Polish Falcons Richard C. Gorecki Scholarship
Offered by Polish Falcons of America
About This Scholarship
Polish Falcons of America, a Pittsburgh-based Polish American fraternal benefit society founded in the 19th century, has run a scholarship program since 1962. Its largest award is the Richard C. Gorecki Scholarship, funded by a bequest from a longtime member of Nest 79 in Southgate, Michigan. Up to three $10,000 grants are awarded each year when qualified applicants apply.
This is a members-only award with a long runway. Applicants must have been Benefit Members in good standing for at least four years, holding a permanent plan for at least one year before applying, and national dues must be current. Polish Falcons membership comes through its life insurance and annuity products, so the cost depends on the plan.
The grant targets upper-level students: full-time juniors and seniors at accredited four-year colleges, plus full-time graduate students, with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 through sophomore year. Members of Nest 79 receive an extra $1,000, and members of other District XIII nests receive an extra $500.
Eligibility
- Polish Falcons of America Benefit Member in good standing for at least four years, with a permanent plan held at least one year before applying (membership is through PFA insurance/annuity products, which carry premiums)
- National dues must be current
- Full-time student at an accredited four-year public or private college or university who is at least a junior, or a full-time graduate student
- Minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA maintained through sophomore year
- One-time grant; previous Gorecki recipients cannot reapply (prior Starzynski recipients may apply)
- Grant must be collected by the fall 2027 semester while the recipient is enrolled
How To Apply
- Confirm your Benefit Membership length and plan type with Polish Falcons of America
- Click APPLY NOW under the Gorecki Scholarship on the PFA scholarships page
- Complete the application and submit academic records showing your cumulative GPA
- Submit by March 15, 2027; contact the PFA vice president listed on the page with questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a Polish Falcons member?
Yes. You must have been a Benefit Member in good standing for at least four years, with a permanent plan for at least one year before applying.
Is there extra money for certain members?
Yes. Recipients from Nest 79 receive an additional $1,000, and recipients from other District XIII nests receive an additional $500.
Can freshmen apply?
No. Applicants must be at least juniors at a four-year school or full-time graduate students.