To be considered for more than one scholarship, do I need to fill out multiple applications?
Yes. You must submit an original GCRCF application along with five copies of the application for each scholarship applied for. Be sure to include copies of all additional attachments. Do not use staples or report covers. Please collate each copy in the same order as the original and clip together.
When are scholarship awards made?
For the majority of scholarships, recipient selection is usually completed by late May. All applicants and recipients selected will receive notification via United States mail once selections are complete.
Who selects scholarship recipients?
Committees made up of community members, including educators and other professionals, award selected scholarships. The committees meet in April to make recommendations based on donor criteria.
How is financial need determined?
Completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form is required for scholarships based on financial need. After you have completed the FAFSA you will receive a Statement of Estimated Family Contribution (EFC), a copy of the EFC must be sent to the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation by February 29, 2012, in order to be considered for need-based scholarships. To file for the FAFSA online, visit: http://www.fafsa.edu.gov/.
Are transcripts and recommendations needed?
Yes. If you are currently in high school or have recently graduated from high school provide a copy of your official high school transcript. Provide one copy for each scholarship that you are applying for.
If you have completed a GED or received a high school diploma through an alternative program, please submit proof of completion along with your completed scholarship application.
Submit recommendations as requested by each scholarship, typically one academic and one non-academic. Recommendations that further illustrate how you fit the specific scholarship criteria are the most beneficial to you.
If I am awarded a scholarship, how long will I receive funding?
Most scholarships are for one academic year. The total amount for the year is sent to the educational institution in the student’s name in early fall after required documents are received. The institution is asked, if the award amount is more than $1,000, to split the total amount between the fall and spring semesters equally. In most cases, once that academic year is concluded, the scholarship funding will cease. If you have received a scholarship that is renewable, then you must reapply for second-year funding.
May I defer my scholarship award?
Most scholarship awards must be collected by December 31st of the year awarded.
Tips for Success:
1. Follow all the instructions with care, pay attention to required information and supporting documentation needs for specific scholarships.
2. Make sure the information you provide explains your interest in the academic program you have chosen and why you believe you deserve a scholarship. If you meet specific scholarship criteria, be sure to include that information in your essay.
3. Be sure to include any additional requirements (letters of recommendation, transcripts, et cetera) that specific scholarships may request, and check instructions for any special application processes or other requirements.
4. Applicants are responsible for providing correct and complete information. GCRCF will not contact the applicant to request additional information should the application materials be incomplete.
Questions for the GCRCF Contact Rochelle Naylor, Scholarship Coordinator, at 319.366.2862 or scholarships@gcrcf.org.
