Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts scholarship and loan funds help students of the Pioneer Valley achieve their maximum potential by making higher education available without regard to financial circumstance. They also help supply the educated citizenry that is essential to the health of the region. Through a competitive award process, expert community volunteers insure that limited resources are provided to those most deserving of their assistance.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts scholarship and student loan program is available to students attending accredited institutions of higher education in the United States. Institutions of higher education are typically colleges, universities or schools that provide an education beyond a high school diploma. The term ‘college’ will be used from this point forward. Awards are made primarily to residents of Western Massachusetts except as noted in the fund descriptions. Each scholarship and loan fund has specific criteria which determine eligibility. Community Foundation scholarship details and descriptions along with a pdf of the scholarship brochure may be downloaded by clicking here.

The Community Foundation requires just one common application for all scholarship and loan funds under its management. Students, however, must reapply each year to be eligible. The online version (preferred) of common application available by clicking here, or, to print out a copy of the application you may download a pdf by clicking here.  Volunteer review committees made up of civic and educational leaders meet in May of each year to select recipients based on the information submitted by the applicant. The selection process is very competitive; most of these funds are based on financial need and scholastic ability, but many funds consider other criteria such as extracurricular activities, volunteer and community service or athletic activities.

Recipients are notified in June and scholarship awards are paid directly to the colleges. Loan awards are made directly to the students in time for the fall semester.

It is important to understand that the Community Foundation cannot consider the following:

• Applications and supporting material received after the deadline.
• Requests from students who reside outside the stated geographic areas.
• Awards that exceed the college’s cost of attendance.
• Unofficial academic transcripts.
• Requests for funds other than to provide financial assistance to students for the purpose of seeking a higher education.