Scholarships

Up to three $750 awards will be made each term to students who have worked for social change and whose future goals will be strengthened by a HECUA semester program. Some additional scholarship money is available for January Interim programs. Students must have applied to a HECUA program in order to be eligible. HECUA offers academic programs which emphasize a high level of student involvement in learning with a focus on inequality and ways to bring about change in society. Programs are interdisciplinary, experiential, integrated and include internships, independent study projects and/or small group projects.

All materials below must be received by the scholarship application deadline.

Selection criteria:

1. Your scholarship essay showing the match between your goals and the HECUA program.

2. A strong letter of recommendation.

3. Financial need (students who do not qualify for aid may apply). This is a merit-based scholarship; however, among equally deserving candidates financial need may be considered. Please note in your essay if there are financial considerations. No outside materials (FAFSA forms) are required.

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION DEADLINES:
Dec. 1 – January & Spring Programs
April 15 – Fall Programs
April 15 – Summer Programs

Note: Program application deadlines are earlier.

Required materials:

1. An essay describing past experiences that led to your application and provide specific examples of community work, advocacy, academic courses, travel or employment. Describe how you expect the HECUA program will enable you to further your future goals and projects for social change.

2. A letter of recommendation. Request a letter from a faculty, staff or community person who knows you well and can comment on your commitment to and work towards social change. This letter should be separate and more detailed than the references for your application. It can be the same individual as used previously.

HECUA Supporters—alumni, founders, current and former board and staff members--have established a new scholarship fund earmarked for first generation college students, students from low-income families, and students of color.

During the academic year, two $1,500 scholarships will be awarded to students in the targeted groups who are enrolling in HECUA semester programs. The application to the scholarship fund is due on the same date as the application for the semester program to which the student is seeking admittance.

Application Eligibility Checklist:

______ I am a first generation college student, a
               student from a low-income family, and/or
               a student of color.
______ I am currently enrolled in one of HECUA’s
               member college/university (listed at end
               of page).
______ I have completed & submitted an
               application to a HECUA semester
               program.
______ I have attached my scholarship essay.
______ I have requested or attached a Letter of
               Recommendation

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION DEADLINES:
April 15 – Fall programs
December 1 – Spring programs

Required materials:

1. A reflective essay. The mission of HECUA programs is to equip students with the knowledge, experiences, tools and passion to address issues of social justice and social change. Drawing on your life experiences and your personal and academic goals, describe what you believe you can contribute to and receive from a program with this mission. Please reflect on how such a program will benefit you and the people, issues and communities you care about.

2. A letter of recommendation. Request a letter from a campus faculty or staff member who knows you well and can comment on how your goals match the goals of the scholarship fund and the mission of HECUA.

3. A student aid report. All students who receive federal aid to attend college must complete a FAFSA form. Please attach a copy of this report with your scholarship application materials. If you no longer have a copy of your report, you can obtain one by visiting www.fafsa.ed.gov / Click on “View and Print your Student Aid Report.”