Established in 1996, the Ron Brown Scholarship Program provides academic scholarships, leadership experiences, and service opportunities for young African Americans of outstanding promise. Upon acceptance, the scholars are awarded $40,000 each ($10,000 per year for four years toward educational expenses) that can be used to cover the cost of tuition, books, fees, computers, health insurance and other college related expenses at any college or university of their choice . Scholarships are not limited to any specific career or field and can be used to pursue any academic discipline. However, financial aid is only one aspect of this comprehensive program. In reality, it is much more than financial assistance to cover tuition and textbooks.
Ron Brown Scholars who are committed to social change find themselves within a community of ongoing support and referrals. They are provided with the mentorship and nurturing that is required to succeed and flourish in college and beyond.
Eligibility requirements for the Ron Brown Scholarship Program
Interested applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be Black/African American
- Must excel academically
- Must exhibit exceptional leadership potential
- Must participate in community service activities
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Must be a US citizen or hold a permanent resident visa
- Must be a current high school senior student at the time of your application. (Note: Current college students are not eligible to apply)
How to apply for the scholarship program
To apply for the Ron Brown Scholarship program, you need to download and print a four page application form from the website. Then mail the completed application to the address mentioned on the form along with transcripts and letters of recommendation. Make sure to mail everything together in the same packet and not separate covers. Incomplete, faxed, or emailed applications will not be considered.
January 9, 2015 is the final postmarked deadline in order to be considered for the Ron Brown Scholar Program only. So hurry, apply now at https://www.ronbrown.org/section/apply/rbsp-application.
