Bright Flight
for 2026 High School Seniors
To qualify for the Bright Flight scholarship, students must score in the top 5 percent of all Missouri students taking either the ACT or SAT exam. Award amounts are tiered based on whether the student’s score is in the top 3 percent or the top fourth and fifth percentiles. The ACT composite scores required for Bright Flight eligibility for the 2026-2027 college academic year are the same as last year for the top 3 percent and the fourth and fifth percentiles.
The following table displays the qualifying ACT scores for the 2026 high school graduates.
Top 3 Percent - 32 or above
Top 4th and 5th Percentiles - 30 or 31
Although the qualifying ACT scores have remained constant for the last several years, it is important that students and parents understand the qualifying scores are subject to change annually. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must achieve the qualifying score announced during their senior year in high school on or before the June national test date immediately following high school graduation. Since college academic years begin on July 1 and end on June 30, the July national test falls into the academic year immediately following students’ high school graduation.
The SAT scores required for 2026 high school seniors are not yet available. The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development will provide those scores as soon as we receive them from the College Board.
Students scoring in the top 3 percent are eligible for an annual award of up to $3,000. The actual award amount for the 2026-2027 college academic year won’t be available until the summer of 2026 after the governor has signed the appropriation bill. Students scoring in the top fourth and fifth percentiles are eligible for an annual award of up to $1,000.
University of Missouri-Columbia, Sam Walton Scholarship
Amount: This renewable scholarship provides $7,500 per year prior to receiving the BSBA degree.
Description: Sam M. Walton Scholarships in Business are awarded to incoming freshmen and current college students majoring in economics, finance, international business, management, or marketing at the MU College of Business. Accountancy majors are not eligible for the Walton Scholarship. Completion of FAFSA is required. You must apply to Mizzou no later than November 15, to gain access to scholarship applications.
Due date: General scholarship application is required and December 1-Sam Walton application is due January 15
University of Missouri-Columbia, Robert J. Trulaske Scholarship
Amount: The scholarship provides $9,500 per year and is renewable for a maximum of four years (eight semesters).
Description: Robert J. Trulaske (pronounced: "true-lask"), Sr. Scholarships in Business are awarded to students pursuing degrees from the MU College of Business. This scholarship assists very good students who do not meet the qualifications for Bright Flight or other excellence-based scholarship programs such as the Curator, Excellence and Brooks Scholarships. Completion of FAFSA is required.
You must apply to Mizzou no later than November 15, to gain access to scholarship applications. Due date: General scholarship application is required and due December 1-Trulaske application is due January 15
Soy Scholarships
The Soy Scholarship is a $7,000 one-time scholarship award presented to a current, eligible high school senior planning to pursue a degree in agriculture at an accredited college or university. The scholarship is managed by the American Soybean Association (ASA) and is made possible through a grant by BASF Corporation. The senior must be a child or grandchild of an ASA member.
Due date: December 31, 2025
AGCMO Education Foundation Scholarships
The AGC of Missouri Education Foundation sponsors a scholarship program that helps to provide individuals with financial assistance so that they can pursue careers within a broad spectrum of career opportunities in the construction industry. Each application will be considered for one of the scholarships listed below. You need to only submit one application.
AGCMO Education Foundation Scholarship Application
Due date: December 31, 2025
Missouri State Society of Daughters of the American Revolution Scholarships
The following scholarships are offered by MSSDAR - More information and qualifications can be found at the website listed below.
Irene and Leeta Wagy Memorial Scholarship - A one-time preferred amount of $1,000 awarded to a woman pursuing a degree in education.
Dorothy Poikert Memorial Scholarship - A one-time amount of $500 awarded to a student pursuing a degree in business.
Roberta Capps American History Scholarship - $1,000 will be given to a student who will have a concentrated study of a minimum of 24 credit hours in American History and Government while in college. More information can be found at: https://mssdar.org/mssdar-scholarships/
Paper Copies in the CHS office
PDF available at: https://mssdar.org/mssdar-scholarships/
Due Date: January 1, 2026
The Mediacom World Class Scholars Scholarship
Just like most families, the Mediacom family believes in the importance of higher education. As a corporation with strong community roots, we want to support the higher education of our customers. For this reason, we formed World Class – The Mediacom Scholarship Program to help graduating high school students with their college expenses, such as tuition and books. Through the World Class program, Mediacom awards $1,000 scholarships to winning applicants.
