community partners.

• Application instructions can be found in the 'Application Process' section on each scholarship page of their website.

DEADLINE: February 28, 2026

Horatio Alger - National Scholarship

The Horatio Alger Association seeks to assist students who have demonstrated integrity, perseverance in overcoming adversity, strength of character, financial need, a good academic record, commitment to pursue a college education, and a desire to contribute to society.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be enrolled full time as a high school junior in the United States

• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited non-profit public or private institution in the United States immediately after high school graduation (students may start their studies at a two-year institution and then transfer to a four-year institution)

• Demonstrate financial need ($100,000 or lower adjusted gross family income is required)

• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities

• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity

• Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0

• Be a United States citizen

Students can apply and learn more by going to their website. 

DEADLINE: March 1, 2026

Horatio Alger - State Scholarship (New York)

The Horatio Alger Association seeks to assist students who have demonstrated integrity, perseverance in overcoming adversity, strength of character, financial need, a good academic record, commitment to pursue a college education, and a desire to contribute to society.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be enrolled full time as a high school junior in New York

• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited non-profit public or private institution in the United States immediately after high school graduation (students may start their studies at a two-year institution and then transfer to a four-year institution)

• Demonstrate financial need ($100,000 or lower adjusted gross family income is required)

• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities

• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity

• Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0

• Be a United States citizen

Students can apply and learn more by going to their website. 

DEADLINE: March 1, 2026

Horatio Alger - Patricia Cole Scholarship

The Horatio Alger Association seeks to assist students who have demonstrated integrity, perseverance in overcoming adversity, strength of character, financial need, a good academic record, commitment to pursue a college education, and a desire to contribute to society.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be enrolled full time as a high school senior in the United States

• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree in business or STEM (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics) at an accredited non-profit public or private institution in the United States immediately after high school graduation

• Demonstrate financial need ($100,000 or lower adjusted gross family income is required)

• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity

• Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5

• Be a United States citizen

Students can apply and learn more by going to their website. 

DEADLINE: March 1, 2026

Horatio Alger - Melvyn N. Klein Scholarship

The Horatio Alger Association seeks to assist students who have demonstrated integrity, perseverance in overcoming adversity, strength of character, financial need, a good academic record, commitment to pursue a college education, and a desire to contribute to society.

• Be enrolled full time as a high school senior in the United States

• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at Baylor University, Colgate University, Columbia University, Stanford University, Tulane University, or University of Texas immediately after high school graduation

• Demonstrate financial need ($100,000 or lower adjusted gross family income is required)

• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity

• Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5

• Be a United States citizen

Students can apply and learn more by going to their website. 

DEADLINE: March 1, 2026

Katharine M. Reichel Award – SUNY Brockport

This fund was established to honor the memory of Katharine Lucille MacLellan Reichel, charter member and first president of Alpha Alpha Chapter. A master teacher, Mrs. Reichel taught high school English in West Irondequoit, Brockport, and Corning and, following her retirement in New York State, she taught at Pierce College in Athens, Greece from 1963 until 1971. She also taught at the University of South Dakota and Prince Royal’s College, Chiengmai, Thailand.

This scholarship is the first of four scholarships to support an outstanding future educator throughout their studies at SUNY Brockport. The recipient may apply for renewal of the Chapter’s support for their second, third and fourth year of study if eligibility is maintained.

Eligible students must:

1. Be accepted for study at SUNY Brockport at the undergraduate level in any academic program that will lead to a career in education.

2. Possess leadership qualities, outstanding academic ability, and potential for success in the education profession as judged by the selection committee.

3. Provide at least one professional recommendation. It is preferred that the recommendation be provided by K-12 school educators such as school counselors, teachers, or administrators.

For more information and to apply, visit their website.

DEADLINE: February 15, 2026

Fairport High School-Minerva DeLand PTSA Sponsored Scholarships

The Fairport High School/Minerva PTSA is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for our annual Senior Scholarships! We are committed to supporting our graduating seniors as they take the next steps toward their future academic and career goals. These scholarships are a wonderful way to recognize your hard work and dedication throughout your time at FHS.

Eligibility:

• Must be a graduating senior from FHS who plans to attend an accredited college, university, technical/vocational school, or other post-secondary institution

• Must be a current FHS PTSA member

Two (2) one-time scholarships valued at $250 each will be awarded. 

