Ron Brown Scholar Program Opening Soon
Offered by Ron Brown Scholar Fund / CAP Charitable Foundation
About This Scholarship
The Ron Brown Scholar Program awards $40,000 — paid as $10,000 a year over four years — to Black high school seniors who combine academic excellence with leadership, community service, and financial need. About 20 scholars are chosen from roughly 5,000 applicants each year, putting the odds well under 1% — but strong applicants who miss the final cut aren't empty-handed: the top 2-3% of remaining candidates, around 200 students, are named Ron Brown Captains and invited into the Ron Brown Leaders Network for ongoing development opportunities.
Founded in 1996, the program has awarded more than $34 million in scholarships and leadership development to roughly 700 scholars, and it functions as much as a lifelong community as a check: scholars report a 99% graduation rate and stay connected through mentoring and career networks.
Applications are due December 1, with counselor letters due December 15 and winners notified by April 1. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required, and current college students aren't eligible — this is a high-school-senior-only program.
Eligibility
- Black/African American high school senior
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Demonstrated financial need
- Strong academic record, leadership, and community service
How To Apply
- Complete the online application at ronbrown.org after it opens in early September of senior year
- Submit two ~500-word essays plus supporting materials by the December 1 deadline; counselor recommendation is due December 15
- Finalists interview in spring before scholars are announced
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the $40,000 paid out?
In four annual installments of $10,000, which you can use at any accredited four-year college for education-related expenses.
What are my odds?
It's highly selective — roughly 20 scholarships from thousands of applications — but the top 2-3% of non-winners get Ron Brown Captain status, which comes with its own network and opportunities.