The 5 Ws of UMHEF Scholarships
Now that applications are open for scholarships from the United Methodist Higher Education Foundation, let’s review the 5 Ws of our awards. Becoming familiar with the Who, What, When, Where, and Why of UMHEF scholarships will ensure you’re ready to hit “submit” for your chance at affording higher education!
WHO
UMHEF scholarships are for students enrolled or planning to enroll in a United Methodist-related college, university, or seminary for the 2023-2024 academic year. You must be a full and active member of one of these churches: The United Methodist Church, African Methodist Episcopal Church, AME Zion Church, Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Learn more about eligibility.
WHAT
UMHEF awards more than $2 million in scholarships every year to nearly 1,000 students. Our scholarships include the UM Dollars for Scholars program (worth up to $4,000), General Named Endowed scholarships from 130+ endowed funds, awards for students attending UM-related HBCUs, and others.
WHEN
Eligible students may submit applications between January 1 and March 1. Exceptions include UM Dollars for Scholars applicants wishing to attend Andrew College or Louisburg College (deadline of June 1) and the Chaplain Samuel Grover Powell Scholarship (deadline of July 1). Applicants will be notified of award status by letter around the middle of May and, once final proof of enrollment is received in the fall, funds are sent directly to your school by the middle of November.
WHERE
Applications may be submitted online via Smarter Select, a secure platform UMHEF uses for scholarship management. A few specialty applications are housed on our site. Access each application below:
UM Dollars for Scholars Application (download paper copy here)
General Named Endowed Scholarships Application
International Students Application – for those attending a UM school outside the US
Chaplain Samuel Grover Powell Scholarship Application
WHY
The final W – why – answers the impact UMHEF scholarships can have on your future. With higher education prices rising every year, it is our grand vision to make it financially possible for Methodist students to be educated at United Methodist-related schools. At these colleges, universities, and seminaries, you’ll obtain quality education in a faith-based environment where you’ll learn skills to be leaders of our communities, churches, businesses, and world. To partner with our many donors to support you is a blessing – and a mission we don’t take lightly. That’s our WHY.