Japanese American Service Committee Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by Japanese American Service Committee

Introduction

JASC awards scholarships that reflect our commitment to community-focused care, service, and the preservation of Japanese American history and heritage. We value many forms of community engagement—whether through exploring culture, caregiving, advocacy, creative pursuits, volunteering, or learning—and seek applicants who demonstrate meaningful involvement in their communities.

This application is intended to allow applicants to honestly reflect on their experiences, values, and plans for the future rather than conforming to a narrow definition of “involvement.” Applicants are not required to be of Japanese descent and do not need prior affiliation with JASC to apply.

We are grateful to the families and individuals whose generosity funds these scholarships and honor the people for whom our awards are named: Sam Fukaye Scholarship; Fred Toguri Scholarship; William T. Yamamoto Scholarship; Frank T. Kambara Scholarship; Jean E. Taketoshi Scholarship; John (Jun) Iwaoka Scholarship; Dr. Newton K. Wesley Scholarship; Taketo (Tak) Tomiyama Scholarship.

Eligibility

To be considered for a JASC scholarship, applicants must satisfy all of the following conditions:

1. Be enrolled, either full-time or part-time, in an accredited institution of higher learning during the 2026–27 academic year.
2. Not be required to have Japanese ancestry or U.S. citizenship.
3. Submit every document requested on the application form; incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
4. Understand that scholarship funds will be issued to the student after JASC receives proof of enrollment at an accredited institution.
5. Have a current JASC membership held by the applicant or a family member. Student memberships are $45 — more information and sign-up at https://www.jasc-chicago.org/become-a-member/
6. Note that an individual may receive up to two (2) JASC scholarships in their lifetime: one during undergraduate study and one during graduate study. Applicants who previously received a JASC scholarship and are seeking a second award must demonstrate ongoing commitment to serving others and notable community service.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be assessed using the following factors:

1. Community involvement and service to others — what concrete impact the applicant has made and how these activities have influenced the applicant.
2. Academic commitment and achievement — academic record will be reviewed as an indicator of dedication to continued learning; coursework and course level will also be considered to assess motivation and interests.
3. Embodiment of Japanese American values — efforts to build community, confront injustices, and share cultural and historical lessons in ways that contribute to societal improvement.