Looking to pursue your undergraduate degree in the USA without financial stress? The Shawn Carter Scholarship 2026, offered by the Shawn Carter Foundation (SCF), is open for US citizens and permanent residents facing barriers like poverty or interrupted schooling. This funded program supports motivated students at any accredited college, providing up to $15,000 over multiple years to cover tuition and essentials, helping over 145 scholars annually.
This easy guide covers everything about the Shawn Carter Scholarship 2026, from benefits to application steps, in simple words for everyone. It’s more than money; it’s about resilience, community service, and mentorship to turn dreams into reality. Ready to apply starting April 1, 2026? Let’s get you started!
Why Choose the Shawn Carter Scholarship? A Quick Overview
Founded in 2006 by Jay-Z and Beyoncé, the Shawn Carter Foundation (SCF) believes education should be accessible to all, regardless of setbacks. It supports students nationwide, from high school seniors to those in vocational programs, emphasizing “giving back” through service and mentoring. With a focus on underserved youth, it has empowered thousands, many overcoming challenges like homelessness or incarceration.
Imagine funding your studies at a community college or four-year university, joining SCF’s network, and inspiring others. Recipients often graduate debt-free, launching careers in business, health, or activism. For 2026, SCF prioritizes holistic support, including financial literacy workshops. The multi-year grant builds stability for long-term success.
Ready for details? Let’s break it down.
Shawn Carter Scholarship 2026: Full Details
This scholarship funds the first undergraduate degree (2-4 years) at any accredited US institution, including vocational/trade schools. Grants up to $15,000 total, paid directly to the school, renewable yearly from admission to graduation. Applications open April 1, 2026, and close April 30, 2026 (11:59 PM EST), for fall 2026 enrollment.
You’ll apply online, sharing your story of resilience. New for 2026: Enhanced focus on mental health support and career mentoring for scholars.
Host Country and Funding
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United States |
| Funded By | Shawn Carter Foundation (SCF) |
| Degree Level | Undergraduate (first degree) |
| Financial Coverage | Funded (up to $15,000 total) |
Any accredited US college, from community colleges to universities.
Who Can Apply? Easy Eligibility Rules for 2026
SCF seeks resilient, motivated students under 25. Here’s what you need for 2026:
- Citizenship: US citizen or permanent resident.
- Age: 25 or younger.
- Education: High school senior, GED holder, or enrolled in 2/4-year undergrad/vocational program (first degree only).
- Academics: Minimum 2.0 GPA.
- Income: Household under $75,000/year.
- Other: Show determination despite barriers (e.g., poverty, teen pregnancy); commit to community service/mentoring.
GPA just 2.0? Highlight your story. A friend from Chicago won with 2.3 GPA by sharing her single-mom journey and volunteer work. Heart matters!
What’s Covered? Benefits of Shawn Carter Scholarship 2026
This multi-year grant eases college burdens. Here’s what you get for 2026:
- Tuition: Paid directly to school (up to full cost).
- Supplemental Expenses: Books, lab fees, travel, select living costs (e.g., food, laundry).
- Total Award: Up to $15,000 from admission to graduation (renewable yearly).
- Extras: Mentorship, community service opportunities, SCF network access.
- Give Back: Required service/mentoring builds leadership.
Note: Covers essentials; you handle extras. SCF’s focus on holistic support helps navigate college life.
What Documents Do You Need? Application Requirements
Prepare for online submission. Core items for 2026:
- Online Form: Personal info, essays on challenges/motivation.
- Transcripts: High school or college (showing 2.0+ GPA).
- Proofs: Citizenship/residency, income verification (tax forms).
- Essay: 500-1,000 words on resilience and goals.
- Recommendations: 1-2 from teachers/mentors.
- Optional Photo: Headshot (ID-style).
Tip: Be authentic in essays share specific hardships and how SCF fits your path, like overcoming eviction to chase nursing dreams.
How to Apply: Simple Steps for 2026
Apply online via SCF site. Here’s how from April 1, 2026:
- Visit Site: Go to SCF Scholarship after April 1, 2026.
- Start Form: Create account; fill personal/education details.
- Write Essay: Detail your story, goals, and “give back” plan.
- Upload Docs: Add transcripts, proofs, recs.
- Review/Submit: Check for errors; send by April 30, 2026 (11:59 PM EST).
- Follow Up: Email scsfapplicant@shawncartersf.com for questions.
New for 2026: Video essay option for storytelling. Start early for strong recs!
Deadline: Don’t Miss Out
Opens April 1, 2026. Closes April 30, 2026 (11:59 PM EST). Late apps rejected.
Extra Tips for Winning
- Storytelling: Use essays to show grit, like balancing jobs and school.
- Early Start: April 1 apps give time for edits/recs.
- New Focus: 2026 values mental health advocacy tie in if relevant.
- Service Proof: Mention past volunteering for edge.
Common Questions: Shawn Carter Scholarship FAQ
Who’s Eligible for Shawn Carter 2026?
US citizens/permanent residents 25 or under, 2.0+ GPA, household <$75,000, first undergrad degree seekers.
Can Community College Students Apply?
Yes! Any accredited 2/4-year or vocational program.
What Majors Are Eligible?
All fields for first undergrad degree.
Is There a GPA Requirement?
Minimum 2.0; higher helps, but story matters.
How Do I Apply?
Online via SCF site April 1-30, 2026. Details here.
Renewable?
Yes, up to $15,000 total; reapply yearly with service proof.
Is Insurance Included?
No; covers tuition/books/living select costs.
How Do I Contact SCF?
Email scsfapplicant@shawncartersf.com for questions.
When Are Results Out?
June-July 2026 via email.
Can I Work Part-Time?
Yes; grant supplements.
How Do I Win This Scholarship?
Compelling essay on resilience, strong recs, early app. Show community commitment.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Shawn Carter Journey Today
The Shawn Carter Scholarship 2026 empowers resilient students to earn their undergrad degree debt-free, with SCF’s support from start to finish. From overcoming odds to giving back, it’s empowering. I’ve seen recipients from low-income families graduate to lead nonprofits. You could be next!
Act now: Bookmark the site, draft your essay, and apply April 1-30, 2026. Questions? Comment below. Make 2026 your breakthrough year!
Official Site: Shawn Carter Foundation Scholarship
