Affordability

Preparing for the New My Scholarship Central Experience 

As scholarship season begins winding down, we want to share several important updates with students, families, and partners as we prepare for an exciting transition this summer. 

My Scholarship Central Is Moving to a New Platform 

We are hopeful this new platform will create a smoother and more user-friendly experience for both students and scholarship providers. Our goal is to alleviate many of the technical issues and frustrations users have experienced on the current site while improving accessibility, communication, and overall functionality. 

As we prepare for this transition, it is very important that rising seniors and other students do not create a new account on the current platform over the summer. Any new accounts created on the current site will not transfer to the new system, meaning students would need to create another account again once the new site launches in September. 

Additional information about the transition, including FAQs, tutorials, training opportunities, and support resources, will be shared throughout the summer and fall. We encourage students, counselors, and scholarship providers to watch for updates and training announcements in the coming months. 

Questions about the transition can be directed to:  [email protected] 

Reminder About High School Email Addresses 

Students currently using a high school email address for their My Scholarship Central account should have recently received an email from [email protected] encouraging them to review their account information. 

Many students lose access to their high school email accounts shortly after graduation. Because of the upcoming transition to the new platform, it is especially important that students update their accounts to an email address they will continue to access long-term. 

This is particularly important for students who have received renewable scholarships, as future communication regarding scholarship renewals, requirements, and updates may be sent through the email address connected to their account. 

Students should take time now to ensure they have an accessible personal email address connected to their scholarship account. 

There Is Still Time to Apply 

Although many scholarship deadlines have passed, there are still opportunities available with deadlines extending through the end of May and into June. 

We encourage students to continue checking My Scholarship Central regularly to review available opportunities and submit applications before deadlines close. 

Students can explore current opportunities here:  https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/ 

Scholarship Timeline for High School Seniors 

Preparing for scholarships is a year-round process. Below is a general timeline students can follow throughout their senior year to stay on track. 

Summer Before Senior Year 

• Build a list of extracurricular activities, honors, leadership roles, volunteer experience, and work experience  

• Begin drafting and revising scholarship essays  

• Research scholarships and organize deadlines  

• Identify potential letter writers, such as teachers, counselors, employers, coaches, or mentors  

• Reach out to recommenders early to ask if they would be willing to provide letters of recommendation during senior year  

• Create a professional personal email address students will continue using after graduation 

September 

• Create a new account on the revamped My Scholarship Central platform through SurveyMonkey Apply once the new site launches 

• Begin researching scholarships and organizing application materials 

• Start requesting transcripts and preparing a resume or activities list 

Site URL and additional instructions will be shared closer to launch. 

October 

• Complete and submit the FAFSA as soon as it opens 

• Begin applying for scholarships with early deadlines 

• Continue building and refining scholarship essays 

November – December 

• Continue applying for scholarships 

• Request letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, employers, or mentors 

• Keep track of deadlines and required materials 

January – April 

• Most scholarship opportunities open during this timeframe 

• Many scholarships are due by the end of April 

• Students should consistently apply for scholarships throughout the winter and spring months 

• Continue monitoring email and scholarship portals for updates or additional requirements 

April – May 

• Review financial aid and scholarship award letters from colleges 

• Compare financial aid packages and scholarship offers 

• Continue applying for any late-season scholarship opportunities 

Summer Before College 

• Complete scholarship renewal requirements if applicable 

• Monitor email accounts regularly for scholarship communication 

• Prepare for transition to college and maintain access to scholarship accounts and documentation 

As we prepare for an exciting new chapter for My Scholarship Central, we appreciate the continued support of students, families, schools, and scholarship providers throughout this transition process. 

As we move into May, we have an exciting update to share — along with important reminders for students still seeking scholarship opportunities. 

A New My Scholarship Central Platform Is Coming 

We’re excited to announce that My Scholarship Central will be transitioning to a new platform in August–September of this year. 

This transition is designed to improve the overall experience for students, families, and partners. We know our current system has presented challenges, and we are confident this new platform will help resolve many of those issues while making the application process more efficient and user-friendly. 

More details will be shared in the coming months. In the meantime: 

• Be on the lookout for summer and fall training opportunities
• Members of the class of 2027 should wait to create a My Scholarship Central account until the launch of the new site.  

• Questions about the transition? Contact us at [email protected]  

We’re excited about this change and are here to support you every step of the way. 

Scholarship Season Is Wrapping Up — But It’s Not Too Late 

While many scholarship deadlines have passed, there are still opportunities available — including several with May 31 deadlines. 

Students should continue checking My Scholarship Central and submitting applications for any scholarships they qualify for. Below are several opportunities currently open: 

Scholarships with Upcoming Summer Deadlines 

Norwood Hills Scholarship 

Deadline: May 31 

Award: Up to $10,000, renewable 

The Norwood Hills Scholarship supports employees of Norwood Hills Country Club, as well as their children and grandchildren, who are pursuing postsecondary education. 

