Scholarship Application
The Bernie Scholarship Awards Program was established in 1995 to help graduating high school seniors and other adults who live in subsidized housing in Montgomery County, Maryland achieve their dreams. Bernie Scholarship recipients receive financial assistance to attend college or a vocational program. We also offer them a mentor, whose advice and encouragement can play a key role in a Bernie Scholarship recipient’s success.
Thank you for your interest! Applications for the 2024 scholarships closed on April 1. Next year's applications will open by February 1, 2025.
Eligibility
Bernie Scholarship applicants MUST:
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Live in subsidized housing in Montgomery County, Maryland
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Have a family income that does not exceed HUD household income limits
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Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
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Be a graduating high school senior or an adult with a high school diploma or GED
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Be planning to attend college or pursue workforce development training
Bernie Scholarship applicants can:
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Be undocumented students who qualify as Dreamers
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Already have some workforce development training or earned some college credit
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Be prior scholarship recipients who need additional funding to complete their college degree or workforce development training
How To Apply
Complete and submit the 2024 Scholarship Application Form. Only online submissions will be accepted. The deadline to submit your application and all required documents is 11:59 p.m. on April 1, 2024. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
To complete the application you will need: an unofficial high school or college transcript or satisfactory progress if enrolled; a completed recommendation form from someone who knows you academically or professionally; contact information for your rental subsidy provider agency; and a release of information form (for HOC tenants only).
If you need assistance completing the application form, contact a case manager or counselor at your housing agency or call the Montgomery College’s Educational Opportunity Center at (204) 567-5644. You can also contact The Bernie Scholarship Awards Program at berniescholarships@gmail.com.
After You Apply
Your application will be reviewed by members of the Bernie Scholarship Awards Program Board. Preference is given to individuals who have performed community service and/or plan to pursue a career in public service. Applicants will be considered based on financial need.
If you are selected as a finalist, you will be required to participate in a virtual interview with members of the Board. Interviews are typically conducted the first Saturday in June between 9 a.m. and noon.
Student Resources
Looking for scholarship information and other services that pave the way for student success can be an intimidating experience. The Bernie Scholarship Awards Program has compiled a list of websites to make it easier for you.
The Bernie Scholarship Awards Program makes no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of these listed resources. They are meant to provide a starting point for those seeking scholarships and services and they are not endorsed, recommended, or favored by The Bernie.