Important Information

CCAPS scholarships are available each term and are open to both part-time and full-time students enrolled in CCAPS undergraduate and graduate degree programs or CCAPS undergraduate and graduate-level certificate programs. Limited funding is also available for nondegree students taking the next step in pursuing their educational goals through CCAPS.

Recipients are chosen on the basis of:

  • academic record
  • strength of personal statement
  • extracurricular activities or community involvement
  • professional development
  • financial need
  • special circumstances

Scholarship awards are applicable to tuition and required fees and typically range from $500 to $3,000 per term for undergraduate students and up to the cost of three credits for graduate students. Awards for non-degree students are one-time only awards applicable to tuition and required fees and typically range from $500 to $1,250.

All awards are based on the strength of the application, eligibility requirements, financial need, and credit load; the number of awards and award amounts vary based on applicant pools, donor guidelines, and funds available. All applicants are notified of CCAPS Scholarship Committee decisions within eight weeks of the scholarship deadline.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility requirements vary by scholarship fund and program, and students are considered for scholarship funds for which they meet the eligibility criteria. All applicants must be in good standing at the University of Minnesota; a United States citizen, permanent resident, or eligible noncitizen, including MN Dream Act and/or qualifying DACA student; and enrolled part-time or full-time. Both financial need and academic merit are required for most funds. CCAPS non-degree students must be taking undergraduate-level courses.

How to Apply

1. File the annual Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), if you have not already done so.

Undergraduate MN Dream Act and qualifying DACA students who would like to be considered should submit the MN Dream Act application and also notify the CCAPS Scholarship/FA and Stewardship Coordinator.

2. Write a Personal Statement (not to exceed 500 words)

This statement is required and will factor strongly in your application. If you have applied for financial aid before, we encourage you to refresh your statement to reflect your current status. Please submit original work only. A statement suspected of being generated by an AI (artificial intelligence) program will not be considered.

The personal statement should describe your:

  • previous education (including any lapses in your academic progress).
  • recent employment and unpaid volunteer work or other service.
  • extracurricular activities or community involvement, including descriptions of leadership held, distinctions, or recognition you have earned.
  • academic and professional goals and interests.
  • unique contributions you will bring to the field you are studying.
  • how this scholarship could help you reach your goals.

3. Prepare a resume (for assistance, connect with Career & Internship Services)

4. Complete, review, and edit your online application prior to submission. Changes cannot be made once your online application has been officially submitted.

5. Submit the online scholarship application by the term deadline to be considered.

Contact Information

Questions about CCAPS Scholarships? Contact ccapssch@umn.edu.