5 Best Delaware Scholarships
Updated February 7, 2022 | BestCollegeReviews.org Staff
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Despite its compact borders of only 1,982 square miles, the "Small Wonder" has no shortage of scholarships in Delaware. Sitting on the Delmarva Peninsula, Delaware inhabits around 945,950 residents in Kent, Sussex, and New Castle counties. First settled by the Dutch in 1631, Delaware attracts college students with its rich history and landmarks like the Kalmar Nyckel. Scholars select from five public, four private schools and many online college programs within close proximity to Washington, DC and Philadelphia. Whether you'd prefer a small business school like Goldey-Beacom College, large research institution like Wilmington University, or vocational training provider like Delaware Technical Community College, top-notch programs are available. The U.S. News ranked the University of Delaware as America's 79th best. Plus, the following 5 money-saving scholarships for Delawareans can pay for your college endeavors.
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According to 24/7 Wall St., Delaware claims America's #7 spot for most expensive colleges with an average tuition cost of $11,261. Over the last five years, tuition has risen by a whopping 27.9 percent in Delaware. Private, nonprofit institutions often have exponentially higher sticker prices too. For instance, the total cost of attendance without financial aid at Wesley College in Dover is $39,190 per year! Scholarships are vital resources offering free payments toward students' education based on academic merit or need. Make your college experience in rustic New England more affordable with these 5 best scholarships in Delaware.
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Endowed by John W. Rollins Sr. for $10,000, the Horatio Alger Scholarship Delaware is gifted annually to eight graduating high school seniors. The need-based awards assist teenagers who’ve exhibited determination to overcome adversity and reach higher education. Until October 25th, Delaware residents can apply with a support form and tax documentation.
Eligibility
- Pursue a bachelor’s degree at an accredited nonprofit U.S. college
- Demonstrate financial need with a maximum family income of $55,000
- Be actively involved in co-curricular activities and community service
- Carry a minimum grade point average of 2.0 (on 4.0 scale)
Aligned with its motto “Service Above Self,” the Christiana Rotary Club awards two George A. Thompson Memorial Scholarships for $500 per semester or $1,000 annually. College-bound seniors living in Wilmington, Newark, New Castle, Middletown, Bear, and surrounding towns could apply. Applications must be received by March 30th with an unofficial transcript, college acceptance letter, and list of extra-curricular projects.
Eligibility
- Graduate from a public high school in New Castle County
- Matriculate full-time at an accredited college or university
- Show evidence of leadership ability through community service
- Not be the child of a Christiana Rotary member
Ranging from $500 to $5,000 apiece, the Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) confers 60 annual scholarships for in-state tuition assistance. Each fund shares the March 15th application deadline, but award criteria can vary drastically. For example, the Jill Biden Scholarship selects Delawareans who’ve chosen healthcare or education careers. The Keisha M. Michael Memorial Scholarship chooses African Americans enrolling in HBCUs with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Eligibility
- Legally reside within the “Diamond State” for 12+ months
- Be completing a state-approved diploma or GED
- Pursue an accredited two or four-year collegiate program
- Exhibit academic merit and/or unmet financial need
Established in 1998, the JBL Scholarship Foundation honors John Bernard “Mike” Lynch’s success through adversity to become the President of the Siscoe Gold Mine in Quebec. This $10,000 four-year scholarship supports Delaware high school seniors and current undergraduates under age 30 who are earning their first bachelor’s degree. Application packets must arrive with a minimum 500-word personal essay before March 15th.
Eligibility
- Reside in Delaware or within 20 miles of the border
- Exhibit academic excellence with a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Achieve an SAT score of 1650 or higher (2400 scale)
- Maintain satisfactory progress to graduate in four years
The Delaware Department of Education confers the Herman M. Holloway, Sr. Memorial Scholarship each Spring. Named after the state’s first African American Senator, the fund covers full tuition, room and board, and textbooks for four years at Delaware State University. Interested students can apply online until March 6th by submitting a 1,000-word essay describing the unique challenges faced by their generation.
Eligibility
- Be United States citizens or permanent residents
- Attend Delaware high schools from 9th grade on
- Rank in the upper half of their graduating class
- Present a minimum combined SAT score of 1000 (1600 scale)