NESA scholarships
Are you an Eagle Scout looking to soar in your academic journey? The National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) offers a golden opportunity to achieve educational success with their exclusive scholarships. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of NESA Scholarships, uncovering the path to academic triumph, funding your dreams, and becoming a well-rounded scholar!
Achieve Educational Success with the National Eagle Scout Association Scholarship (NESA) is not just a distant dream; it’s a tangible reality. Let’s embark on this incredible journey together!
What is the National Eagle Scout Association Scholarship (NESA)?
NESA Scholarships are a prestigious financial aid opportunity designed exclusively for Eagle Scouts. These scholarships aim to recognize and reward the dedication, commitment, and leadership skills that Eagle Scouts have demonstrated throughout their scouting journey. Whether you’re already enrolled in college or on the cusp of your high school graduation, NESA Scholarships offer a path to unlock educational success.
Why Should You Consider NESA Scholarships?
Now that you have a clear understanding of what NESA Scholarships are, you might wonder why they’re worth considering. Here’s the scoop:
Exclusive to Eagle Scouts
NESA Scholarships are tailored for Eagle Scouts, recognizing the dedication and commitment you’ve put into your scouting journey.
Financial Aid
College can be financially daunting, but NESA Scholarships can significantly ease that burden by providing funds to support your education.
Acknowledgment of Leadership
These scholarships are a testament to your leadership and community service experiences as an Eagle Scout.
Access to a Supportive Network
Becoming a NESA Scholar means joining a community of like-minded individuals who share your values and goals.
Encouragement for Academic Excellence:
NESA Scholarships motivate you to maintain high academic standards, which can have a positive impact on your overall success.
Enhance Your Resume:
Having NESA Scholarships on your resume can set you apart in the competitive job market. Employers often value the leadership and commitment demonstrated by Eagle Scouts..
Application Process Timeline
- Eagle Board of Review Date: Your Eagle Board of Review must be conducted on or before January 24, 2024.
- Application Portal Open: The application portal will be open from December 1, 2023, through January 31, 2024.
- Application Deadline: Your application must be completed and submitted by 11:59 p.m. CST on January 31, 2024.
- Scholarship Award Announcement: Scholarship awards for the 2023-2024 periods will be announced on June 10, 2024.
Eligibility Standards
To qualify for NESA scholarships, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- NESA Membership: You must be a member of the National Eagle Scout Association to apply for our scholarships.
- Academic Stage: Eagle Scouts can apply for NESA scholarships starting from their senior year of high school through their junior year in an undergraduate program, or by the halfway point of their associate degree program or skilled trade program.
- Recurrence: Each recipient is eligible for a NESA scholarship only once.
- Enrollment: You must be currently enrolled or accepted by an accredited educational institution as a full-time student, with a minimum of 12 credit hours. This applies to programs leading to an academic degree, including associate degrees, and skilled trade programs.
- Cooke Four-Year Scholarship: Awardees of this scholarship must be enrolled in an accredited four-year college or university as full-time students, taking at least 12 credit hours in a program leading to a bachelor’s degree.
- Exclusions: NESA scholarships are not available for students attending U.S. military academies or graduate students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees.
Applying for a NESA Scholarship: Step-by-Step Guide
To initiate the application process, follow these steps:
- NESA Membership: You must be a NESA member to apply, but you won’t need any BSA membership numbers or IDs to update your application.
- Access the Application Portal: Click the “CLICK HERE TO APPLY” button below to access the NESA scholarship portal. This is the only way to submit your application. If it’s your first time visiting the portal, click “New applicant” to begin the application process.
- Incomplete Application: You don’t have to complete the application in one go; you can save and return to it later. Make sure to save the link provided to access your application.
- Avoid Duplications: If you’ve already created an application, do not use the “New applicant” button to access the portal again. It will create a new application, which is unnecessary.
- Troubleshooting: If you log in and don’t see your scholarship application, it’s likely because you didn’t use the link provided. Please refrain from creating a new application and log in using the provided link.
