2027 scholarship intake (early-November opening; exact day unannounced)
OpensTo Be Announced
DeadlineJanuary 15, 2027
Scholarship Opportunity
Marilyn Lester and William Lester Scholarship
Offered by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina
Renewable aid for Asheville seniors attending one of ten specified NC public universities.
Minimum GPA3.5+
EssayRequired
RenewableYes
Grade LevelHigh School Senior
Application Timeline
Important application dates
This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.
Eligibility
- Graduating senior of Asheville High School in Buncombe County; SILSA applicants should confirm eligibility with the sponsor's current packet.
- Attend full time in a standard course at Appalachian State, NC A&T, NC Central, NC State, UNC Asheville, UNC Chapel Hill, UNC Charlotte, UNC Greensboro, UNC Wilmington or Western Carolina; awards are not paid at other schools.
- Demonstrate financial need, at least a 3.5 GPA (weighting unspecified), median-or-above SAT OR ACT performance and extracurricular participation.
Requirements
- Complete the online application, personal/college statements and activity information.
- Provide a transcript, SAT OR ACT scores as requested by the current packet, and two recommendation letters; financial information is required for need consideration.
- Submit an additional two-double-spaced-page essay about growing up or living in Asheville and its impact on your future.
How to Apply
- 1Check the sponsor's early-November opening and any school counselor selection stage.
- 2Follow the current SmarterSelect link and submit the complete application and two recommendations by January 15, 2027.
Essay Support
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