Community Foundation of Sarasota County Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by Community Foundation of Sarasota County

Throughout the year, scholarships are open to students who are under 24 years old, although the deadlines for application can vary. Eligibility criteria include:

Currently living in Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, or Charlotte counties, or being a soon-to-be high school graduate or a high school graduate from any of these four counties.

Being younger than 24 years old as of December 31st of the application year (for those turning 24 as of this date, please refer to our page for Students 24 Years of Age or Older).

Qualification

Who qualifies for these scholarships?

The scholarships aren't limited to four-year universities. We recognize that higher education includes college, vocational or technical school, and accredited programs for select professions. You qualify for these scholarships if you are:

• Currently a student or intending to enroll in an approved college or vocational school
• A resident of Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, or DeSoto County or a high school graduate from any of these four counties
• Under 24 years old as of December 31st of the application year

Am I still eligible for a Community Foundation of Sarasota County scholarship if I am already in school?

Yes, provided you live in Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, or Charlotte County, or you graduated from a high school in one of these counties.

Can I apply for a scholarship even if I am unsure about the school I will attend?

Yes, but it's beneficial to have a clear idea of your desired school and career path.

Do I need to plan to attend a Florida state college or university?

No. Scholarship awardees can attend any accredited college, university, technical school, or vocational school, including but not limited to fields like cosmetology, vehicle or equipment repair, and all health care and safety professions.

Do I need to enroll in a four-year college or university to be eligible for a scholarship?

No. You can also use the scholarship funds at vocational or technical schools and community colleges.

Application Procedure

Is an interview necessary?

While scholarship applicants may be asked to attend an interview, it's not a common requirement. However, students may be invited to meet their donor at a lunch or reception, which they should attend if invited.

Do I need to write an essay?

Yes. All applicants must write a general essay outlining their academic objectives.

For the general essay, you can also use your common essay. It is recommended to write unique essays for certain scholarships that require specific essays.

What if I can't submit my required documents before the deadline?

All necessary documents must be submitted in full by the deadline. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Refer to Scholarships For Students Under 24 Years of Age for specific scholarship deadlines.

Are my responses and financial details kept confidential?

All details are kept confidential by our scholarship committee members. We do not share personal information with the public.

When will I know if I received a scholarship?

All applicants will be informed about their scholarship status in May.