Mississippi

Mississippi Scholarships and Grants

Are you having a wonderful senior year? It is an exciting time full of friends, and activities, and college applications. It seems like you don’t have a moment to stand still, but that’s what you need to do is take a minute and consider applying for a scholarship, grant or loan to help out financially with your college expenses. For many, receiving one of these will be the only way they can afford college, yet, there are so many resources out there that go unclaimed every year because nobody applied for them. Don’t get left empty handed. Take a look at some of the opportunities listed below, but keep in mind – this is only the tip of the iceberg! To find out more about scholarship opportunities, visit your high school guidance counselor. Have a wonderful year!

American Legion Mississippi Auxiliary

Are you the descendant or dependent of a U.S. military veteran? If so, and if you meet other qualifications, you might just receive this scholarship. Other eligibility requirements include living in Mississippi, demonstrating the need for financial assistance, and having good grades. The award is for $500 and can be used in designated Mississippi schools. For details, contact www.missala.com.

Horatio Alger Mississippi Scholarship Program

If you are a high school senior who has already faced and overcome great obstacles in your life, you need to take a closer look at this program.

Other requirements include ability to demonstrate financial need; that you have a minimum GPA of 2.0, and have a record of good academic achievement; that you are serious-minded in your approach to your future; and, that you are service oriented. Along with your completed application you will need to submit an essay, copy of your transcript, a letter of support, and an income statement. The scholarship may be used for full-time undergrad study at 2 or 4-year institutions in the United States. There is no specified field of study for this award, but you must be in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. For more details please check out this website: www.horatioalger.org/scholarships. Awards are for $5,000 each.

Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership Program (LEAP)

This is a renewable scholarship designated for use in an accredited 2 or 4-year college or university. To be eligible you must be a high school senior and reside in the state of Mississippi. You must be able to demonstrate your need for financial assistance by completing the free FAFSA application (see note above). You must also have a record of high scholastic achievement. Letters of recommendation will need to be submitted along with your scholarship application. To see if you meet the general requirements for a government student aid program, contact the financial aid office at your chosen college or university. You can also find more details at www.mississippi.edu/riseupms/financialaid-state.php. The amount of this award varies from year to year.

Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant

This is a grant and that is a really good thing! Unlike loans, they never have be paid back. If your grades and your scholastic record is excellent – GPA of 3.5, at least a 29 on the ACT or 1280 on the SAT, or, if you have been recognized as one of the finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Program or the National Achievement Scholarship Program, this may be the one for you! You must also be a high school senior and live in the state of Mississippi. The award is for $2,500 and is intended for use at designated Mississippi colleges and universities. Along with your application you will need to provide a transcript and a copy of Mississippi tax return. To find more details, go to www.mississippi.edu/riseupms.

Nissan Scholarship

If you qualify for this award, it will pay your full tuition to attend a Mississippi public college or university. You are required to be a high school senior, living in-state, who can demonstrate your need for financial assistance. You must have a record of high academic achievement — GPA of at least 2.5, 20 ACT or 940 SAT — and have demonstrated strong leadership abilities in the past. You must also be serious-minded about your future, and have an interest in community service. First, you will need to complete the free FSFSA application on line as outlined in the ‘note’ at the beginning of this handout. Visit the website for more information and an application at www.mississippi.edu/riseupms.