Daniels Scholarship Program Opening Soon
Offered by Daniels Fund
About This Scholarship
The Daniels Scholarship Program, funded by cable-television pioneer Bill Daniels' foundation, is one of the largest four-year scholarships in the Rocky Mountain region. It serves high-achieving, values-driven seniors in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming who show financial need.
Funding depends on where scholars enroll: up to the full cost of attendance at Daniels partner schools, up to $25,000 per year at non-partner schools outside the four-state region, and up to $7,500 per year at non-partner schools within it. Scholars can attend any accredited nonprofit college or university in the U.S. and also receive coaching and a laptop stipend.
The application runs September 1 through October 15, 2026. The initial online application takes about an hour; semifinalists notified in mid-November then submit essays, recommendations, and verification documents, with finalists interviewed and new scholars announced the following year.
Eligibility
- Graduating high school senior residing in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, or Wyoming
- Minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA and ACT 18+ per section or SAT 490+ in Math and Reading/Writing
- Adjusted gross income of $100,000 or less (plus $10,000 per additional dependent)
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Demonstrated character, leadership, and commitment to giving back
How To Apply
- Complete the online application at danielsfund.org between September 1 and October 15, 2026 (about one hour).
- If named a semifinalist in mid-November, submit essays, recommendation letters, and verification documents.
- Finalists interview in February-March before scholars are announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Daniels Scholarship pay?
It depends on your school: up to full cost of attendance at Daniels partner schools, up to $25,000/year at non-partner schools outside the four-state region, or up to $7,500/year at non-partner schools within it — for four years.
Which states are eligible for the Daniels Scholarship?
Applicants must be residents of Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, or Wyoming, but scholars may attend any accredited nonprofit college or university in the United States.