Horatio Alger State Scholarships Opening Soon
Offered by Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans
About This Scholarship
Beyond its flagship National Scholarship, the Horatio Alger Association funds a network of state-specific scholarship programs that award $10,000 each to students who have persevered through serious adversity. The state awards are funded by Association Members and are earmarked for students in their home states — Alabama's program, for example, grants eight $10,000 scholarships in a single cycle — and every state program runs through the same undergraduate application as the National award.
That shared application is the key feature: students fill out one application during their junior year of high school and are automatically considered for every Horatio Alger program they qualify for, including their state's scholarship, the National Scholarship, and dozens of specialized member-funded awards. There is no fee to apply, and funds can be used at accredited institutions for a bachelor's degree.
Unlike most merit competitions, Horatio Alger awards center on critical financial need and resilience. Applicants describe the adversity they have faced alongside their academics, activities, and community service, and the Association pairs its money with ongoing support services once students become Scholars.
Eligibility
- Current high school junior enrolled full time in the United States (state scholarships are awarded through the junior-year undergraduate application)
- Demonstrated critical financial need
- Involvement in co-curricular and community service activities
- Integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident (proof may be required)
How To Apply
- Complete the single online undergraduate application at horatioalger.org during the posted window (opens December 1; junior application closes March 1) — one application covers the National, State, and specialized programs.
- Submit the adversity section, support form, counselor certification, and financial documentation requested in the application portal.
- Recipients are typically notified in May after a spring review period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I apply separately for my state's Horatio Alger scholarship?
No. One undergraduate application automatically considers you for every Horatio Alger program you are eligible for, including your state's $10,000 scholarship, the National Scholarship, and most specialized awards.
Which states have Horatio Alger state scholarships?
The Association administers state programs across the country — its scholarship listing is filterable by all 50 states plus D.C. Award counts vary by state (Alabama, for example, offers eight $10,000 awards), so check your state on the undergraduate scholarships page.