Founded by Salvadorean peace activists, the Salvadoran-American Leadership and Education Fund (SALEF) provides college scholarships to Latino students with a focus on those with roots in Central American countries. Students can apply for four types of scholarships from the organization, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. The Health Career Scholarship, funded by the California Wellness Foundation, is for students pursuing degrees in health. The "Two Nineteen Scholarship" is for community college students. The "Four-Year Scholarship" provides funding for four consecutive years. The "Father Rutilio Grande Scholarship" is for those studying religious or social justice topics. Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA, a history of community involvement, and demonstrate financial need. All students residing in the United States, regardless of immigration status, are eligible. Preference is given to students who live in Southern California.
Salvadoran American Leadership and Educational Fund
"Fulfilling Our Dreams" Scholarship Fund
Attn: Scholarship Fund Coordinator
1625 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 718
Los Angeles, CA 90015
213-480-1052
salef.org
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funds a comprehensive scholarship program for low-income minorities, including American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American, Hispanic and African American students. The awards are presented in partnership with organizations for ethnic minorities. Applicants must be United States citizens or have permanent resident status. Qualifications include a minimum 3.3 GPA, a high school diploma or GED, leadership skills, community service involvement and Federal Pell Grant eligibility. The renewable award funds the remainder of the costs of tuition and fees of students who receive college financial aid.
Gates Millennium Scholars
P.O. Box 10500
Fairfax, VA 22031-8044
877-690-4677
gmsp.org
USPAACC awards approximately 20 scholarships to Asian-American students each year, ranging from $4,000 to $5,500. The awards are underwritten by corporate sponsors such as PepsiCo and Macy's as well as individuals and private foundations. The highly competitive scholarship program receives over 2,000 applications annually. Students must submit transcripts, two recommendations, an essay, a biography, and a copy of their household tax return. The award is paid directly to the student's college and is only for tuition. Winners are announced at USPAACC's annual conference.
US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce
1329 18th Street NW
Washington, DC 20036
202-296-5221
uspaacc.com