The Engebretson Foundation Scholarship supports students with academic excellence and financial need, easing the burden of tuition.
It provides an opportunity for those without other financial aid options, helping them pursue higher education.
This scholarship plays a crucial role in helping students achieve their educational and career goals.
If you are eligible, it could be a significant step toward your future success.
About the Engebretson Foundation Scholarship
The Engebretson Foundation Scholarship was created to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity.
Designed for high-achieving high school seniors who demonstrate both academic excellence and significant financial need, this award helps make college more accessible for students who may otherwise struggle to afford it.
Unlike many scholarships that favor one qualification over another, this one values both brainpower and financial hardship equally.
If you are a class valedictorian or simply someone who worked tirelessly to rank in the top 5%, this scholarship offers a meaningful chance to reach your educational dreams without being weighed down by cost.
Eligibility for the Engebretson Foundation Scholarship
To apply for the Engebretson Foundation Scholarship, students must meet several key eligibility requirements that ensure they are a good fit for this prestigious award.
Here is a breakdown of the primary criteria:
1. Academic Performance
The scholarship seeks students with strong academic performance, demonstrated through GPA and standardized test scores:
GPA
Applicants must maintain a strong academic record with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.75 or rank in the top 5% of their graduating class.
This demonstrates the academic excellence the scholarship seeks to support.
Standardized Test Scores
Students are required to have impressive scores on standardized tests. A minimum ACT composite score of 28 or an SAT score of 1240 is typically expected.
This ensures that students have the academic foundation necessary to succeed in higher education.
2. Financial Need
Financial need is a key eligibility factor, requiring FAFSA submission and the Student Aid Report (SAR):
FAFSA Submission
One of the primary factors for eligibility is demonstrating financial need. Applicants must have submitted their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and received their Student Aid Report (SAR), which contains the Student Aid Index (SAI).
Although Pell Grant eligibility is not a requirement, showing financial need through the FAFSA is an important aspect of the application process.
3. Enrollment and Residency
Applicants must be U.S. high school seniors, set to graduate, and pursue their first year of higher education:
High School Graduation
Applicants must be high school seniors in the United States and on track to graduate. The scholarship is specifically aimed at students preparing for their first year of higher education.
College Enrollment
The scholarship is open to students planning to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S.
This is an opportunity for high-achieving students to receive financial assistance as they pursue a bachelor’s degree.
4. Age and Grade Level Restrictions
There are no age restrictions, but applicants must be high school seniors planning to attend college right after graduation:
Age Limit
There are no specific age restrictions for the Engebretson Foundation Scholarship; however, applicants must be in their senior year of high school and planning to attend college immediately following graduation.
Students who have completed their high school education prior to the application year may not be eligible unless they meet specific circumstances outlined in the scholarship guidelines.
5. Additional Conditions
Students with dual enrollment credits are eligible, and applicants must submit a teacher recommendation highlighting their academic abilities and character:
Dual Enrollment
Students who have earned college credits through dual enrollment programs during high school are eligible to apply for the scholarship.
This allows high school students who are already excelling in college-level coursework to receive funding.
Teacher Recommendation
Applicants must submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher who can speak to their academic abilities, character, and potential.
This provides insight into the student’s qualifications beyond just test scores and GPA.
Scholarship Award Details
The Engebretson Foundation Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based award designed to support high-achieving U.S. high school seniors pursuing higher education.
Here is a detailed overview of the scholarship’s award specifics:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Award Amount | $10,000 per semester, totaling $20,000 for the academic year. |
| Disbursement | One-time payment per semester, directly to the recipient’s college or university. Reapply each year based on continued eligibility. |
| Use of Funds | Primary allocation for tuition. Course materials. Housing and meal plans (on-campus/off-campus). |
How to Apply for the Engebretson Foundation Scholarship
The Engebretson Foundation Scholarship supports high-achieving U.S. high school seniors heading to college.
Here’s your roadmap to complete the application process and put your best foot forward.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before starting, make sure you meet all the requirements, including academic performance standards, standardized test scores, and financial need criteria.
This scholarship targets students who excel academically but need financial support for higher education. Don’t waste time on applications you’re not qualified for; review these basics first.
Step 2: Download and Complete Application Forms
Get the official application form and teacher recommendation form from the foundation. Fill out your application with accurate personal and academic information; double-check everything before moving forward.
Sloppy applications often get tossed, so take your time here. Make sure your handwriting is legible if filling in by hand.
Application Form:https://www.engebretsonfoundation.org/docs/application.pdf
Teacher Recommendation Form: https://www.engebretsonfoundation.org/docs/recommendation.pdf
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Collect your official high school transcript, ACT/SAT score reports, and Student Aid Report from FAFSA. You’ll also need that teacher recommendation letter, so give your teacher plenty of notice.
Consider asking a teacher who knows your work well and can speak to your character and academic abilities.
Step 4: Write Your Personal Essay and Resume
Craft a compelling 750-word essay explaining your goals, achievements, and why you deserve this scholarship. Keep it genuine and focused.
Also, prepare a resume listing your extracurricular activities, work experience, and community service. Show them you’re well-rounded, not just academically strong.
Step 5: Submit Everything via Email
Send your completed application and all supporting documents to info@engebretsonfoundation.org. Put your full name in the subject line for easy identification.
Double-check that you’ve included everything before hitting send: incomplete applications won’t be considered.
Important Reminder: Applications are due March 1st each year with no exceptions for late submissions.
Tips for a Successful Application
Start early, follow instructions, highlight achievements, seek feedback, and proofread carefully to ensure a polished, error-free application:
- Start Early: Begin the application process well in advance to gather all necessary documents and information.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Ensure you complete all sections of the application and provide all required documents.
- Highlight Achievements: Emphasize your academic accomplishments, leadership roles, and community involvement in your essay and resume.
- Seek Feedback: Have a teacher, counselor, or mentor review your application materials before submission.
- Proofread: Check for any errors or inconsistencies in your application to present a polished and professional submission.
Important Dates & Timeline
To ensure a smooth application process for the Engebretson Foundation Scholarship, it’s crucial to adhere to the following key dates and timelines:
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Deadline | March 1, 2025 | All application materials must be submitted by this date. Late submissions will not be considered. |
| Notification Date | April 2025 | The Engebretson Foundation will notify the selected recipient. Only the winning recipient will be contacted. |
| Award Disbursement Timeline | Fall 2025 Semester | Scholarship funds will be disbursed at the beginning of the fall semester. Recipients should coordinate with their financial aid office. |
Conclusion
The Engebretson Foundation Scholarship offers an invaluable opportunity for high-achieving students to pursue their higher education goals with financial support.
By meeting the eligibility criteria, following the application process carefully, and submitting all required documents on time, applicants can enhance their chances of securing this prestigious award.
The scholarship not only helps with tuition fees but also contributes to essential expenses like books, supplies, and room and board.
For eligible students, this scholarship is a significant step toward achieving academic and career aspirations.
Be sure to adhere to deadlines and guidelines to make your application as strong as possible.
