The National ACO Scholarships, Inc. originated as a project of The National Association of Commissioned Officers, NOAA. Its original purpose was to assist students of the NOAA family in funding their higher education goals.
The National ACO Scholarships, Inc. exists to promote the values of public service, leadership, and education by awarding scholarships to qualified students who demonstrate commitment to making a difference in their communities and beyond. Our organization supports future leaders in science, public safety, and service through education, guided by the mission and traditions of the National Association of Commissioned Officers of NOAA.
The scholarship application is open to anyone pursuing an undergraduate degree. Applicants must have a high school diploma (or be expecting one) and have applied or been accepted to an institution of higher learning. While it is not required to have a NOAA Corps sponsor, preference is given to those with affiliation to the NOAA Corps or current OMAO Professional Mariners.
Scholarships are awarded on the basis of scholastic aptitude, accomplishment in and out of school, career goals, and financial need.
Applications are usually open in late January, with a deadline of April 15. Applications are evaluated by the committee in May or June, with awardees being alerted shortly after. Funds are dispersed in July or August.
Applications are submitted through a google form. There is a new form for each scholarship year.
2026 ACO Scholarship Application Form
Scholarships are usually between $1000 and $3000 depending on the number and qualifications of the applicants. The corporation understands college is more expensive than that, but every little bit helps!
Donations can be made by check payable to “National ACO Scholarship, Inc.” All donations are tax deductible and a receipt will be provided. Checks can be mailed to the address below, if you need additional ways to donate, please send an email to: NationalACOScholarships@gmail.com
National ACO Scholarship, Inc.
P.O. Box 13083
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Email: NationalACOScholarships@gmail.com
Mail:
National ACO Scholarship, Inc.
P.O. Box 13083
Silver Spring, MD 20910
More about the National ACO Scholarships, Inc. (the fine print):
To obtain the legal benefits of a tax exempt organization, the Scholarship Fund was organized as a corporation in the State of Maryland. It is exclusively for educational and charitable purposes. It has been recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization.
Members of the corporation include its directors, officers and members designated from time-to-time by the Executive Committees of NOAA ACO chapters, as well as representatives from the former U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey Heritage Society.
Funds are received from donations, memorials, and investment earnings. Outlays for scholarships will not usually exceed current income.