Apply online: Mediacom World Class Scholars Application
Due date: January 5, 2026
The Paul Kincaid JAG Scholarship
Must be a member of JAG - See Mrs. Strom for help with applying.
Paper Copies are available in the CHS office, but you must apply online with Mrs. Storm.
Opens Monday, October 13th, and is DUE January 5th.
Paul Kincaid JAG Scholarship PDF
Paper copies available in the CHS office.
Due date: January 5, 2026
DECA Student Scholarships
DECA’s scholarship program provides over $200,000 in scholarships to high school and college DECA members at the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) each year. DECA Inc. administers the program based on guidelines set by the donor. DECA scholarships are strictly merit-based.
DECA Scholarship Application
Due date: January 9, 2026
The Missouri State Fair Youth in Agriculture Scholarships
Applications should be submitted to the Missouri State Fair and must be postmarked by January 15, 2026. Applicants must submit an original copy of their application and three additional copies.
The following scholarships will be awarded in 2026:
one $5,000 S. Wayne Yokley Platinum Scholarship sponsored by Youth in Agriculture supporters,
one $3,500 Sharon Topliff Scholarship sponsored by Youth in Agriculture supporters,
one $2,500 supreme scholarship sponsored by Sydenstricker Nobbe Partners/Sydenstricker Genetics,
four $2,500 supreme scholarships sponsored by the Missouri State Fair Foundation,
and numerous $1,500 (plus) scholarships sponsored by Youth in Agriculture supporters.
Applicants must be high school seniors, active members of Missouri 4-H or FFA, and have participated at least once as a 4-H or FFA exhibitor at the Missouri State Fair. Selected students must enroll (fall and/or spring semester immediately following graduation from high school) in an accredited community college, tech/trade school, college or university.
Applications available online: MSF Youth in Ag Scholarship
Paper copies in the CHS office
Due date: Must be postmarked by January 15, 2026
New UMKC Scholarship Opportunity
We’re excited to share a new opportunity for your high-achieving students! UMKC has introduced the Blue & Gold Distinguished Scholarship, awarding $7,500 per year to first-year students who qualify.
Students with an ACT of 30+ (or SAT equivalent) and a high school core GPA of 3.65 or above will receive this award. To be considered, students must apply to UMKC by January 15.
Apply to UMKC
Scholarship information
Due date: January 15, 2026
University of Missouri-Columbia, Ponder Freshman Minority Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Description: H.R. & Alberta B. Ponder Minority Scholarships are awarded to incoming freshmen and current college students majoring in accountancy, economics, finance, international business, management, or marketing at the MU College of Business. The primary qualifications are being a minority, academic achievement, and financial need (you must fill out the FAFSA). You must apply to Mizzou no later than November 15, to gain access to scholarship applications.
Due date: General scholarship application is required and due December 1-Ponder application is due January 15
Missouri State Society Daughters of the American Revolution-Nash Music Scholarship
Applicants must prepare a 600 word essay, 4 letters of recommendation, transcript, list of activities, photocopy of birth certificate, and provide a CD or DVD of a performance. More information can be found at: https://mssdar.org/mssdar-scholarships/
Paper Copies in the CHS office
Online applications available at https://mssdar.org/mssdar-scholarships/
Due date: Postmarked by January 15, 2026
Mensa Education and Research Foundation Scholarship Essay Contest
The Mensa Education & Research Foundation college scholarship program bases its awards totally on essays written by the applicants. Consideration is not given to grades, academic program or financial need.
For more information and the online application, please go to www.mensafoundation.org/scholarships.
