Scholarship Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply?
Each scholarship fund has specific eligibility criteria that have been defined by the donor. Please read through the specific criteria per scholarship to see if you are eligible for any of the funds.
Can I submit more than one application?
SUBMIT ONLY ONE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION. The Community Foundation staff will determine if you are eligible for other scholarships based on the information in your application.
Are all scholarships for Tennessee residents?
The majority of our scholarships require you to be a Tennessee resident. There are a few that do not, so please read the eligibility criteria carefully before applying.
Where can I go to school with these scholarships?
Unless noted differently in the scholarship description and eligibility statement, the scholarships are for accredited schools anywhere in the United States.
When should I apply?
Your application, recommendations, transcripts and other supporting documents must be submitted electronically through the online scholarship system on or before March 15 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time.
How much does it cost to apply for a scholarship?
There is no charge to apply.
Are the scholarships awarded enough to pay for all of my college education?
No. These scholarships are intended to provide only partial support. In addition to applying for scholarships through The Community Foundation, you should look into other financial aid resources such as federal grants, loans and work-study awards. A complete financial package can be put together by your high school counselor or your college financial aid office and may include a portion of each of these types of financial aid.
If I am awarded a scholarship, how much will I get?
Community Foundation scholarships offer varying award amounts. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500 but could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds.
Can I receive more than one scholarship?
Yes. You may be eligible and selected as a recipient for more than one scholarship. The Community Foundation staff will then determine if you are eligible for other scholarships based on the information in your application.
Do I need to pay scholarship money back?
No. However, the Student Education Loan Fund (SELF) is a loan program and must be repaid.
If I am awarded a scholarship, do I get the check?
No. Scholarship award checks will be made payable to the institution and mailed just prior to the beginning of fall semester.
What can my scholarship be used for?
The scholarship can be used toward any item within your school’s Financial Aid Office’s determined cost of attendance, which includes tuition, fees, room, board, books, personal/living expenses and transportation. The purpose of the scholarship is to supplement, not supplant, any federal, state or institutional grant or scholarship for which the student is eligible.
How are the scholarship decisions made?
A volunteer selection committee appointed by the Board of The Community Foundation and comprised of impartial Middle Tennesseans will review each application and select the recipients
based on the criteria established by donors.
How will my application be evaluated?
In evaluating the applicants, the committee will consider the applicants’ academic records, test scores, extracurricular activities, work experience, community involvement, and recommendations about leadership and character. The selection process shall balance merit and financial need and depending on the scholarship, there may be an emphasis on financial need.
If I am awarded a scholarship, what are my responsibilities?
Scholarship recipients must attend college on a full-time basis in the fall of the year in which the scholarships are awarded and continue in college that entire academic year, barring illness or emergency. Recipients are responsible for having The Community Foundation notified of their enrollment each quarter or semester by the school.
If I receive a scholarship one year, will I automatically receive an award for the following year?
No. In almost all cases, students must complete the application process again in order to be considered for a renewal scholarship award.
When would I be notified if I received a scholarship?
Recipients will be notified by mid-May.