Losing a parent is an incredibly challenging and life-altering experience. It can cause financial strain and additional stress for a family, especially when paying for a child’s education. Thankfully, numerous scholarships are specifically designed to support students who have lost a parent.
In this article, we will explore several scholarships for children who lost a parent and discuss the requirements and eligibility criteria for each.
Scholarships For Children Who Lost A Parent
There are numerous scholarships for children who lost a parent. Some of these are discussed below.
James F. Byrnes Scholarship
The James F. Byrnes Scholarship is awarded to South Carolina high school seniors who have lost their parents. Established in 1949, this scholarship provides financial assistance to students to achieve their goals. Recipients can receive up to $4,500 per academic year, renewable for four years. More information about this scholarship can be found on the James F. Byrnes Foundation website.
Vera Yip Memorial Scholarship Award
The Vera Yip, Memorial Scholarship Award, was established in memory of Vera Yip, a woman who lost her battle with cancer. The scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of higher education for students who have lost a parent to cancer. The award amount varies, and the scholarship is open to students nationwide in the United States. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and academic achievement. For more information, visit the Vera Yip Memorial Scholarship Award website.
W. H. “Howie” McClennan Scholarship
The W. H. “Howie” McClennan Scholarship is available to children of deceased firefighters who were members of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). The scholarship financially assists students pursuing post-secondary education at an accredited college, university, or vocational school. The award amount varies; applications can be found on the IAFF website.
Children’s Scholarship Fund
The Children’s Scholarship Fund (CSF) provides partial tuition assistance for low-income families, including those who have experienced the loss of a parent, to attend private schools. CSF aims to empower families with choices in their children’s education, regardless of their financial situation. Award amounts vary, and scholarships are available to students in grades K-8. For more information, visit the Children’s Scholarship Fund website.
Requirements For Scholarships
Each scholarship has its unique eligibility requirements. Generally, these requirements include the loss of a parent, residency, and enrollment in an accredited educational institution. It is important to review each scholarship’s specific criteria before applying.
Financial Need
Many scholarships for children who have lost a parent are based on financial need. Applicants may be required to submit documentation of their family’s financial situation, such as tax returns or FAFSA information.
Age Restrictions
Some scholarships may have age restrictions, limiting eligibility to students within specific age ranges or grade levels. Review the scholarship criteria to determine if you or your child meet the age requirements.
Education Level Requirements
Scholarships may be available for various education levels, including primary, secondary, and post-secondary education. Verifying that the scholarship you are applying for aligns with your desired education level is essential.
Dependency Status
Some scholarships may require applicants to be dependents of the deceased parent at the time of their death. This may include proof of the relationship, such as a birth certificate or other legal documents.
Other Criteria (e.g., Law Enforcement Officer, Military)
Certain scholarships may be specific to children of parents who worked in particular fields or professions, such as law enforcement or the military. Applicants must provide documentation verifying their parent’s occupation or service in these cases.
Find Financial Assistance With Scholarships
Losing a parent is a tragic and life-changing event that can significantly impact a child’s future. Scholarships for children who lost a parent can provide much-needed financial assistance, enabling them to pursue their educational goals and ease the burden on their families. By researching and applying for scholarships that match their unique circumstances and requirements, students can continue their education journey with the support they need.
There are also many scholarships and grants for children with disabled parents. Discover more in our Help Choice resources.
