Current college students who can prove they have one-quarter northern Native American blood can apply for scholarships through American Indian Services. The program allows part-time and full-time students with at least a 2.25 GPA to apply for scholarships. A photograph, preferably one with family members of Native American descent, is required as part of the application process. Students also must provide proof of American Indian blood, through a heritage certificate or tribal enrollment. An essay is also required that must specify the student's career goals and familial tribal affiliation. American Indian Services also requires first-time scholarship applicants to provide an official college transcript as well as evidence of unmet college financial need such as a tuition bill. The organization offers four deadlines each year, and awarded students may re-apply through a simplified process. The award amounts vary depending on available funds and level of student achievement as well as financial need.
Asian and Pacific Islander students who qualify for federal financial aid can also apply for educational awards from the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF). However, these scholarships are limited to first-time, full-time college attendees. Applicants must be residents, citizens or nationals of the United States or a citizen of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau. However, the winners must attend an accredited college in the United States. A minimum 2.7 high school GPA or evidence of a GED award is required as well as a letter of recommendation. APIASF awards 200 scholarships annually, with grants ranging from $2,000 to $5,000.
The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) offers numerous awards for African-American high school and college students. However, most scholarships are usable only at historically black educational institutions. One award that does not require a specific college is the Black History Month essay contest, which offers high school seniors in most states a chance to win $5,000 scholarships. Some UNCF programs offer internships at companies such as Google, HSBC and Hershey in addition to college grant funds.
High school and college students of Hispanic or Latino heritage can pursue awards through the Hispanic Scholarship Fund. Most awards require full-time college enrollment for the upcoming academic year. However, current community college students planning to transfer to a four-year university may apply even if they are attending school part-time. But they must plan to attend their new colleges full-time. Most awards require specific and often science-oriented majors and some also include prestigious internship placements.