Application Instructions

All of the items below must be included in your packet in order for this application to be considered. Missing any of the items will result in an incomplete application packet.

• Completed application (signed by applicant and parent/guardian)
• Official transcript including current grade point average possessing of a 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0) scale or a 4.0 or higher (on a 5.0 scale) or its equivalent.
• Two (2) typed letters of recommendation from non-family members. One letter is required to be from a high school counselor and should provide clarification regarding the district’s GPA scale. If not included the application will be VOID. Both letters should include the following:
  • The recommender’s name, email address, and phone number for the reference
  • The relationship to the applicant and length of time the reference has known the applicant
  • A description of the applicant’s attributes and characteristics
  • An explanation of how the applicant has the perseverance to succeed at the college/university level
• A head shot photo (no larger than 3MB)
• A 250–300-word essay on one of the topics provided Note: All essays will be checked for authenticity.  If an essay is found to be plagiarized, the applicant will be automatically disqualified.    
• Signed Permission and Release Form for Media and Related Publicity
• Signed Scholarship Application Disclaimer
• Signed Applicant Certification

** Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CST, April 4, 2025 **

Scholarship Recipients will be invited to the NDSA May Week Tea on Sunday, May 4th.