Requirements to Apply:

• Must be a Texas resident
• Must be a first-generation college student
• Currently a high school senior or college freshman, sophomore or junior
• Must demonstrate financial need
• Must demonstrate a history of community service
• Preferred populations: veterans, particularly service in Iraq or Afghanistan or similar
• GPA requirements to apply:
  • Minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale for students pursuing a 4-year degree
  • Minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale for students pursuing a 2-year degree
  • Please review this guide for instructions on converting your GPA to a 4.0 scale. GPA should be rounded to two decimal points.
    
    
• If you meet all of these requirements, visit our Application Process FAQ for helpful tips before you get started.

About the Scholarship Award:

• This scholarship is for the upcoming 2026-27 academic year.
  • Four (4) scholarships awarded out:
    • $3,500 for students pursuing a 4-year degree
    • $2,500 for students pursuing a 2-year degree
  • One-time award. Previous recipients may reapply as long as all eligibility requirements are met.
    
    
• What can the scholarship be used for?
  • The scholarship will be mailed directly to the student's college to be used towards tuition, required academic fees, and/or book expenses. 
  • Scholarship funding cannot be distributed directly to the student. Funding cannot be used for room and board, rent, meal plans, parking passes, or other similar living expenses.
    
    
• Are there any requirements I must meet if I'm selected as a scholarship recipient?
  • Recipients must attend an accredited public college or university in Texas.
    
  • Recipients must enroll in at least 12 credit hours for both the fall and spring semesters (or be enrolled full-time according to your school if it is on a different system).
  • Recipients must submit college enrollment information online through GHCF Scholar the summer before the academic year begins. This information is required in order for the scholarship check to be mailed to the student's college. Instructions will be included in the student's award letter.

What Is Needed for This Application?

• Eligibility questions based on the criteria above
• Two (2) essays
• One (1) recommendation form 
• Transcript (unofficial transcripts are accepted)
• Education information
• Financial information

Language Considerations:

• This application is offered in both English and Spanish.
• To view your application in Spanish, click the "EN" dropdown button in the top right corner of the screen and select "Español".
• You may toggle between English and Spanish while filling out your application.