Due date: January 15
University of Missouri-Columbia, The Allan L. Bridgford, Jr. Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to an incoming freshman student pursuing a degree from MU’s Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business. Only one scholarship is awarded each year. The primary qualifications are academic achievement & financial need (you must fill out the FAFSA). Special emphasis is placed on students who have exhibited business interests through work experience and/or other related activities. Applicants should also evidence of leadership ability and other activities. The scholarship provides $12,500 per year and is renewable for a maximum of four years (eight semesters). Recipient must maintain a 3.25 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale. Recipient shall work 10-12 hours per week during the academic year, or 30 hours during the summer.You must apply to Mizzou no later than November 15, to gain access to scholarship applications. Due date: General scholarship application is required and due December 1-Bridgford application is due January 15
Due date: January 15, 2026
Automotive Women's Association Scholarships
Scholarships are selected by the Scholarship Committee and awarded quarterly to the women with a quest and drive for the automotive, mobility and related industries. It is our hope that with these scholarships, we can lessen the burden on students and allow them to focus on gaining knowledge and further development toward a solid career path in this ever-evolving expansion of global mobility.
Automotive Women's Association Application
Due date: January 16, 2026
Kiwanis - Earl Collins Foundation
Applicants will be rated on their academic achievement, volunteerism, honors, and financial need. Two letters of recommendation are required, along with a statement of your educational goals, which are to be attached.
Kiwanis - Earl Collins Foundation
Paper copies are available in the CHS office.
Due date: January 23, 2026, to Mrs. Scott
The Carroll County Quail Forever Scholarship
Description: Four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to Carroll County Seniors who plan to pursue post-secondary education. Preference may be given to students pursuing an agriculture-related or conservation degree. However, other fields will be considered. Awards will be based on the following criteria: extra-curricular activities, citizenship, community service, work record, and a short essay. A copy of your transcript and ACT scores must be attached.
Applications are to be mailed to: Cathy Benson, 29148 CR 280, Carrollton, MO 64633, and must be postmarked by January 26, 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
The Carroll County Quail Forever Scholarship
Paper copies available in the CHS office.
Due date: January 26, 2026, mailed to Cathy Benson
The Missouri United School Insurance Council Dr. Darrell "Jack" Holley Scholarships
The Missouri United School Insurance Council (MUSIC) encourages you to apply for the Dr. Darrell "Jack" Holley/MUSIC Scholarships.
Only one CHS student will be selected to advance. All applications are to be turned in to Mrs. Scott by January 26, 2026. A local selection committee will select ONE applicant to be submitted for the official Holley scholarship.
The funding of the scholarships is provided by proceeds from the golf tournament and corporate donations. MUSIC members are designated into three enrollment size categories: small, medium, and large. Six scholarships (two in each category) of $2,000.00 each (nonrenewable) will be awarded to 2026 graduating seniors of districts that are MUSIC members.
The Missouri United School Insurance Council Dr. Darrell "Jack" Holley Scholarships
Paper copies are available in the CHS office.
Due date: January 26, 2026, to Mrs. Scott
Missouri Conservation Agents Association Scholarship
The Missouri Department of Conservation will be awarding three scholarships to applicants from Missouri who will be pursuing a degree in Biology, Wildlife Management, Forestry, Fisheries, Ecology, Agriculture, or Criminal Justice. Applicants must have a 2.5 GPA and provide a 50-word essay about why they want the scholarship.
Applications can be found online at MO Conservation
Due date: February 1st
Elks Legacy Award
For the 2026 contest, any child or grandchild (or step-child, step-grandchild, or legal ward) of a living Elk who joined the Order on or before April 1, 2022, or a charter member of a Lodge that was instituted on or after April 1, 2022, is eligible to apply. The Elk must also be a paid-up member through March 31, 2026. Great-grandchildren are not eligible. The applicant must be a high school senior. The applicant must apply online only. If the applicant's parent and grandparent are both Elk members, the applicant must apply through the parent's Elks Lodge. We have waived the standardized test requirement for the 2026 Legacy contest.
The Elks Legacy Award Scholarship Application
Due date: February 2, 2026
MFA Foundation Scholarship
Applicant must be a child or grandchild (including step) of a member-level customer. The student will need to supply the membership number and their relation to the member on the application. Applicants must reside in Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, Arkansas, or Oklahoma and live within a 50-mile radius of an MFA Scholarship Sponsor. Applications will no longer be associated with a school, and all applications will be submitted online this year.
