Bill Countryman Scholarship Program

Name: The Bill Countryman Scholarship Program

Award Amount: Varies (total of $35,000 in scholarship funds awarded annually)

Information and Eligibility:
Each year, Credit Union 1 proudly offers the Bill Countryman Scholarship Program to Alaskans of all ages who are pursuing higher education. Established in honor of former board member Bill Countryman, whose belief was that “education and adventure are what keep you young,” this long-running scholarship program helps Alaskans advance their academic and vocational goals. Now in its 38th year, Credit Union 1 awards a combined total of $35,000 in scholarships to selected recipients.

Eligibility criteria include:

• Membership: Applicant (or their parent) must be a Credit Union 1 member for at least one year as of March 31, 2025.
• Age and Education Level:
  • Individuals of any age continuing education at an accredited college or vocational school.
  • High school seniors applying to an accredited college or vocational school.
  • Junior high or high school students (through 11th grade) applying to the Johns Hopkins CTY Program.
• Financial Need: Must demonstrate financial need.
• Community Involvement: Must provide documentation of community service or extracurricular activities (no minimum hours required).
• Essay Requirement: Applicants must share how higher education will shape their future goals and plans.

Additional Details:

• No class or major restrictions; funds may be applied toward overall tuition.
• CU1 employees and family members are ineligible; employees may instead apply for internal tuition assistance benefits.
• Applicants may reapply annually—previous applicants are welcome to apply again.
• All applications must be submitted electronically; paper submissions are not accepted.

Application Requirements:

• Three letters of recommendation.
• School transcripts.
• SAT or ACT scores (if applicable).

Deadline:

• Application Due:March 31.

Apply Now

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