Applications for our 2026 scholarships are available. Learn more.

How to apply

Before you apply, you must read and agree to our terms and conditions posted below.

READ THIS CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU APPLY.

If you have questions you may email:

Stumptownscholars@gmail.com

By filling out this application, you agree to the following conditions and rules. You also agree that all work submitted (essays etc.) is your own, original, and unique work composed without technical assistance.

2026 Awards:
We are offering 5 x $10,000 scholarship to Eastside PPS Students.

You must plan to graduate in June 2026 from one of these schools:

Roosevelt, Jefferson, Benson, Grant, Franklin, McDaniel or Cleveland.

Additional Criteria: 
  1. You plan to attend an accredited 4-year college/university in the USA in Fall 2026
  2. Minimum high school GPA 3.5 through graduation.
  3. By applying you agree to allow Stumptown Scholars to use your name and image on our website or other outlets.
  4. By applying you agree you are willing to speak in-person or by telephone with board members to confirm elements of your application and answer additional questions. These conversations may be used by the Stumptown Scholars board members to determine your eligibility for a scholarship.
  5. You must upload a copy of your high school transcript as part of your application.
Certain Conditions:
  1. This $10,000 scholarship is payable over four (4) years in equal installments of $2500 per year.
  2. Payment is made to your university to pay for expenses directly related to your college education.
  3. You must maintain a minimum of 3.25 cumulative GPA in college to renew your scholarship each year.
  4. It is your responsibility to notify Stumptown Scholars in June of each year of your intention to renew for the following year – this renewal must include a transcript indicating you have maintained a 3.25 GPA and a brief written summary of your college experience.
Financial Aid Considerations

Our board does not want this award to subtract from any financial aid or scholarships you may receive from your college. We urge you to speak with your financial aid department to determine if a private scholarship such as this one will simply mean less aid dollars from your school. If this scholarship means less dollars in aid from your school, we may elect to either withdraw our scholarship offer OR work with you to pay for educational needs such as housing, books or technology items. If you are receiving a “full ride” scholarship from your college, our board will not approve the award of this scholarship to you.

Stumptown Scholars Academic Scholarship Evaluation & Scoring

For Students Consideration in Applying (100 possible points):

Essay
0 - 35 Points

Reviewers will consider how well the essay is organized and written. Authenticity, originality, creativity, and development of specific details are all important elements of your essay.

TIPS:

  • Check spelling, grammar
  • Tell a compelling story
  • Have a parent or mentor edit your essay
Academics
0 - 25 Points

Points awarded based on the GPA/grades maintained during your 3 1/2 years of high school. Reviewers will consider the rigor of courses taken by each student.

TIPS:

  • If your grades were impacted by illness or other issues for a semester – explain in the optional academic essay on the application
Financial Need
0 - 25 Points

Points awarded based on the expressed financial need of the student and their family resources.

TIPS:

  • Any siblings also going to college?
  • Parent/Caregiver ability to assist?
  • Have you contributed to saving for college through work?
  • Be specific in describing your need
Community/School Leadership & Paid Work
0 - 15 Points

This category includes either/or in-school or community-based leadership, activities & paid work experience. Points awarded based on specific examples of leadership within your activities.

TIPS:

  • Do not simply list all of your activities
  • Focus on 1 or 2 leadership roles
  • Provide detailed examples of your leadership
Deadline: 

Completed applications (including transcripts) must be uploaded to our website by Thursday, April 2, 2026, 11:59 PM.
NO EXCEPTIONS. WE WILL NOT CONSIDER LATE ENTRIES.

Please note, Stumptown Scholars may occasionally award additional, smaller scholarships to highly qualified applicants. In the past these additional awards have ranged from $1000 to $2000. Any awards beyond the $10,000 scholarship will be determined at the discretion of the Stumptown Scholars Board of Directors.  

Stumptown Scholars is supported by donations from community members and small businesses in Portland. We welcome applications from students of all ethnic, racial, and economic backgrounds. And we welcome applications from students of all genders, gender identities and gender orientations.

Apply Now