Eligible applicants may enroll part-time or full-time in a certificate or undergraduate program at an accredited nonprofit institution. Students must demonstrate academic potential, and preference is given to those with financial need. 

Recipients may reapply for up to four years of undergraduate funding, provided they continue to meet eligibility requirements. 

Apply here: 
https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10142 

Rides N’ School Supplies Scholarship 

Deadline: May 31 

Award: Varies 

The Rides N’ School Supplies (RNSS) Scholarship supports high school seniors and current college students in the St. Louis metropolitan area who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, and leadership. 

Applicants must have at least a 2.75 GPA, complete a minimum of 10 hours of community service, and submit a video and written essay. Recipients are expected to give back by volunteering 15–20 hours annually with RNSS or its partners. 

Awards will be presented at the RNSS Charity Car & Bike Show on August 1, 2026. 

Apply here: 
https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10559 

Vitendo4Africa Scholarship 

Deadline: May 31 

Award: $500-$1,000  

The Vitendo4Africa Scholarship provides financial support to African immigrant students in the St. Louis region pursuing postsecondary education, including college, university, or trade programs. 

Applicants must be graduating high school seniors or current college students with a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate an African immigrant background. This scholarship aims to expand access to education and support students on their academic journey. 

Apply here: 
https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/9969 

William D. Stiehl Scholarship 

Deadline: May 31 

Award: Up to $5,000 

The William D. Stiehl Scholarship supports students from East St. Louis or Brooklyn, Illinois, who are pursuing graduate-level education in law, education, city planning, or community development. 

Recipients may receive up to $5,000 per year, with the opportunity for renewal. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and commit to working in economically challenged communities after graduation. 

Apply here: 
https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10515 

Keep Applying — It Matters 

Even as the scholarship season winds down, students are encouraged to continue applying. 

Many scholarships consider more than just GPA, including: 

• Leadership and community involvement  

• Financial need  

• Career goals  

• Personal experiences and perseverance  

Every year, scholarship dollars go unclaimed because students assume they won’t qualify. 

Final Reminder 

As we close out this scholarship cycle and prepare for an exciting system transition: 

Keep applying. Stay informed. Get ready for what’s next. 

Students and families can explore all open opportunities and begin applying here: 
https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/ 

Many scholarship deadlines are approaching at the end of March, and students should begin submitting applications now. In fact, 18 scholarships available through My Scholarship Central close on March 31, making this an important time to log in, review opportunities, and complete applications. 

Scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of college by helping cover tuition, books, and other education-related expenses. Whether you are a graduating high school senior or a current college student, there may be opportunities that align with your academic goals and background. 

Below are several scholarships currently open that students should review right away. 

Scholarships Closing March 31 

Several scholarships available through My Scholarship Central are closing at the end of the month. Students should carefully review eligibility requirements and begin applications as soon as possible. 

Roger L. Nienkamp St. Louis School-Business Partnership Scholarship 

The Roger L. Nienkamp Scholarship recognizes students graduating from school districts participating in the St. Louis School-Business Partnership program. This scholarship honors students who demonstrate strong academic performance and involvement in extracurricular activities. 

Eligibility requirements include: 

• Must be a graduating high school senior 

• Must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 

• Must graduate from a St. Louis School-Business Partnership member district 

• Must plan to enroll in a college, university, two-year college, business school, or technical program 

Participating districts include Affton, Fox, Hancock, Hazelwood, Lindbergh, Northwest R-1, Pattonville, Ritenour, Rockwood, Saint Louis Public Schools, and other partner districts. 

Each year, three students are selected who demonstrate academic achievement, school involvement, and dedication to continuing their education. 

Apply here: https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10023 

Zonta Club of St. Louis Women’s Another Chance Scholarship 

The Women’s Another Chance Scholarship (WAC) supports single mothers over the age of 24 who are pursuing postsecondary education or career training. The scholarship provides financial assistance for tuition, books, lab fees, and classroom supplies. 

In addition to financial assistance, recipients are paired with a volunteer mentor from the Zonta Club of St. Louis. Mentors provide encouragement, guidance, and support while helping students access resources from the Zonta Club and the broader community. 

Eligibility requirements include: 

• Must be 24 years of age or older 

• Must be a female single parent and head of household 

• Must live in Franklin, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. Louis County, St. Louis City, Madison County, Monroe County, or St. Clair County 

• Must attend a school within 50 miles of St. Louis city limits 

• Must demonstrate financial need 

• Must have a high school diploma or GED 

• Must already be enrolled in an accredited nonprofit postsecondary program 

• Must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 

Applicants must also have sole responsibility for raising at least one child. Graduate students are not eligible. Finalists will participate in an interview as part of the selection process. 

