Carson Scholars Program
The Carson Scholars Fund empowers students through college scholarships, ongoing recognition, and reading initiatives that spark a lifelong love of learning.
Scholarship Program
The Carson Scholars Fund awards $1,000 college scholarships to students in grades 4–11 who excel academically and are dedicated to serving their communities. Scholars are recognized not only for their achievements inside the classroom, but also for their commitment to making a difference in the world around them.
Who We Support
- Students in grades 4–11 at accredited K–12 schools in the US.
- Nominees who maintain a minimum 3.75 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
- Young people who demonstrate strong humanitarian qualities through community service.
How It Works
- An educator nominates one student from their school.
- The student submits an application.
- Selected students are named Carson Scholars and receive a $1,000 scholarship.
- Upon high school graduation, scholars may request a payout of their scholarship funds directly to their chosen college/university.
What Scholars Receive
- A $1,000 college scholarship award invested on their behalf to earn interest until high school graduation.
- An Olympic-sized medal and certificate of achievement.
- A trophy/nameplate for their school.
- Invitation to a regional awards banquet.
- Access to a community of like-minded students.
Review the 2026-2027 Scholarship Season Flyer.
Recognition Program
Once a student becomes a Carson Scholar, the journey doesn’t end. The Recognition Program honors scholars who continue to uphold the high standards of academic excellence and community service year after year.
Who Can Be Recognized?
- Students in grades 5–12 who have already received a Carson Scholarship
- Scholars who maintain a minimum 3.75 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)
- Young people who demonstrate strong humanitarian qualities through a minimum of 3 hours of community service per calendar year.
How It Works
- Application emailed to eligible Carson Scholars each fall
- Students submit the application
- Selected students are named Recognized Carson Scholars
Recognition Benefits
- Continued access to a community of like-minded students
- Resume-booster
- Trophy/nameplate for their school
- Invitation to a regional awards banquet
– Elizabeth D.
5-time Carson Scholar
Important Deadlines to Know
Nominations Open
Educators from participating schools will receive emailed communications with the form to nominate.
Nomination Deadline
Schools must submit the nomination form to the Carson Scholars Fund by 11:59 PM EST.
Application Deadline
Complete and submit the full application, including essay, report card and letter(s) of recommendation, by 11:59 PM EST.
Recommendations Due
Teacher and counselor recommendation letters must be received.
Scholarship Notifications
All applicants and schools are notified via email and published on the website in the first week of March.
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