NESA Scholarships for the 2023-2024 Academic Year: Lawrence S. and Mabel Cooke Scholarship
The Lawrence S. and Mabel Cooke Scholarship is a prestigious award established in memory of Lawrence S. Cooke’s late wife, Mabel Cooke. This scholarship recognizes Eagle Scouts who have displayed active participation in school, Scouting activities, and community service. Awardees must also demonstrate a profound understanding of the principles of service to the community, service to Scouting, and character. Financial need will be considered, and recipients should articulate what sets their financial need apart from others.
- Four-Year $48,000 Scholarship: One recipient will be selected for this four-year scholarship, receiving up to $12,000 per year for four years.
- Four-Year $25,000 Scholarship: Four recipients will be chosen for this four-year scholarship, receiving up to $6,250 per year for four years.
- One-Year $10,000 Scholarships: One recipient will be selected from each National Scouting Territory (NST) for a one-year $10,000 scholarship.
Conditions for Receiving a Scholarship Award
Awardees must adhere to the following conditions:
- NESA Membership: Maintain active NESA membership throughout the award period.
- Enrollment: Register and maintain full-time student status at your selected college/university or skilled trade program during the scholarship’s duration.
- Funds Disbursement: All scholarship funds will be paid directly to your chosen college/university or skilled trade program to cover tuition, room, board, and books for a maximum of four consecutive years.
- Payment Verification: NESA will submit payment to the selected college/university or trade program upon receipt of a school/program course schedule confirming full-time status.
- Cooke Four-Year Awardees: For Cooke four-year scholarship recipients, NESA will submit payment upon receipt of a course schedule and unofficial transcript verifying full-time status.
- Payment Schedule: Scholarship awards may be paid in installments or as a one-time payment, at NESA’s discretion, and must be used in the academic year awarded. Deferrals are not permitted.
- Thank You Video Report: Awardees are required to submit a short thank-you video report (2 – 4 minutes) to NESA at the beginning of the school year, sharing the importance of the scholarship to their academic success.
How to Win NESA Scholarships?
While the prospect of NESA Scholarships is exciting, you might be wondering how to secure one for yourself. Here’s the roadmap to success:
Maintain High Academic Standards:
NESA Scholarships often require you to have strong academic performance. To achieve educational success with NESA, focus on your studies and aim for excellence.
Demonstrate Commitment to Scouting:
Show your unwavering dedication to scouting and your community. Active participation in scouting activities and service projects can significantly boost your chances.
Get Involved in Your School:
Engage in extracurricular activities at your school to demonstrate leadership and a commitment to personal development.
Prepare an Outstanding Application:
Your application is your chance to shine. Write a compelling essay that highlights your achievements, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.
Seek Letters of Recommendation:
Obtain strong letters of recommendation from mentors, teachers, or community leaders who can vouch for your character and potential.
Apply Early:
Be diligent in applying for NESA Scholarships. Some scholarships have limited slots, so the early bird gets the worm!
Showcase Your Service Record:
Your history of community service as an Eagle Scout is a powerful tool. Highlight your impact on the community and how you’ve made a difference.
Don’t Be Discouraged by Rejection:
If you don’t win a scholarship on your first try, don’t be discouraged. Keep applying, refining your application, and showcasing your growth as a scholar and leader.
FAQs
Can I apply for NESA Scholarships if I’m already in college?
Absolutely! NESA Scholarships are available to both high school students and college enrollees, so you can apply at any stage of your academic journey.
How many scholarships does NESA offer annually?
The number of scholarships and their amounts can vary from year to year, but there are usually multiple opportunities available.
Can NESA Scholarships be used for any college or university?
NESA Scholarships are typically applicable to accredited educational institutions, so you have some flexibility in your choice of college or university.
What’s the deadline for applying for NESA Scholarships?
Deadlines may vary, so make sure to check the specific application dates on the NESA website.
Conclusion
Achieve Educational Success with the National Eagle Scout Association Scholarship (NESA) by seizing the incredible opportunities it offers. These scholarships not only provide financial aid but also recognition of your dedication and leadership as an Eagle Scout. Follow the road to academic triumph by maintaining high academic standards, demonstrating your commitment to scouting, and showcasing your service record.
Remember, NESA Scholarships can be a game-changer in your academic journey, setting you on the path to success and opening doors to a brighter future. So, don’t wait – start your NESA Scholarship journey today and soar to new heights in your educational pursuits!