Application available at www.MFAFoundation.com or contact your local store
Due date: February 15
Axtell Scholarship—$5,000 renewable for 3 years.
This scholarship is offered to Seniors in Carroll and Ray counties only. The scholarship is administered through the Truman Heartland Community Foundation. More information about this scholarship and the general application can be found at: https://www.thcf.org/Grant-Scholarship-Seekers/Scholarships/Apply/GeneralApplication#995295-mary-k-axtell-trust-scholarship. This is a $5,000 per year renewable scholarship that we offer for students from Carroll and Ray Counties, through the Mary K. Axtell Trust Scholarship. In order to be eligible for this scholarship, you must apply with the Truman Heartland Community Foundation. You must have a transcript that includes 7 semesters. You can’t send this in until after grades come out in January. The General Application is very basic and will take you about 15 minutes max. When you submit a general application, you will be notified by email about the scholarships for which you are eligible based on the details included in the application. These additional requirements include essays and letters of recommendation from specific people in your life. Several students receive this scholarship.
Application available online: https://www.thcf.org/scholarships/mary-k-axtell-trust-scholarship
Due date: February 16, 2026
Christopher Michael Rose Scholarship - Trades Specific - $10,000
This scholarship was established by the family of Christopher Michael Rose to serve as an enduring memorial of his life. Christopher spent his adult life in Aspen, Colorado, and had many friends who worked in the trades in their community. Christopher's family believes he would want to support people with demonstrated financial need pursuing trade certification programs with this scholarship in his name.
Student must be a graduating high school senior from KS or MO, pursuing an associate degree or technical certification in a vocational, technical, or trade field, must have demonstrated financial need (financial aid could be that the student is responsible for paying for their education), Preference given to applicants who come from underserved populations (first-generation Americans, minorities, etc.)
Application available online: https://www.thcf.org/scholarships/christopher-michael-rose-scholarship
Due date: February 16, 2026
Walters-Magee Scholarship - $5,000 renewable
The Signatry, A Global Christian Foundation, established this scholarship with a bequest from the Walters-Magee family to benefit Christian students from the Kansas City metro area who are pursuing undergraduate degrees in psychology or education. Must be an active member of a Christian church; Must have demonstrated financial need; Must have community service experience; Must have a solid "C" (2.0) or higher cumulative high school GPA; Must be pursuing an undergraduate degree in education or psychology at any accredited junior college, college or university.
Application available online: https://www.thcf.org/scholarships/walters-magee-scholarship
Due date: February 16, 2026
Gene Cable Automotive Scholarship - $5,000 renewable
Gene Cable, owner along with his wife Joanne, of Cable Chevrolet for nearly 40 years, actively served and supported the Eastern Jackson County region both with talent and treasure until his passing in 2022 at the age of 96. Gene and Joanne’s leadership and financial contributions to the community are numerous and led to great respect and admiration from many.
Joanne established this scholarship in memory of Gene in the hopes that it will support others who are pursuing careers in the automotive industry. Must be enrolling full-time in the Associate in Applied Science degree program in Automotive Technology at MCC-Longview; Must have demonstrated financial need.
Application available online: https://www.thcf.org/scholarships/gene-cable-automotive-scholarship
Due date: February 16, 2026
David Sennewald Costello Scholarship
Must be a high school graduate, GED holder, or graduating high school senior
Preference will be given to those who earned a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA in high school. Must be pursuing flight training at ATD Pilot Training LLC to obtain an airplane pilot’s license, certification, or rating. Preference will be given to students with demonstrated financial need.
This is not a renewable scholarship.
Application must include: Resume, Personal Statement Essay elaborating on your educational and career goals and why you feel you should be selected to receive a scholarship, Transcripts showing grades through Fall Semester 2025.