Apply here: https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10345 

Multi-Opportunity Scholarship Applications 

Some scholarship applications allow students to be considered for multiple scholarship funds through a single application, making them especially important to complete. 

St. Louis Community Foundation Multi-Opportunity Application 

Deadline: April 15 

This application provides access to a wide range of scholarships administered by the St. Louis Community Foundation. These scholarships support students from the St. Louis region pursuing two-year, four-year, or technical education programs. 

Students should complete the application and then review individual scholarship opportunities within the system to determine whether additional materials are required. 

Questions about these scholarships can be directed to: 
[email protected] 

Learn more & Apply: https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10229 

Jewish Federation of St. Louis Scholarships & Interest-Free Loan Program 

Deadline: March 31 

The Jewish Federation of St. Louis Scholarships and Interest-Free Loan Program provides access to several scholarship funds and financial assistance opportunities for students in the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. 

Through one application, students may be considered for seven named scholarship and loan funds, supporting a range of educational goals and fields of study. Preference is given to applicants that are Jewish or have connections to the Jewish community. 

Questions can be directed to the Jewish Federation of St. Louis at (314) 442-3824. 

Learn more & Apply: https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10201 

Specialty Scholarships 

Some scholarships are designed for students with specific affiliations, life experiences, or educational goals. If you meet the criteria for these opportunities, they can provide meaningful financial support for your education. 

SumnerOne Scholarship 

Deadline: April 15, 2026 

The SumnerOne Scholarship supports SumnerOne employees and the children of SumnerOne employees who are pursuing postsecondary education. To qualify, the employee must have worked at SumnerOne for at least one year by the application deadline. 

Employee applicants may enroll part-time or full-time, while children of employees must enroll full-time as undergraduate students. 

Applicants must attend an accredited nonprofit technical or trade school, two-year college, or four-year college or university in the United States and demonstrate unmet financial need. 

The scholarship provides $5,000 in funding and is renewable, with the possibility of renewal for up to three additional undergraduate years as long as recipients continue to meet academic and financial eligibility requirements. 

Learn more & Apply: https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10162 

USS ST. LOUIS (LCS 19) Scholarship 

Deadline: April 15, 2026 

This scholarship supports current or former USS ST. LOUIS (LCS 19) crew members and their dependents who are pursuing postsecondary education. 

Plankowners and their dependents remain eligible as long as the scholarship fund exists. Crew members who joined the ship later and their dependents may apply for up to five years after their service on the ship ends. 

Applicants must: 

• Be a current or former USS ST. LOUIS (LCS 19) crew member or dependent 

• Plan to enroll in an accredited nonprofit postsecondary program 

• Be pursuing a first technical certificate, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree 

• Demonstrate significant financial need 

• Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 

The scholarship may award up to $12,000 and is renewable for up to ten semesters. 

Learn more & Apply: 
https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10213 

Ryan Hawn Memorial Scholarship 

Deadline: April 30, 2026 

The Ryan Hawn Memorial Scholarship supports Missouri high school seniors living with a diagnosed muscle disease who plan to continue their education after graduation. 

Applicants must: 

• Be a current Missouri resident 

• Have a diagnosis recognized on the Muscular Dystrophy Association disease list 

• Plan to enroll in an undergraduate program at a two-year college, four-year university, or technical college 

The scholarship provides a $1,000 award. 

Applicants must also submit an essay describing how their diagnosis has impacted their life, their educational goals, and how the scholarship would support their future plans. 

Learn more: 
https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/opportunities/10374 

With several deadlines approaching quickly, now is the time for students to take action. Logging in to My Scholarship Central, reviewing eligibility requirements, and submitting applications early can make a meaningful difference in securing financial support for college or career training. Even if you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s worth applying. Many scholarships consider more than just GPA, including leadership, perseverance, and community involvement. Explore the available opportunities and start your applications today. 

It’s scholarship season! My Scholarship Central currently has over $100,000 in available scholarship funding available for students. If you are navigating a major life circumstance, pursuing a skilled trade or technical program, or you are a Missouri senior planning for college, there are opportunities open right now that may fit your situation. 

Below are scholarships currently open in three categories. 

Special Circumstances Scholarships 

Ava’s Grace Scholarship 
Deadline: April 15, 2026 
Award: $5,000, renewable (up to 10 semesters) 

This scholarship provides grants to students who have experienced parental incarceration. Eligible applicants must have a parent who is or has been incarcerated in a U.S. penitentiary, have lived in Missouri (or select Illinois metro counties) for at least two years, demonstrate significant financial need (with additional consideration requirements if SAI is over $17,500), have a minimum 2.0 GPA, and be pursuing a first technical, associate, or bachelor’s degree. 

