Community Assistance Grant Scholarship

Overview

The Community Assistance Grant (CAG) Scholarship is a competitive award designed to assist students who demonstrate a strong commitment to community service, leadership, and academic excellence. Funded by a coalition of local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies, the grant provides up to $5,000 per academic year to eligible undergraduate and graduate students.

The purpose of the CAG Scholarship is threefold:

• Reduce financial barriers that prevent talented students from completing higher education.
• Encourage active participation in community projects and civic engagement.
• Foster a network of scholars who become future leaders in their regions.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following conditions:

• Academic standing: Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Enrollment status: Fulltime enrollment in an accredited college or university (undergraduate or graduate).
• Community involvement: Documented participation in at least 30 hours of volunteer service per semester.
• Residency: Must be a legal resident of the state in which the scholarship is offered.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or individuals with eligible visa status.

Students who have previously received a CAG Scholarship may reapply, provided they maintain eligibility and demonstrate continued community impact.

Application Process

The application is a multistep process that can be completed online:

1. Create an account: Register on the CAG portal using a valid email address.
2. Complete the personal profile: Fill out basic demographic information, academic details, and contact data.
3. Write the essay: Respond to the prompt How has community service shaped your academic and career goals? (800word limit).
4. Upload supporting documents: Transcripts, proof of community service, recommendation letters, and a rsum.
5. Pay the application fee: A nonrefundable fee of $25 (waivers available for lowincome applicants).
6. Submit: Review all entries, confirm accuracy, and click Submit Application.

Required Documents

Each document must be uploaded in PDF or highresolution JPG format, not exceeding 5 MB per file.

• Official transcript: From your current institution, showing GPA and credit hours.
• Proof of community service: Signed letter from a supervisor, volunteer log, or certificates.
• Two recommendation letters: One academic (professor or advisor) and one communitybased (nonprofit leader, employer, or mentor).
• Rsum/CV: Highlighting education, work experience, volunteer activities, and achievements.
• Financial need statement (optional): For applicants requesting a fee waiver or additional consideration.

Key Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I am a transfer student?

Yes. Transfer students are eligible as long as they meet the GPA requirement and are enrolled fulltime at their new institution.

What if I have a gap year before college?

Applicants with a gap year may still apply provided they have documented community service during that period and meet the GPA criteria once enrolled.

How is the scholarship amount determined?

The selection committee reviews academic merit, depth of community involvement, and quality of the essay. Awards range from $1,000 to $5,000, with the highest amounts reserved for candidates showing exceptional leadership and impact.

Do I have to maintain a certain GPA after receiving the grant?

Yes. Scholars must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 each semester to retain funding for the subsequent academic year.

Is there a limit to how many times I can receive the grant?

The scholarship may be renewed for up to three consecutive academic years, provided the recipient continues to meet eligibility requirements.