What are local scholarships?

Local scholarships are financial awards offered to students within a specific geographic area, such as New York's Capital Region. These scholarships are often funded by community foundations, businesses, nonprofits, and individual donors to help students pursue higher education, trade schools, certificate programs, and other educational opportunities.

Who is eligible for local scholarships in the Capital Region?

Eligibility for local scholarships in the Capital Region varies by scholarship. Requirements may include residency, school attendance, academic achievement, financial need, community involvement, field of study, or other criteria established by the scholarship fund. Students should review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship opportunity.

Can I apply for more than one scholarship?

Yes. The Community Foundation's Universal Application is designed to match eligible students with multiple scholarship opportunities. Depending on your qualifications and the requirements of individual funds, you may be considered for more than one scholarship through a single application.

Do I need to complete a separate application for each scholarship?

In most cases, no. The Community Foundation uses a Universal Application that allows students to submit one application and be considered for multiple scholarship opportunities. Some scholarships may have separate application requirements, which will be noted in the scholarship listing.

When are local scholarship awards announced?

Scholarship recipients are typically notified through their high school awards ceremony or by email. According to the Community Foundation's current scholarship process, award notifications are generally provided on or before June 30 following the application cycle.

How competitive are local scholarships in the Capital Region?

Local scholarship competitiveness varies depending on the scholarship's eligibility requirements, award amount, and number of applicants. Students can improve their chances by submitting a complete application, meeting all eligibility criteria, and providing strong supporting materials such as transcripts, recommendations, and personal statements when required.

Scholarships - The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region

Scholarships for High School and College Students

2027 scholarship applications will be open from January 1 - March 15, 2027.

The Community Foundation utilizes a "universal application," allowing students to complete one application to qualify for more than 30 scholarships.

Scholarship winners will be notified at their high school awards ceremony OR notified by email on or before June 30.

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Apply now - non-traditional scholarship applications

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Scholarships for Non-Traditional Age Students

Apply now - non-traditional scholarship applications

The following scholarships are not available on the Universal Application. When the application period opens, the link will be available. If prompted, you may need an access code to continue your application. Access codes are listed next to the link. When you click the link you will see the spot to enter the access code at the top of the page.

C. Michael Darcy Scholarship

Capital Region Chamber Continuing Education Scholarship

Edna A. Lauterbach Scholarship

Established in memory of Edna A. Lauterbach, RN, former president of Competent Care, Inc. and American Care, Inc., this scholarship is open to nurses in New York State who are seeking to enhance their skills through business-related education. Scholarships are awarded to registered nurses and licensed practical nurses residing in New York State. If prompted, use the access code: edna.

Scholarships

Scholarships for High School and College Students

2027 scholarship applications will be open from January 1 - March 15, 2027.

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Universal Scholarship Application List

CFGCR Scholarships Application Tips

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Age Students

C. Michael Darcy Scholarship

Capital Region Chamber Continuing Education Scholarship

Edna A. Lauterbach Scholarship

Phyllis E. Dake “Make Your Own” Scholarship

William Randolph Hearst Scholarship

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