The Ron Brown Scholar Program
The Ron Brown Scholar Program (RBSP) is a selective scholarship program available to high school senior to advance higher education for community-minded and intellectually gifted African Americans. RBSP competitively awards the most talented and economically challenged high school seniors who demonstrate a keen interest in public service, leadership development, community engagement, business entrepreneurship and global citizenship.
This leading scholarship is a legacy of the late Ronald H. Brown, a trailblazer in public service, business entrepreneurship, and a powerful advocate for global citizenship. It stands as a testament to the power of opportunity, fostering intellectual growth and leadership among African American high school seniors.
The Foundation
Inspired by the life and legacy of Ron Brown, a trailblazing figure and advocate for communities of color, the Ron Brown Scholarship is founded on four key pillars:
- Public Service
- Community Engagement
- Business Entrepreneurship
- Global Citizenship
These principles guide the scholarship program and define its essence. The scholars selected not only receive $40,000 to help them pay for college, they also earn the distinct honor of being named a Ron Brown Scholar.
The Reward
The Ron Brown Scholarship is among the most generous scholarships out there, rewarding winners with a total of $40,000 dispersed over a 4-year college journey - $10,000 a year. This financial assistance is not the end of the benefits. Scholarship winners also receive indispensable mentorship, opportunities for community engagement, and leadership development.
Conditions and Limitations
The Ron Brown Scholarship is available for use in conjunction with other financial aid from a chosen 4-year degree-granting institution by the student. This scholarship does not impose any restrictions on the field of study, except for vocational or technical training.
Eligibility Criteria
The Ron Brown Scholarship targets accomplished students who identify as part of Black and African American communities who must also be US citizens or permanent residents. The catch? Only high school seniors are eligible to apply.
How to Stand Out
To catch the eye of the scholarship committee, candidates should focus on the following:
- Academic Achievement: Show that you've utilized the challenging courses offered in various subjects.
- Leadership Ability: Display evidence of part-time work, caring for family, managing student organizations, or even starting a business.
- Community Service Activities: Highlight your involvement in the community and the community impact you've made.
- Demonstrated Financial Need: There's no income cutoff, so don't let financial circumstances deter you from application submission.
Application Materials
The online application process requires the following components:
- An application form from the website
- An official copy of your transcript
- Two letters of recommendation
- Two 500-word essay submissions
Notably, standardized test scores are not required due to the shift towards test-optional admission policies in recent years.
Recommendation Letters
Recommendation letters should preferably come from a high school teacher, counselor, or principal, and another from someone who can detail your academic achievement, leadership, community commitment, and character. Remember, family members can't write these recommendations for you.
How many students have benefited from the scholarship?
Since 1996, over 450 students have been recognized as Ron Brown Scholars, joining the ranks of those committed to furthering the mission of the late Ronald H. Brown. The scholarship awards between 45-50 hardworking students with the chance to
Deadlines and Final Notes
The application process for the Ron Brown Scholar Program begins after August 1 of your senior year of high school. All application materials must be submitted by January 9, even if that date falls on a weekend. Early submissions are welcome and might save you from last-minute stress.
Remember to verify all details with the official Ron Brown Scholarship website, as criteria and deadlines may vary year to year.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the mission of the Ron Brown Scholar Program?
Named after the late Ronald H. Brown, the program seeks to advance higher education for community-minded and intellectually gifted African Americans. - Is the scholarship tied to a specific field of study?
No, the scholarship can be used to pursue any academic discipline. If you are seeking a higher education with a set career objective, you can apply for this competitive scholarship to pursue any field of study of your choice. - Who is eligible to apply?
U.S. citizens or permanent residents and African American student seniors who demonstrate academic excellence as well as leadership potential. The scholarship committee is seeking students who display a genuine dedication to serving their communities and those who require financial assistance to pursue their higher education goals. Visit the official website to apply today.