Amethyst Scholarship
Deadline: April 15, 2026 
Award: Up to $5,000 

This scholarship supports students who, as a result of violent crime, have lost a parent. It will be awarded to students who are entering their final year of pursuing a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree, or a certification. Applicants must be residents of St. Louis, St. Louis County, or St. Charles County and demonstrate unmet financial need. Applicants must be age 24 or under.

Unbound Potential Scholarship

Deadline: April 1, 2026 
Award: $1,000 

This scholarship supports neurodivergent students pursuing college, trade school, or a certificate program. Applicants must have a diagnosed neurodivergent condition and live in one of the listed northwest or northeast Missouri counties included in the scholarship description.  

Trades and Vocational Pathway Scholarships 

Tammy Stratman Brown Charities Vocational and Trade School Scholarship 

Deadline: March 16, 2026 
Award: Varies 

This scholarship is for high school seniors who live in the Troy R-III or Wentzville R-IV school districts (including eligible private/home school students who live within the listed high school boundaries). Applicants must plan to attend an accredited trade, technical, or vocational school or program. Selection criteria include passion for the chosen field, relevant work/volunteer experience, general accomplishments, and financial need.  

IAABO/IAFO Technical School Scholarship 
Deadline: April 6, 2026 
Award: $2,000 

This scholarship is for high school seniors attending a designated IAABO-IAFO school who are planning to attend a technical/trade school. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and have a 2.0 GPA or higher.  

O’Fallon Firefighters Community Outreach Scholarship 
Deadline: April 15, 2026 
Award: $3,000 

This scholarship awards $3,000 to one high school senior who is a resident of the O’Fallon Fire Protection District. The scholarship must be used for higher education in a technical, trade, vocational, or certificate-level program, or for a degree/certification in the emergency services field.  

CCDI Build Our Future Diversity Scholarship 
Deadline: April 3, 2026 
Award: Up to $5,000 per year, renewable (up to $20,000 total) 

This scholarship supports students with a strong interest in pursuing a degree or credential related to the construction industry. Applicants must be high school seniors and residents of St. Louis City or St. Louis County, and pursue a degree or credential in areas such as engineering, architecture and design, construction/project management, safety management, information technology related to construction, or CTE trades programs.

Graybar Construction Trades Scholarship 
Deadline: April 15, 2026 
Award: up to $2,500, renewable 

This scholarship supports students pursuing careers in the construction trades. Applicants must plan to enroll full-time in a nonprofit two-year college, technical, trade, or vocational program, or participate in an apprenticeship program leading to work in fields such as carpentry, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, welding, construction management, and related trades. Students must have a minimum 2.5 GPA (or equivalent), demonstrate financial need, and show commitment to a career in the construction industry. Preference is given to students who have not previously completed a bachelor’s degree. 

Statewide Missouri Opportunities 

Show-Me to College Scholarship 
Deadline: April 1, 2026 
Award: Varies, up to $2,000, renewable (anticipated total $8,000) 

This scholarship is for Missouri high school seniors with a Student Aid Index of 12,000 or less and a GPA of 3.50 or higher (through at least seven semesters at a Missouri high school). Applicants must plan to enroll full-time at an eligible Missouri public or private higher education institution and show involvement in activities such as community service, extracurricular participation, employment, and/or family caregiving. 

The MOACAC Bridge to College Scholarship 
Deadline: March 1, 2026 
Award: $3,500 

This scholarship supports Missouri high school seniors who fall into the financial aid gap. Eligible applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or greater, be Missouri residents or Missouri high school graduates, enroll full-time at a MOACAC member postsecondary institution, and submit a FAFSA Submission Summary showing a Student Aid Index between 7,400 and 20,000.  

Braxton Rethwisch Scholarship 
Deadline: March 1, 2026 
Award: $1,000 (non-renewable) 

This scholarship is for Missouri high school seniors who demonstrate commitment to learning, leadership skills, and community service involvement. Eligible applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or greater, be Missouri residents or Missouri high school graduates, graduate from a MOACAC member high school, and enroll full-time at a MOACAC member postsecondary institution. 

Purdy Emerging Leaders Scholarship 
Deadline: April 15, 2026 
Award: up to $5,000, renewable 

This scholarship supports Missouri undergraduate students who demonstrate leadership, character, academic achievement, and financial need. Applicants must be Missouri residents entering their second, third, or fourth year at an eligible Missouri public or private institution, have a cumulative college GPA of 2.50 or higher, be enrolled full-time (unless in their final semester), submit a FAFSA, and provide one recommendation. Both traditional students and adult learners returning to complete a degree are eligible. 

Final Reminder 

Scholarships are not one-size-fits-all. Whether you are navigating a significant life circumstance, pursuing a trade or technical program, or preparing for college anywhere in Missouri, there are opportunities currently open that may help reduce the cost of your education. Be sure to check the site often, as new scholarships are added daily!   

Students and families can view all open opportunities and begin the application process at: 
https://stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com/