Overview
The Kan be Foundation Scholarship is a competitive award that supports undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service. Established in 1998, the foundations mission is to empower talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue higher education and become changemakers in their fields.
Each year the foundation allocates funds to a select group of scholars. The scholarship covers tuition, books, and in many cases, a modest living stipend. In addition to financial support, scholars gain access to a network of alumni, mentorship opportunities, and professional development workshops designed to maximise their academic and career success.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Kanbe Foundation Scholarship, applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be enrolled in an accredited college, university or graduate program (fulltime or parttime) in any discipline.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Demonstrate financial need as measured by the FAFSA (for U.S. applicants) or an equivalent assessment for international students.
- Exhibit leadership experience through clubs, student government, volunteer work, or professional activities.
- Submit a personal essay (max 1,000 words) outlining academic goals, career aspirations, and how the scholarship will help achieve them.
- Provide two letters of recommendationpreferably one academic and one professional or communitybased.
The scholarship is open to students of all nationalities. However, for nonU.S. applicants, the foundation requires proof of enrollment in an institution officially recognised by the host countrys education ministry.
Benefits of the Scholarship
Recipients enjoy a comprehensive package that includes:
- Tuition Assistance: Up to full coverage of tuition and mandatory fees for the duration of the program.
- Living Stipend: A monthly allowance ranging from $500$1,000 (adjusted for costofliving differences).
- Books & Supplies: An annual credit of $500 for textbooks, software, and supplies.
- Mentorship Program: Pairing with a Kanbe alumni mentor who provides guidance on academic choices, internships, and career planning.
- Professional Development: Free entry to webinars, conferences, and workshops on topics such as research methods, public speaking, and entrepreneurship.
- Alumni Network: Lifetime membership in a global community of past scholars and donors.
Note: Scholars are expected to maintain their GPA and submit an annual progress report to remain eligible for continued funding.
Application Process
The application cycle runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. Follow these steps to submit a complete application:
- Create an account on the Kanbe Foundation portal.
- Complete the online personal information form.
- Upload official transcripts and, if applicable, a copy of your financialneed assessment.
- Submit the personal essay (max 1,000 words) and answer the supplemental shortanswer prompts.
- Enter the contact details of two recommenders; the system will email them a secure link to upload their letters.
- Pay the nonrefundable processing fee of $30 (waivers are available for applicants with documented financial hardship).
- Review all entries and click Submit. You will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number.
After the deadline, the selection committee reviews applications in two stages: a preliminary screening for eligibility, followed by a detailed evaluation of academic merit, leadership, and essay quality. Finalists are invited for a brief virtual interview.
Successful candidates are notified by June 15. Awards are disbursed directly to the institutions financial office at the beginning of each academic term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reapply if Im not selected?
Yes. Applicants may submit a new application in subsequent years as long as they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
Is the scholarship renewable?
Funding is renewable each year provided the scholar maintains a GPA of 3.5 or higher and submits a satisfactory annual progress report.
Do I have to study in a specific field?
No. The scholarship is disciplineagnostic; however, applicants must demonstrate how their chosen field aligns with the foundations mission of societal impact.
What if I receive another scholarship?
Kanbe Foundation allows recipients to combine awards, but the total financial assistance cannot exceed the total cost of attendance. Any excess must be returned to the foundation.
How can I contact the foundation for assistance?
For general inquiries, email info@kanbefoundation.org. For applicationspecific questions, use the Help button on the portal.
