The Elks National Foundation Scholarships are exceptional awards for high school seniors in the USA, offering financial assistance of up to $12,500 per year for a four-year undergraduate program. Since its establishment in 1931, the foundation has provided scholarships to over 800 outstanding and service-minded students annually, enabling them to achieve their academic and career aspirations.
Scholarship Overview
The Elks National Foundation Scholarships, these scholarships competitively to 500 top applicants each year. Students are judged based on their academic achievements and leadership abilities, progressing through local, district, and state levels before reaching the national competition. Selected finalists participate in a Leadership Weekend in Chicago, where winners are announced.
The Elks National Foundation Scholarships aim to cover a significant portion of educational expenses, including tuition, living costs, books, and other fees, ensuring students can focus on their studies without financial barriers.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Elks National Foundation Scholarships, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Language Proficiency: Fluent in English, Applicants must communicate well in English.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be a U.S. citizen at the time of application submission (permanent legal residents are not eligible).
- Education: Open to high school seniors or the equivalent.
- Applicants must not be high school graduates at the time of application.
- Family Status: Applicants do not need to be related to Elks members.
Application Procedures
Follow these steps to apply for the scholarship:
- Prepare Documents: Ensure all materials required for submission are complete and ready.
- Find Your Local Elk Lodge: Submit your application to the lodge closest to your home address.
- Apply Online: Complete the application on the official Elks National Foundation website, adhering to all guidelines.
- Progress Through Levels: Applications will undergo review at local, district, and state levels, with top candidates moving forward to the national competition.
- Successful applicants advancing to the final round will participate in the Leadership Weekend held in April 2025.
Benefits of the Elks National Foundation Scholarships
The Elks National Foundation Scholarship provides: .
- Awards ranging from $1,000 to $12,500 per year, covering tuition, fees, books, and living expenses for four years.
- Access to a network of scholarship recipients and leadership development opportunities.
- Conditional certificates of award upon full-time enrollment at an accredited U.S. college or university.
- This program ensures significant financial support tailored to individual needs, reducing dependence on other financial aid.
Why Choose Elks National Foundation Scholarships?
The Elks National Foundation Scholarships are not only a financial lifeline but also a recognition of service-minded leadership and academic excellence.
With opportunities to connect with a wide network of scholars and participate in leadership activities, these scholarships empower recipients to grow both personally and professionally.
By selecting applicants who excel in academics and contribute positively to their communities, the foundation continues its legacy of fostering future leaders.
Application and Deadline
Candidates are advised to start early to ensure a thorough and competitive application. The Chicago office of the Elks National Foundation will announce the 500 national winners in April 2025.
Deadline: Applications must be submitted by November each year.
Official Scholarship Website: https://newalbanyelks.org/scholarships/