Ron Brown Scholar Program

Name: Ron Brown Scholar Program

Award Amount: Up to $40,000 total

Information And Eligibility:
The Ron Brown Scholar Program is a highly selective national scholarship designed to support outstanding African American high school seniors who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership ability, community service, and a strong commitment to public service. Named in honor of Ron Brown, the first African American U.S. Secretary of Commerce, this scholarship reflects his legacy of leadership, integrity, and dedication to improving communities through service and excellence.

The program awards scholarships to students who plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the United States. Scholars are selected based on a holistic review process that places significant weight on leadership potential, character, and demonstrated impact, rather than academic performance alone. Competitive applicants typically show sustained involvement in community organizations, student leadership roles, civic engagement initiatives, or service-driven projects that address social, educational, or economic challenges.

Ron Brown Scholars represent a wide range of intended majors, including but not limited to public policy, business, engineering, law, medicine, education, science, and the humanities. While there is no restriction on field of study, applicants who articulate a clear vision for using their education to create meaningful change tend to be especially strong candidates. The program values students who see higher education as a tool for leadership, service, and long-term societal contribution.

The scholarship provides up to $40,000, typically distributed in $10,000 installments over four years, contingent upon continued enrollment and satisfactory academic progress. Funds may be used for tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other education-related expenses. In addition to financial support, Ron Brown Scholars gain access to a powerful national network of alumni, leadership development opportunities, mentoring, and professional connections that extend well beyond graduation.

The Ron Brown Scholar Program is known for its rigorous selection process, with only a small number of scholars chosen each cycle from a large national applicant pool. Applicants are evaluated on academic performance, leadership experience, community service involvement, clarity of goals, and personal character. The program seeks students who have overcome adversity, shown resilience, and demonstrated a consistent commitment to excellence and service.

Applications are submitted through the Ron Brown Scholar Program’s official application portal. Early submission is strongly encouraged, as the program includes multiple review stages and finalist evaluations.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be an African American high school senior.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Must be planning to attend an accredited four-year college or university.
• Must demonstrate academic achievement and leadership ability.
• Must show a strong record of community service and civic engagement.
• Must demonstrate financial need.
• Must exhibit integrity, maturity, and a commitment to public service.

Application Requirements:

• Completed Ron Brown Scholar Program application.
• Official high school transcript.
• Personal essays addressing leadership, service, and future goals.
• Two letters of recommendation.
• Résumé or list of extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community involvement.

Deadline: January

Apply Now

View Scholarship Data

Scholarship Categorization