Post-Secondary Education Scholarships

For Graduating High School Seniors and Adults Going Back to School

Polk County Community Foundation Scholarships begin with the passion of donors who have created and contributed to a variety of funds. Awards are given on a competitive basis to students who wish to continue their education or training at an accredited nonprofit college, university, technical, or vocational institution. Scholarships are awarded in a competitive application process by our Scholarship Committee in accordance with each donor's criteria. The criteria for these scholarships and that of other local scholarship providers, are listed in the Kirby Handbook of Polk County Area Scholarships, a booklet published annually by the Foundation.

Increased donor gifts now allow the Foundation to award approximately $300,000 each year to to qualified graduating high school seniors and adults going back to school. All scholarships are a minimum of $1,000 and are awarded based on criteria established by donors and the Foundation's Board of Directors to recognize the unique needs, interests, and accomplishments of students. The Foundation values all students and their potential to contribute to the well-being of our community.

Scholarship Applications

Graduating high school seniors and adults going back to school may apply for scholarships using our online application portal. Click the button below to create or access your account and complete an application.

GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS
*CLOSED* Class of 2025 Application deadline was extended to Monday, October 21, 2024 by 5:00 pm
Graduating seniors who are residents of Polk County, NC or Landrum, SC, or all those enrolled in Polk County Schools are eligible to apply. Please contact us if you have any questions or need technical support.

ADULTS GOING BACK TO SCHOOL
*CLOSED* 2024 Application deadline was Thursday, May 30, 2024 by 5:00 pm. (Note: The 2025 Application will be published shortly and the deadline will be April 1, 2025.)
Adults who live in Polk County, NC or Landrum, SC who are interested in completing any level of post-secondary education and career training are encouraged to apply. Financial need is a requirement for adult students. These scholarships are not intended for traditional age, currently enrolled college students. Please contact us if you have any questions or need technical support.

AFS Study Abroad Scholarships

For Local High School Students to Live and Study Abroad

The AFS Polk County Community Foundation Global Scholars Program is managed by the Polk County Community Foundation for well-qualified local students to participate in the AFS experience of studying abroad. Students are encouraged to apply to study abroad through AFS and receive the benefits of learning a new language, exploring the world, and making lifelong connections. More information about AFS is available by visiting the AFS-USA website. If you are interested in pursuing a scholarship to study abroad with AFS, please contact the Polk County Schools Community Partnerships Coordinator at 828-894-3051.