Scholarship Opportunity

Captain John G. Gardner, USMC, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Scholarship

Offered by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina

Need-based college support for eligible western-NC seniors related to a qualifying decorated Vietnam veteran.

EssayRequired
RenewableNo
Grade LevelHigh School Senior

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

2027 award; early-November opening day unannounced

OpensTo Be Announced
DeadlineFebruary 26, 2027

Eligibility

  • Be a graduating public/private high-school senior or equivalent student residing in the foundation's eighteen westernmost NC counties or Qualla Boundary.
  • Be related to a qualifying decorated Vietnam veteran; sponsor describes active-duty Vietnam service and requires medal/ribbon and DD-214 evidence.
  • Plan full-time attendance at an accredited U.S. community college or four-year institution in the fall after award.
  • Demonstrate financial need and sound academic performance.

Requirements

  • Complete the SmarterSelect application and personal statement, with two recommendations.
  • Provide sponsor's Vietnam service medal/ribbon proof and DD-214.
  • Submit the additional essay describing your veteran relationship, meaning of the service, a veteran interview and what you learned; maximum three double-spaced pages in a Word file.

How to Apply

  1. 1Watch for the early-November application release.
  2. 2Submit the application and both recommendations before the published close.

Essay Support

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