The Horatio Alger Association honors the achievements of outstanding students who have succeeded desspite adversity. The award is funded in honor of Association Member John W. Rollins, Sr.
Applicants must have a strong commitment to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree at an accredited institution. Each applicant must also demonstrate involvement in co-curricular and community activities.
State scholarships are awarded to eligible students in all fifty states and the District of Columbia. The scholarships are funded by Horatio Alger Members who, like the Scholars, have experienced challenges but ultimately overcame them to become successful business and civic leaders.
For a full listing of Horatio Alger Scholarship Programs, please click here.
To be eligible to apply for a Horatio Alger Nationwide State Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled full-time as a high school senior in the United States; be progressing normally toward graduation in spring/summer of 2019 with plans to enter a college in the United States no later than the fall following graduation
- Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited non-profit public or private institution in the United States (students may start their studies at a two-year institution and then transfer to a four-year institution)
- Demonstrate critical financial need ($55,000 or lower adjusted gross family income is required)
- Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities
- Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
- Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0; and
- Be a United States citizen
The total value of this award is $10,000, paid out in installments annually. If the student receives this award he/she is guaranteed the funding for the full 5 years by maintaining a grade point average of 2.0 or higher. This award is non-renewable.
Applications are available online from the Horatio Alger Association website.
How to Write a Winning Scholarship Essay
Have a great story to tell, but not sure where to start? A scholarship essay is your opportunity to move your application package to the top of the pile. But, many students struggle with essay writing.
“The essay is your megaphone — your view of the world and your ambitions. It’s not just a resume or a regurgitation of everything you’ve done. It needs to tell a story with passion, using personal, entertaining anecdotes that showcase your character, your interests, your values, your life experiences, your views of the world, your ambitions and even your sense of humor,” explains Janet Morrissey for the New York Times.
No matter what topic you select, the essay must be exceptionally well written, perfect in grammar, spelling and punctuation, AND a compelling, memorable read.
It’s a tall (and somewhat terrifying) order for most seniors who are already overburdened juggling multiple, high level classes, sports practices, community service, and sometimes even a part-time job.
Back to Basics Learning Dynamics in Wilmington, Nationwide can help with expert 1-on-1 tutoring in essay writing. Back to Basics tutors will never write an essay for you, but will provide crucial expertise in crafting college essays, high school essays, scholarship essays, and teach you a host of essential college-level writing skills.
For more tips, visit our article How to Win Scholarships. To learn more about 1-on-1 tutoring for high school, college and scholarship essay writing in Wilmington, Nationwide, please contact Back to Basics Learning Dynamics at 302-594-0754.
