2026-2027 Associates Scholars Empowerment Program – UNCF

The 2026-2027 Associates Scholars Empowerment Program is a renewable, need-based scholarship from UNCF (United Negro College Fund) designed to support students enrolled in two-year degree or certificate programs. Preference is given to students attending one of the nation's two-year Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) or Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs).

Award Amount: Up to $2,500 (renewable, need-based)

Eligibility Requirements:
• Must be a student enrolled full-time or part-time at an accredited U.S.-based, two-year degree-granting institution OR an accredited, UNCF-approved certificate-granting program in the upcoming 2026-2027 academic year.
• Must have a minimum 2.25 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) OR show completion of a GED.
• Preference given to students at two-year HBCUs and PBIs.
• Must demonstrate financial need.

Application Deadline: June 8, 2026

How to Apply: Complete all required steps through the UNCF scholarship portal at opportunities.uncf.org. All sections, essays, and supporting documents must be submitted before the closing date — incomplete applications will not be considered.

This program reflects UNCF's broader mission of expanding access to higher education for Black and African American students, with particular focus on the two-year institutional pathway that often serves as an essential bridge to four-year degree attainment.