FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
**1. What is "It Only Gets Lighter From Here Scholarship Fund"?**
The "It Only Gets Lighter From Here Scholarship Fund" is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals aged 30 or older who are pursuing their first degree. We provide scholarships to help eliminate financial barriers and empower non-traditional students with limited incomes to achieve their academic and career goals.
**2. Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?**
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be 30 years of age or older.
- Be pursuing their first degree at an accredited
college, university, or trade school.
- Be enrolled as a full-time student (minimum of
15 credits per semester).
- Have an annual income of $75,000 or less.
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
**3. How much are the scholarships worth?**
We offer two scholarships: one valued at $2,500 and another valued at $5,000. The funds can be used for tuition, educational materials, and living expenses while attending school.
**4. How can I apply for the scholarship?**
You can apply by visiting our website and completing the scholarship application form or by clicking here. You will need to submit an essay about your story and goals, proof of full-time enrollment, and up to two letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, family, or friends.
**5. What is the application deadline?**
The application period opens on March 1st and closes on May 24th. Recipients will be chosen by May 31st.
**6. How are the scholarship funds dispersed?**
Scholarship funds are dispersed in four installments:
- The first installment is provided at the start of the academic year.
- The remaining three installments are provided upon proof of maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0 for each semester.
**7. Can I use the scholarship funds for living expenses?**
Yes, the scholarship funds can be used for both educational expenses and living expenses while you are attending school.
**8. How many scholarships are awarded each year?**
Currently, we award two scholarships each year, but we aim to increase this number as we grow and secure more funding.
**9. How is the scholarship recipient selected?**
Recipients are selected based on their application, including the essay, letters of recommendation, and proof of enrollment. The selection committee reviews all applications and chooses recipients who best align with the mission and values of our organization.
**10. Can I apply if I am attending an online school?**
Yes, as long as the online school is accredited and you are enrolled full-time, you are eligible to apply.
**11. What happens if I fail to maintain the required GPA?**
If you fail to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, you may not be eligible for the subsequent installments of the scholarship. However, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your situation and explore possible solutions.
**12. Can previous recipients apply again?**
No, previous recipients of either scholarship are not eligible to apply again. We aim to support as many individuals as possible. However, previously applicants who did not receive a scholarship are encouraged to apply again
**13. How can I donate to the scholarship fund?**
You can donate by visiting our website and clicking on the "Donate" button. We accept donations via credit card, PayPal, and checks. Your support helps us continue to empower non-traditional students.
**14. How can I get involved with the organization?**
We welcome volunteers to help with various aspects of our organization, including fundraising, event planning, and administrative tasks. Please visit our website and fill out the volunteer form to get involved.
**15. Who can I contact for more information?**
For more information, please contact us at info@itonlygetslighter.org. We are happy to answer any additional questions you may have.
