What Is the Christian Herter Scholarship and How Do You Apply?

I've heard about the Christian Herter Scholarship but I'm not entirely sure what it covers or who is eligible. Can anyone explain what this scholarship is all about and how I might apply for it? I'm curious if there's anything specific I need to qualify or something unique about its selection process.

The Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship is a state financial aid opportunity available to Massachusetts residents. It's a competitive program that awards academic scholarships to students who demonstrate ability, aptitude, and promise but whose socio-economic backgrounds and environmental conditions may inhibit their ability to pursue higher education.

The scholarship covers up to half of a student's calculated need at an accredited post-secondary institution, including tuition, room and board, books, and transportation. The award amount considers the financial situation of the student and can be combined with other scholarships to cover the full expenses. It's renewable each year, provided the student maintains academic progress satisfactory to the institution they're attending.

Eligibility is based on being a permanent Massachusetts resident, a U.S. citizen, and having completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It's geared towards high school sophomores and juniors, or students who are part of an existing Massachusetts state-funded, means-tested program. It's important to note that financial need, academic promise, and overcoming major adversity are key factors in the selection process.

As for the application process, you'll typically need to complete a Herter Scholarship application, accompanied by biographical information, a description of the adversity you've faced, and essays explaining your academic and career goals. You'll also need at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor who can support your claims of adversity in your application.

The application process usually opens in late-November and financial aid professionals in Massachusetts high schools, colleges, and universities are notified. The deadline is usually in February. Once applications are in, a selection committee screens them in the spring.

It's a great scholarship if you meet the criteria, and if you're in Massachusetts, I recommend keeping an eye out for when the application opens in November. And remember, because it's a competitive scholarship, it's vital to make your application stand out by thoroughly explaining how you've overcome adversity and what your future academic goals are.