2025-26 Shawn Carter Foundation National Scholarship Application
Description
The Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund (SCSF) was founded on the belief that any motivated individual in need should have the opportunity to further his or her education. By removing some of the financial burdens associated with going to, surviving in, and graduating from college, the SCSF plays a vital role in increasing college access and success for many motivated yet underserved youth and young adults.
The SCSF provides individual grants, paid directly to the educational institution, to every student who qualifies and reapplies yearly, from admission to graduation. The grant can be used to cover tuition expenses and related supplemental educational expenses such as books, lab fees, travel and select costs of living.
All Shawn Carter Scholars are required to “give back” by conducting community service and by serving as mentors to younger, aspiring Shawn Carter Scholars.
For over twenty years, the Shawn Carter Foundation has been committed to bridging the opportunity gap that exists across the education system.
We firmly believe that nothing should prevent any individual from reaching their highest potential.
Selection Process
High school seniors, GED diploma holders, undergraduate students at 2 or 4-year colleges/universities, as well as students attending trade/technical/vocational schools who meet the requirements below are eligible to apply:
Applicant Criteria:
US Citizen or Permanent Resident
25 years old or younger
Minimum 2.0 GPA - First-time scholarship recipients generally have GPAs between 2.0 and 3.0 (students with GPAs above this range are still encouraged to apply)
Demonstrated Financial Need - On average, selected applicants have an annual household adjusted gross income (AGI) of $75,000 or less
Students pursuing their first undergraduate degree at an accredited, degree-granting institution