SCHOLARSHIP FAQS
Why are most scholarships for Montrose County residents?
Donors establish scholarship fund select criteria that are important to them. Supporting local students remains a priority for many donors. If you reside in another area, you may want to check with your nearest community foundation.
How do I apply for multiple scholarships?
You may apply for as many scholarships as you like, as long as you meet each scholarship’s criteria. To apply for a scholarship, please review the individual scholarship requirements and then click on the application link. For most of our scholarships, you will apply online and the link will direct you to our scholarship software program Smarter Select. You must create an account with Smarter Select. From here you will be able to apply for multiple scholarships, save your work and track deadlines.
Are all MCF scholarships needs based?
The majority of Community Foundation scholarship donors have elected to make need one of the considerations during the selection process. However, there are a few that are not based primarily on need. If a scholarship is needs based that will be noted in the eligibility requirements.
How is financial need determined?
Students/families seeking financial assistance should begin the process by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Through the detailed information collected on the application, a Student Aid Report (SAR) is issued. The SAR, in turn, is submitted with college applications.
Are these scholarships taxable?
Awards are for direct expenses at the academic institution, such as tuition, fees and books. Money received for tuition, fees and books may not incur tax liability while amounts applied to room and board may be considered taxable income. Recipients should consult a tax professional for additional reporting responsibilities.
What is the application review process?
Every application is reviewed by members of MCF’s volunteer Scholarship Selection Committees. First MCF reviews applications for eligibility as we adhere to the specific eligibility criteria established by scholarship fund donors. After review, scholarship applications are evaluated on an objective and competitive basis, considering academic and nonacademic factors such as financial need, leadership, community service, and special circumstances.
May I receive scholarships from more than one fund with the MCF?
Yes. Students may be selected to receive a scholarship from more than one MCF scholarship fund.
When will I find out if I was chosen to receive a scholarship from MCF?
Different scholarships are announced at different times though the majority of our scholarships are announced in April. When you apply for a scholarship you will be notified of the timeline. If you are awarded a scholarship, you will need to fill out an acceptance form.
If I am awarded a scholarship, how much will the scholarship pay and how will it be paid?
The amount of the award for each scholarship is listed on the individual scholarship page. Checks are made payable to and mailed directly to the school.
Nathan Mathieu, Literature for Life Scholarship Recipient from 2021