How to Apply for a Scholarship:

GCRCF administers a variety of scholarships to qualified students. The following suggestions will make sure you are considered for all the awards for which you qualify.

• All scholarship application materials are available through the students’ high school counselor or online at http://www.gcrcf.org.
• Fill out the scholarship application completely. Missing information may disqualify you for awards.
• You may qualify for more than one scholarship.
• If you apply for more than one scholarship, you must submit a separate application for each scholarship, plus requested copies for each scholarship.
• Be sure to include all information that demonstrates how you match the criteria for the scholarship(s) of interest.
• Be sure to include any additional attachments (letters of recommendation, transcripts, etc.) required by specific scholarships with your completed scholarship application. Be sure to include the attachments on all copies of the application that are submitted.
  • Transcripts:
    • If you are currently in high school or have graduated from high school, provide a copy of your official high school transcript. If you graduated earlier than five years ago, no transcript is required.
    • If you completed a GED or received a high school diploma through an alternative program, please submit proof of completion along with your scholarship application.
  • The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form is required for scholarship awards based on documented financial need. Upon completion of the federal government form, send it to the address as indicated. (This is the form you fill out to see if you qualify for grants and/or loans.) To be considered for need-based scholarships, this form must be completed and your Statement of Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) included in your application mailed by March 14, 2008. You can also file online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Applications for awards open January 2, 2008. All GCRCF scholarship application materials must be postmarked or hand-delivered to the scholarship office by March 14, 2008. Applications received after this deadline date will not be considered.

Submit all required materials and application to:

Scholarship Office
Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation
200 First Street SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

Scholarship Availability:

• The number of scholarships offered, as well as the criteria in each, may vary from year to year.

Full and Part-time Attendance:

• Unless otherwise noted, all scholarship award amounts are based on full-time attendance with 12 or more credit hours per semester.

Thank You Letters:

• Scholarship recipients must thank the donors who have made their scholarship(s) possible.
• Scholarship funds will not be disbursed until recipient thank you letter(s) are received.
• The scholarship office will forward the thank you letters to the donors. You may wish to include the following points in your thank you note:
  • Express your appreciation for the award.
  • Explain how the scholarship will assist you.
  • Share your educational and career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions:

To be considered for more than one scholarship, do I need to fill out multiple applications?

Yes. You must submit an original and five copies of the application for each scholarship applied for. Be sure to include copies of all additional attachment and collate your applications appropriately.

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?

Special committees award selected scholarships. The committees meet in April to make recommendations based on donor criterion.

How is financial need determined?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form is required for scholarships awards based on financial need. Upon completion of the federal government form, send it to the address as indicated. (This is the form you complete to see if you qualify for grants and/or loans). After you have completed the FAFSA you will receive a Statement of Estimated Family Contribution (EFC), this will need to be forwarded to the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation by March 14, 2008 in order to be considered for need-based scholarships. To file 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 nonacademic.  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 awards are split evenly between the upcoming fall and spring semesters. Once the current academic year is concluded, your 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 31^st of the year awarded.

Tips for Success:

• Follow all the instructions with care, pay attention to required information and supporting documentation needs for specific opportunities.
• 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 criterion, be sure to include that information in your summary.
  • Outline your short- and long-range career plans and include a brief personal outline of your background in the summary.
  • In addition, you should include recent honors or awards received (academic, professional, civic, et cetera) and involvement in community groups/organizations.
• 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.
• 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 the Foundation Services Manager at 319.366.2862 or email.