Available Scholarships
**1. $2,500 "First Light Scholarship"**
**Description:**
The $2,500 "First Light Scholarship" offered by the "It Only Gets Lighter From Here Scholarship Fund" is designed to support non-traditional students aged 30 or older who are pursuing their first degree. This scholarship aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with higher education, allowing recipients to focus on their studies and achieve their academic and career goals.
**Eligibility Criteria:**
- Must be 30 years of age or older.
- Must be pursuing their first degree at an accredited college, university, or trade school.
- Must be enrolled as a full-time student (minimum of 15 credits per semester).
- Must have an annual income of $75,000 or less.
- Must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
**How to Apply:**
- Complete the online scholarship application form.
- Submit an essay detailing your story, challenges, and future goals.
- Provide proof of full-time enrollment.
- Include up to two letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, family, or friends.
**Disbursement of Funds:**
The scholarship funds will be disbursed in two installments:
1. The first installment is provided at the start of the academic year.
2. The remaining installment will be provided before the start of the second semester upon proof of maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0 for first semester
**Use of Funds:**
The scholarship can be used for tuition, educational materials, and living expenses while attending school.
**Application Period:**
Applications open on March 1st and close on May 24th. Recipients will be selected and notified by May 31st.
**2. $5,000 "Illumination Scholarship"**
**Description:**
The $5,000 "illumination Scholarship" is the flagship award of the "It Only Gets Lighter From Here Scholarship Fund," created to provide significant financial support to non-traditional students aged 30 or older who are pursuing their first degree. This scholarship aims to empower recipients by reducing financial barriers, enabling them to excel academically and achieve their professional aspirations.
**Eligibility Criteria:**
- Must be 30 years of age or older.
- Must be pursuing their first degree at an accredited college, university, or trade school.
- Must be enrolled as a full-time student (minimum of 15 credits per semester).
- Must have an annual income of $75,000 or less.
- Must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
**How to Apply:**
- Complete the online scholarship application form.
- Submit an essay detailing your story, challenges, and future goals.
- Provide proof of full-time enrollment.
- Include up to two letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, family, or friends.
**Disbursement of Funds:**
The scholarship funds will be disbursed in four installments:
1. The first installment is provided at the start of the academic year.
2. The remaining three installments are provided upon proof of maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0 for each semester.
**Use of Funds:**
The scholarship can be used for tuition, educational materials, and living expenses while attending school.
**Application Period:**
Applications open on March 1st and close on May 24th. Recipients will be selected and notified by May 31st.
Both scholarships aim to support non-traditional students by providing financial assistance, encouraging academic success, and fostering personal growth and career advancement. We invite all eligible individuals to apply and take the next step towards a brighter future.