Application is available at: https://www.thcf.org/scholarships/david-sennewald-costello-scholarship
Due date: February 16, 2026
Bogard Living Memorial Scholarship
Criteria include: Must be a Carrollton High School senior, have good citizenship, and be highly motivated towards post-secondary education. This scholarship was established by the Bogard graduating class of ’59. Include in the essay any connections you might have with Bogard; however, if you do not have a connection, please fill out the application anyway. This application can also be found on the following website. You will have to use the fillable PDF https://lmsrandolphmo.wixsite.com/lmscholarships
PDF Copies are available at https://lmsrandolphmo.wixsite.com/lmscholarships
Paper copies are available in the CHS office
Due date: February 16, 2026, to Mrs. Scott
The Hayden Ritchhart #14#24 Scholarship
The Hayden Ritchhart #14#24 Scholarship in the amount of $1,424 will be awarded to
well-rounded students who participated in at least one sport and one other extracurricular activity-
curricular activity and have contributed to the betterment of their school, and or
Community through volunteer service. Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or better and
plan to attend a four-year college or university, or a two-year college.
The Hayden Ritchhart #14#24 Scholarship PDF
Paper copies are available in the CHS Office
Due date: February 25, 2026, to Mrs. Scott
DU National Scholarship Program
Applicants will provide their high school transcript, DU member/volunteer history, a list of any service or academic awards received, and up to three letters of recommendation highlighting their DU involvement and commitment to conservation. In addition, each applicant will write an essay of up to 500 words describing how his or her outdoor experiences have contributed to their understanding of the importance of wetlands and wetlands conservation, and the ways in which he or she has acted and/or intends to act on this knowledge.
DU Application
Due date: March 1, 2026
Marguerite Brown Memorial Scholarship
Must be active in music and going into a medical or health-related career. Must be a graduating Carrollton High School Senior.
Marguerite Brown Memorial Scholarship Application PDF
Paper copies are available in the CHS office.
Due date: March 2, 2026, to Mrs. Scott
Riding for Our Veterans Scholarship
ELIGIBILITY:
Live in one of the eligible counties, be the child or grandchild of a Veteran (stepchildren are eligible), Plan on attending one of the following: 4-year college, 2-year college, tech/trade school, or join the military, and turn in all required documents on time.
Requirements: Provide a copy of the parent/grandparent DD-214 or other proof of Veteran Status, fill out the application, submit an essay as required (attach a 500-word essay + or - 5 words using the topic of: "What is the meaning of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness"
Do not put your name on the essay; staple it to your application.
Attach proof of veteran status of a qualifying veteran
You will be judged on grammar, content, and the ability to follow directions
Riding For Our Veterans Scholarship PDF
Paper copies available in the CHS office.
Due date: March 25, 2026, to Mrs. Scott
Carroll County Cattlemen’s Association (CCCA) and Pork Producers (CCPP) Scholarship
The application must be returned to Mrs. Scott by March 30, 2026
Description: Two $750 scholarships will be awarded to Carroll County seniors pursuing post-secondary education. The family must be a member of the Cattlemen’s Association or Pork Producers. The award will be based on the following criteria:
GPA (minimum of 2.5)
Extracurricular Activities
Citizenship
Community service
Work Record (including work on the family farm)
Essay
Carroll County Cattlemen’s Association (CCCA) and Pork Producers (CCPP) Scholarship
Paper copies available in the CHS office.
Due date: March 30, 2026, to Mrs. Scott
The Parker Minnick Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship is in memory of Parker Minnick, a member of the Carrollton High School Class of 2024. This scholarship will award $1,000.00 to a deserving senior who plans to pursue a degree in a STEM-related field.
The Parker Minnick Memorial Scholarship
Paper copies are available in the CHS office.
Due date: April 1st, 2026 to Mrs. Scott
Kids' Chance of Missouri Scholarship Program
Children with a parent killed or seriously injured in a work-related accident that is compensable under the Missouri Workers' Compensation Law.
Deadlines for submitting completed applications and supporting documents: May 15 Fall & Spring semesters October 30 Spring semester Applications and supporting information should be sent electronically.
Kid's Chance of Missouri Scholarship Application
Due date: May 15 & October 30