Seeking Information on the Alabama CollegeCounts Scholarship

I'm a high school junior in Alabama looking into potential scholarships, and I came across the Alabama CollegeCounts Scholarship. I understand it's available to residents, but I’m not entirely sure about the specific eligibility requirements or the application process.

If you've applied for this scholarship before, could you share your experience? What does the selection committee really look for in applicants? Any assistance or advice on maximizing my chances would be greatly appreciated!

The Alabama CollegeCounts Scholarship is a great program, especially for in-state students who plan to stay in Alabama for college. The exact eligibility criteria have tended to vary slightly over the years but the main factors have generally stayed the same.

To be eligible for the Alabama CollegeCounts Scholarship, you should be a high school senior or first-time college freshman beginning in fall 2025 with a minimum 2.75 GPA and an ACT of 29 or below (if not attending a two-year school).

The scholarship application typically opens in early December and concludes towards the end of February.

In terms of selection, financial need and academic merit are both significant factors. That said, applicants should emphasize beyond their grades and test scores. The scholarship committee also values community involvement, leadership experiences, and work ethic. In those short answer sections, make sure your passion for your future studies and your commitment to staying in Alabama come through, as the scholarship committee looks for these in applicants.

Keep in mind that the awarded scholarship amount often depends on the type of institution (two-year or four-year). For example, winners attending a two-year school receive $2,000 a year, while winners attending a four-year school receive $4,000 a year, both for up to 4 years, given that terms continue to be met.

Good luck on your application journey; the Alabama CollegeCounts Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity!