Encourage Your Student to Apply for Scholarships!

Parents, did you know that the rising cost of education (tuition, housing, books and everyday living expenses) is the top concern for today’s graduating high school and continuing education students?Scholarships, like the ones offered by the Ascentra Scholarship Program, are one of the most effective tools to ease their burden, yet many students never apply because they assume they won’t qualify. The truth is, applying for scholarships can profoundly shape your student’s future, and your encouragement plays a major role.Scholarships don’t just reduce the price of college; they reduce stress! Students today often balance full schedules and multiple jobs, which can limit study time, create burnout and affect grades. Even one or two modest scholarships can cut back the hours they need to work, giving them more time to focus on classes, extracurriculars and opportunities that build confidence and career readiness.

Importantly, scholarships also protect both your student’s and your family’s financial future. Every award they secure is money they don’t need to borrow. Over four years, even small scholarships can translate into thousands of dollars saved in interest, giving your student a stronger start after graduation.

What many families don’t realize is that many scholarships go unclaimed each year due to low application numbers. Local organizations, community groups, employers and associations often receive far fewer applicants than expected. That means your student’s chances may be much higher than they think.

Encourage your student to apply early, often and widely. Treat scholarship applications like part-time work that pays off not just this year, but for years to come. Scholarships aren’t just financial help, they are an investment in your student’s success, stability and future freedom.

Ascentra’s Scholarship Program offers fifteen $1,000 scholarships to high school graduates, undergraduates, trade and vocational students each year.

Students can easily apply online by visiting Ascentra.org/scholarships.

Deadline: March 31, 2026

$1,000 scholarships go to:

• High school student members planning to enter college
• Non-traditional student members aged 19+ attending higher education.
• Student members entering vocational school or a college with a trade program