Robert H. Short Scholars Program
Offered by Cumberland Community Foundation
About This Scholarship
The Robert H. Short Scholars Program from Cumberland Community Foundation in Fayetteville, North Carolina, gives last-dollar awards to high-achieving, Pell-eligible seniors from Cumberland County. A last-dollar award fills in the cost that remains after other aid, and this one pays up to $7,500 per year for as many as four years, with a lifetime cap of $30,000.
Applicants must live in Cumberland County and graduate the following spring from a county high school, early college, or home school with a weighted GPA of 3.5 or higher. They must show Pell Grant eligibility through the Student Aid Index on their FAFSA and enroll full time at a public or private nonprofit college within six months of graduating. For-profit schools are not eligible, and financial need weighs heavily in scoring.
For the Class of 2027, the online application opened November 2, 2026, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on December 3, 2026. Students learn the results in mid-January 2027. Renewal requires full-time enrollment, a 3.0 cumulative GPA, and continued financial need.
Eligibility
- Proven residency in Cumberland County, North Carolina
- Graduating in spring 2027 from a Cumberland County high school, early college, or home school
- Weighted GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Pell Grant eligibility shown through the FAFSA Student Aid Index
- Must enroll full time at a public or private nonprofit college within six months of graduation (for-profit schools are not eligible)
How To Apply
- Complete the FAFSA and note your Student Aid Index
- Follow the How to Apply link on the program's page to open the online application
- Upload your Student Aid Index and high school transcript and request the required recommendations
- Submit by 11:59 p.m. on December 3, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the award?
Up to $7,500 per year for up to four years, capped at $30,000 in total. It is a last-dollar award, so it covers costs left after other aid.
When will I hear back?
The foundation plans to notify students January 19-20, 2027, and recipients must accept online by June 1, 2027.
How do I keep the scholarship?
Stay enrolled full time in good standing, keep at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA, show continued financial need, and file the renewal request on time.