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How to Win Eagle Scout Scholarships


The highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America is called the Eagle Scout. Young men usually achieve this level only after a lot of hard work and dedication to the organization and its principles. Not only does this achievement demonstrate a high degree of commitment, leadership, and other important values, it also opens the doors for the opportunity to apply for Eagle Scout scholarships.

No matter what you plan to study in your post-secondary education, getting as many scholarships as possible is an important part of achieving your goals. This is one of the top ways to minimize university costs so that you can focus on academics instead of working or stressing over the high student loans hanging over your head. Scholarship money never has to be repaid and is available for high school students and college students during their time at school.

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Eagle Scout Scholarships?

Above all else, you must be an Eagle Scout to be eligible to apply for these scholarships. Also, you must be a member in good standing of the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA). This does not happen automatically when you become an Eagle Scout, so it is important to join by filling out all necessary paperwork and paying the fee (https://nesa.org/why-join/), which is currently quite affordable at just $100 per five years. A lifetime membership is available for $500 too.

Eagle Scout Scholarships apply to most post-secondary education opportunities including regular colleges with four-year programs, trade schools, and some approved certificate programs. They cannot be used for military academies or graduate school.

How to Impress the Scholarship Committee

It takes more than membership in the NESA to earn one of these great scholarships. In order to impress the people who decide who gets the money, you must include all necessary documentation and proof in your application package. In short, you must show a dedication to scouting, community service, and your academic career. Maintain high grades to achieve standing in the top third of your class, take part in local service projects, and continue to be active in scouting itself.

How Much Are Eagle Scout Scholarships?

Although all of the scholarships are provided through the NESA, there are actually four options with different award amounts. The Lawrence S. and Mabel Cooke Scholarship gives multiple awards of $25,000 to $48,000 spread over the course of a four-year school experience. The National Eagle Scout Association Scholarship gives out $5,000 for a variety of reasons. The Hall/McElwain Scholarship offers the same amount and the Palmer Scholarship gives $2,500 to Eagle Scouts who turn in an impressive application.

If you have achieved the highest scouting rank, it makes sense to apply for Eagle Scout Scholarships in your senior year of high school and throughout your college career. As long as you maintain active membership with the NESA and participate successfully in your classes and the scouting program, you have the opportunity to get money for school that you never have to pay back.