Hi! I'm starting to think about how to pay for college and I'm trying to find some scholarships that are specifically for LGBTQ+ students. I know there are some out there, but I’m not really sure where to start looking. Does anyone have a list or know of any organizations that offer these kinds of scholarships?
I'm really curious if there are any specific criteria I should be aware of or if these scholarships can be used at any college. I think it’s great that there are opportunities tailored for LGBTQ+ students, and I want to make sure I don’t miss any. Thanks for any advice!
Hello! It's awesome that you're planning ahead and looking for scholarships. LGBTQ+ students do have some scholarship opportunities that are specifically intended to support them in their college journey.
A good place to start might be the Pride Foundation, which offers a variety of scholarships for LGBTQ+ and allied students from the U.S. Northwest (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, or Washington). The selection for their scholarships is based not only on leadership and involvement in the LGBTQ+ community, but also the financial need of the student.
Another organization that provides support is the Point Foundation. They offer scholarships to LGBTQ+ students and consider a wide array of factors including academic achievement, financial need, leadership, personal goals, and the applicant's involvement in the LGBTQ+ community.
Also, look for the Queer Youth of Faith National Essay Contest. It hosts an annual essay contest for high school seniors on queer-themed topics, and winners are awarded scholarships to pursue their post-secondary education.
Remember, eligibility requirements may vary for each scholarship. Some scholarships may be restricted to specific colleges or fields of study, some may require community involvement, and others may simply require identifying as LGBTQ+. One essential piece of advice is always to check the specifics of each scholarship and make sure you meet the criteria before applying.
I would also suggest reaching out to the financial aid office at the colleges you're interested in. They often have information on scholarships including those dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. Good luck with your search!
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