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Opening Doors to Opportunity
1. Complete Aid Applications
We encourage all students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and Washington Application for State Financial Aid. These programs provide considerable financial aid for students and help our committees determine financial needs.
2. Review Our Scholarships
We offer dozens of scholarships geared toward local students. Each has varying criteria. Take our eligibility quiz to see which fit your focus and background. Then, review each application and make a list of any required documents you'll need.
3. Prepare to Apply
Gather any required documents from your school administrators and personal references. Review our tips and resources for completing the application. Begin drafting your responses to the common application questions and save your work.
4. Apply for Scholarships
Sign in to your SmarterSelect account and fill in your application(s). Feel free to save your progress and return later to review or revise your responses. Once your application is complete, click submit and wait to hear from our scholarship team.
Who Our Scholarships Serve
➜ High School Seniors: Most of our scholarships are geared toward seniors graduating from high school who are attending college, trade or technical schools. Some are renewable.
➜ College Students: Some scholarships are dedicated to supporting postsecondary and graduate level students. Several support trades and vocational colleges. Many are renewable.
➜ Returning Students: Several scholarships are for adult learners or those returning to complete a degree or certificate after taking a break in their educational path.
Awarding Equitable Scholarships
2024 Scholar Snapshot
Students of Color
Our scholars reflect our region's diversity with more than half (52%) identifying as Asian, Black, Hispanic, Latinx, Native, Pacific Islander or multi-ethnic.
Pell Grant Eligible
Just over half (57%) of our scholars had enough financial need to qualify as low-income and for a Federal Pell Grant.
First-Generation
A high percentage (43%) of our scholars were the first in their families to pursue a post-secondary education.
Working Students
Many (85%) of our scholars indicated that they were working at least part-time while attending school.
Student Retention
20% of our scholars are in their second year or beyond, working toward a postsecondary degree or certificate.
Common Questions
Who can receive a scholarship through the Community Foundation?
Our scholarship funds support a diverse range of students, but the majority are designed for graduating high school students. A number also benefit students currently enrolled in colleges or universities, and a few benefit graduate students and those pursuing vocational or technical training.
How much funding do Community Foundation scholarships provide?
Individual scholarship awards range in size from $1,000 to $10,000, but the average gift is roughly $2,500.
How many years do the scholarships last?
Scholarships may be awarded for one year only, while others are awarded for the customary four years of post-secondary education or the time it takes to complete a degree.
Are your scholarships extremely competitive?
Not generally. Many of them are specialized for students graduating from certain high schools, residing in a specific geographical area or those pursuing a defined career path. Others benefit employees or children of employees of specific businesses, or others with an organization affiliation.
How do you select scholarship recipients?
Each scholarship fund has its own selection committee. The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington processes the application materials for these committees to review.
If I receive a scholarship, where should I send a thank you note?
Foundation staff and donors appreciate thank you notes. If you would like to show your gratitude, you can upload a note, picture or video in the online scholarship acceptance form. You can also send your personalized cards and letters to the "CFSWW Scholarship Manager" and mail it to our physical address: 610 Esther Street, Suite 201 Vancouver, WA 98660.
Does the amount I receive in scholarships affect my eligibility for financial aid?
Yes. The scholarship provider gives your award to the college you are attending as credit towards your tuition, fees, and required books and supplies. If this happens, the school adjusts your unmet financial need accordingly.
Let's Make Education Accessible!
