Ascentra Scholarship Program Offers $15,000 in Scholarships for 2026 School Year

In 2026, a total of $15,000 in scholarships will be awarded to 15 Ascentra student members to help offset the costs of attending postsecondary education through a college, university or trade program.

The program includes awards for three distinct types of students.

• Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to high school student members planning to enter college.
• Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to non-traditional student members aged 19 or over planning to attend higher education.
• Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to members entering vocational school or college with a trade program.

To make it easier for applicants, Ascentra offers an online application process. Students can easily apply for scholarships by visiting ascentra.org/scholarships. In addition, Ascentra partners with several great local organizations that offer scholarships. We’ve shared some of those on our site to make it easier for applicants to find additional opportunities.

Traditional and non-traditional students are judged on their essays, resumes, awards, extracurricular activities, volunteer services and work experience. This year’s 500-word essay question is, “Why is building good credit important for young adults, and what services or guidance could a credit union provide to help students build a strong financial future?”

Entrants for the vocational or trades scholarship will need to submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher or advisor and answer the following question in less than 75 words: “How do you plan to use the scholarship if awarded?”

“We know how tough it can be for young members to afford college or job training these days. That’s why we’re excited to offer $15,000 in scholarships to give our student members a little extra help as they pursue their goals,” said Linda Andry, President and CEO, Ascentra Credit Union. “We believe in their potential and want to do our part to make those dreams a little easier to reach.”

The Ascentra Scholarship Program allows students to apply every year they are enrolled in an accredited institution of higher learning and/or trade, even if they are previous recipients of the program.

For official rules and to apply for these scholarships and others, visit ascentra.org/scholarships. All entries must be submitted by the end of the day on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.