Scholarships will be awarded at the FHS Awards Program held in June. If a recipient's plans change before enrollment, it is expected that this scholarship will be returned to the FHS/MD PTSA.

Applications can be found here or in the Guidance Library.

DEADLINE: February 27, 2026

FEA Scholarship

For 42 years, the Fairport Educators Association has awarded scholarships to outstanding seniors at Fairport High School.  Each year the Fairport Educators raise funds and are proud to be able to select recipients, each of whom will receive $1,000.  Your teachers, grade K-12, wish you the best in this competition and want you to know that the candidates we screen each spring make us very proud.  By choosing to submit this application you demonstrate the qualities, which so impress us. Recipients of this scholarship may use the money for tuition, room supplies, books, a computer, or anything else that directly relates to college needs.  

Applications can be found here or in the Guidance Library.

DEADLINE: February 27, 2026

FEA Scholarship winners from 2025

Brianna Carey, Ava Daniels, Jack Gossin, Quay-Marr Ragsdale-Harvey, Amelia Steitz and Madelyn Wagner

Information for the 2025-2026 school year will be posted at a later date.

Urban League Black Scholars Scholarships

https://www.urbanleagueroc.org/scholarships 

The deadline for scholarship submissions will be Tuesday, 4/1/2025. If you need assistance completing the scholarships, please contact Tori Brown (tobrown@ulr.org).

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Rochester College Access Network's College Help Desk Link  

RCAN College Help Desk

Have a specific question about college? Don't know where to start? Need help with your FAFSA? We're here for you! Our College Help Desk team is prepped and on hand to tackle your college questions, no matter how big or small.  I attached RCAN's College Help Desk Flyer to this email for your review.

What can the College Help Desk help you with?

College essays

Searching for scholarships

Financial aid forms (FAFSA and TAP)

Completing college applications and the common app

Exploring colleges and majors

Understanding college costs

Decoding your financial aid offer letter

Families will need to create an account on the ConexED platform to schedule an appointment. It is a straightforward process that entails entering a personal email address and creating a password.

rochestercan.org

College Preparation Videos:

The Black Scholars MCC Financial and Scholarship Overview Presentation:

https://www.facebook.com/ulrochester/videos/735203934062831/?t=0

New York State – offers a variety of grants and scholarships for residents who plan to attend in-state colleges.

Going Merry – gives every student one place from which they can apply to all of their scholarships. We are a company founded by Stanford graduates who all relied on financial aid to pay for college

Cirkledin - an award-winning, all-in-one College & Career Readiness hub built for how Gen Z thinks and learns, helping educators and schools 

www.blackexcel.org – minority student scholarship resource

www.careersandcolleges.com – free scholarship and student loan search 

www.cirkledin.com/scholarships/ - This quarterly scholarship is designed to be easy to apply for —students love it because there is no GPA requirement, no income restrictions and no essay to write      

www.collegeboard.org – everything you need to apply for and pay for college

www.collegesavings.org – detailed information about 529 college savings plans, compare plans around the country

www.college-scholarships.com – search engine for scholarships and aid

www.educationplanner.org – website for thinking about, planning for and paying for college

www.embark.com – college planner website: research, apply, and finance your education

www.fastweb.com – free scholarship search

www.meritaid.com – directory of merit scholarships and academic scholarships listed by colleges

www.nycolleges.org – New York State’s Private Universities and Colleges admissions and financial aid

www.racf.org – The Community Foundation administers scholarship funds in the Greater Rochester Area.

www.scholarshipamerica.org – The nation’s largest administrator of scholarship, tuition assistance and loan programs

www.student-view.com - Complete a 15-20 minute survey from Student Insights for a chance to win a scholarship

www.matchcollege.com – Search through our site to find the school that is right for you. We have over 6,000 colleges and universities listed

www.nextstudent.com – scholarship search engine

www.supercollege.com – free database of scholarships, grants and contests

www.CollegeCovered.com/Assist

www.scholarships.com

www.unigo.com

www.questbridge.org  – QuestBridge is a powerful platform that connects the nation’s brightest students from low-income backgrounds with leading institutions of higher education and further opportunities.

http://www.ulr.org/Programs/YouthEducationDevelopment/BlackScholars/LinkstoOtherScholarships.aspx  - Urban League of Rochester scholarship opportunities

https://www.urbanleagueroc.org/scholarships - Urban League Black Scholars Scholarships

StudentScholarships.org - StudentScholarships.org has been providing scholarship information to students and scholarship management services to companies since 2003.