To qualify for a Bernie Scholarship, applicants MUST: live in subsidized housing in Montgomery County, Maryland; have a family income that does not exceed HUD income limits; have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0; be a graduating high school senior or an adult with a high school diploma or GED; and be planning to attend college or pursue workforce development training. Undocumented students who qualify as Dreamers are also eligible to apply, as well as those who already have some workforce development training or earned some college credit.

Complete and submit the Scholarship Application Form. Only online submissions will be accepted. Check our Application page for application deadlines and submission materials. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

We award scholarships of up to $3,000. The Bernie Scholarship can be used to help pay for tuition and fees, books, and other education-related expenses — such as transportation, technology, or childcare.

The BSAP Board will review your application. 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 will be conducted June 7, 2025 between 9 a.m. and noon.

You will be notified via email. Before you can receive your scholarship funds, you will need to complete some paperwork from the Greater Washington Community Foundation. We will do our best to ensure the process is completed in a timely manner so that you can get the funds you need as soon as possible.

The number of Bernie Scholars each year can vary. There have been over 800 Bernie Scholars since 1995, when the program was founded.

Yes! If you are a prior scholarship recipient who needs additional funding to continue your degree or certification program, please reapply.

Your case manager or counselor at your housing agency will be glad to help you. You can also contact Montgomery College’s Educational Opportunity Center at (240) 567-5644 (regardless of whether you are a Montgomery College student) or The Bernie Scholarship Awards Program directly at berniescholarships@gmail.com.

The Bernie Scholarship Awards Program (BSAP) 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 Scholars receive financial assistance to help pay for college or vocational school. We also offer them a mentor, whose advice and encouragement can play a key role in a Bernie Scholar’s success.

The BSAP has a Board of Directors and an Advisory Board that work to ensure that we are a sustainable, effective program. The Directors and Advisors, all volunteers, are accomplished professionals and community leaders who serve as role models for our Bernie Scholars. If you would like to join our Board or assist us in an advisory capacity, please contact us at berniescholarships@gmail.com.

Our generous donors! You can join them in supporting future Bernie Scholars as they pursue their educational and career goals. Donate today!