Ron Brown Scholarship Program

Name: The Ron Brown Scholarship Program

Award Amount: $10,000 (renewable up to $40,000 total)

Information And Eligibility:
The Ron Brown Scholarship Program is one of the most prestigious and impactful scholarship opportunities available to African-American high school seniors in the United States. Established in honor of Ronald H. Brown, the first African-American U.S. Secretary of Commerce, the program is dedicated to supporting academically gifted students who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential, a strong commitment to community service, and significant financial need. Each year, the Ron Brown Scholar Fund selects between 10 and 20 high-achieving students to receive a renewable award of $10,000 per year, totaling up to $40,000 over four years of college.

Unlike many scholarship programs that limit recipients to specific majors or institutions, the Ron Brown Scholarship is intentionally broad and flexible. Scholars may attend any accredited four-year college or university in the United States and pursue any field of study—from STEM to the arts, humanities, business, or social sciences. This freedom allows award recipients to focus on their academic goals, personal passions, and long-term career pathways without financial constraints dictating their direction.

The selection process for the Ron Brown Scholarship is rigorous and holistic. Applicants must be African-American high school seniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Ideal candidates display academic excellence, a record of community engagement, leadership roles within their school or local organizations, and the drive to become agents of positive change. Because the program emphasizes service-minded leadership, applicants are evaluated not only on their academic achievements but also on their character, integrity, and commitment to uplifting their communities.

Finalists are invited—at no personal cost—to Washington, D.C. for Selection Weekend, an immersive experience during which they participate in interviews, group activities, and leadership evaluations. These interactions help the Selection Committee identify students who embody the spirit of public service and excellence that the scholarship seeks to promote. Winners gain not only financial support but also lifelong membership in a powerful national network of Ron Brown Scholars, mentors, alumni, and professional development resources.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be an African-American high school senior.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Must demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
• Must show a strong record of community service.
• Must demonstrate financial need.
• Current college students are not eligible.

Application Requirements:

• Completed scholarship application.
• Official high school transcript.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Personal essays demonstrating leadership, service, and academic potential.

Additional Details:

• Finalists are invited to Washington, D.C. for Selection Weekend at no cost.
• Scholarship funds may be used at any accredited four-year U.S. college or university.
• Benefits extend beyond financial support, including mentoring and networking.

Deadline: November

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