LGBT Education & Support Services Program’s
Scholarship Resource Guide
The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity, affirmative-action institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act. This publication will be made available in accessible formats upon request. Direct related inquiries to the Office of Affirmative Action and
Equal Opportunity, 474 Oregon Hall, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403; telephone (541) 346-3123; TDD (541) 346-08
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Scholarship Application Tips
1. Meet all application deadlines.
Use a calendar, make a schedule, and stick to it. If you miss a deadline, even by just one day, you may not be
considered.
2. Gather application materials early.
Give yourself plenty of time to complete each step. Applications that have been rushed look sloppy, and
incomplete applications probably won’t be accepted.
3. Don’t ignore small awards.
Small awards can add up. Plus, the larger the award, the more competition you’ll face.
4. Request letters of recommendation early.
Some applications require letters of recommendation. Think carefully about who should write these letters
and choose people who can speak to your strengths and ability to overcome your weaknesses (letters from
family members are generally a no-no). Give your recommenders no less than two weeks notice so they
have time to write the letter. Be prepared to provide them with additional information about yourself or the
scholarship.
5. Write a great essay.
Think carefully about the question being asked and use this opportunity to tell the selection committee
things about you that might not be shown elsewhere in the application. Get help with editing for grammar
and spelling, but do your own writing—the committee wants to hear from you personally. Current UO
students can work with the UO Writing Lab on scholarship essays and other projects.
6. Sing your own praises.
Applications will often ask you to tell them what you do with your time. As uncomfortable as this may feel,
this is one time in your life when it’s necessary to brag. Tell them about recognition and awards you’ve
received. Emphasize activities that show your talents and passions, especially things that demonstrate your
ability to lead, take initiative, persist through adversity, and care for your community. Don’t underestimate
yourself—employment and family responsibilities can say a lot in your favor as well.
7. Try, try again.
Keep trying even if you don’t win a scholarship right away. Save copies of every application that you
complete so you don’t have to start from scratch every time.
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Successful Scholarship Checklist
Be prepared for each application by using a checklist to manage all deadlines,
requirements and documentation. Store a copy of each checklist and application to
guide future applications.
Scholarship name: _______________________________
Due Date: ______________________________________
Cover letter
My current contact information is accurate and I have included an email
address and phone number.
I have reviewed the document for any errors, style, spelling and grammar.
The application
I have looked at the scholarship online to verify the criteria and
qualifications.
Every section has been accurately completed.
I provided all essential documentation and supplemental information.
The essay
I answered the questions clearly.
My essay flows smoothly and is complete.
Essay has been reviewed for any errors, style, spelling and grammar by a third party.
Letters of recommendation (If required)
Requested from ____________________ on ___________________. Received on ______________.
Requested from ____________________ on ___________________. Received on ______________.
Requested from ____________________ on ___________________. Received on ______________.
Supporting documentation (If required)
Financial aid award letter
Students aid report or FAFSA
Academic Transcript
Resume
Other: _______________________________________
Application complete
Date mailed: ________________________
Heard back from _____________________ on ________________________
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John R. Moore Scholarship:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
Up to three student scholarships are selected by a committee consisting of Standing Committee representatives
and previous scholarship recipients and presented to students who excel in their contribution to the lesbian,
gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community at the University of Oregon. Factors for selection may
include leadership and service in the university LGBTQ community, financial need, study and research as it
relates to LGBTQ issues, and/or commitment to supporting the progress of LGBTQ civil rights movement.
Supplemental materials required.
http://lgbt.uoregon.edu/GetSupport/Scholarships.aspx
RJ Hoyman Scholarships:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
These scholarships are given to students who excel in their contribution to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender community. Selection is based on the following criteria: New or returning undergraduate students
admitted to and scheduled for enrollment at the University of Oregon or Lane Community College students who
have demonstrated a commitment through community service and advocacy groups, to the lesbian, gay,
bisexual, and transgender communities within the State of Oregon; academic merit or achievement, as
determined by the scholarship selection committee; special consideration shall be given to first-year freshmen
and/or transfer students who are otherwise eligible to receive the scholarship based on the above criteria.
Additionally, special consideration may be given to otherwise eligible students who are first generation college
students (first in their family to attend college) and/or other students who promote an educational interest in
attaining a diverse student population. Supplemental materials required.
http://lgbt.uoregon.edu/GetSupport/Scholarships.aspx
http://www.lanecc.edu/foundation/foundation-scholarship-opportunities
The Diversity Excellence Scholarship:
Deadline: January 15, 2015
The Diversity Excellence Scholarship (DES) recognizes the academic achievement and potential of students who,
through sharing their varied cultural perspectives, will enhance the education of all UO students and the
excellence of the university. The University of Oregon offers these tuition-remission scholarships as part of our
diversity mission.
http://lgbt.uoregon.edu/GetSupport/Scholarships.aspx
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Arts & Advocacy in the Lesbian Community Award:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
This scholarship is given to students who excel in their contributions to the lesbian community and are involved
in an academic program related to art or music. Supplemental materials required.
http://lgbt.uoregon.edu/GetSupport/Scholarships.aspx
Bruce M. Abrams Award:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
Bruce M. Abrams Award in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Studies. The winning undergraduate project, which may be
from any discipline, is honored with a $500 prize.
http://lgbt.uoregon.edu/GetSupport/Scholarships.aspx
Jessica Dolin Memorial Scholarship:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
Leigh and Leslie Dolin established the Jessica Dolin Memorial Scholarship in 2014 to honor their Daughter Jessica
who passed away May 14, 2003. The scholarship is intended for residents of Oregon or Clark County, WA who
are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender student or a student actively involved in an LGBT rights organization.
http://www.equityfoundation.org/scholarships
The Jim McBroom and John H. Weston Scholarship:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
The Jim McBroom and John H. Weston Scholarship was created in 2010 through a bequest from Jim McBroom.
The scholarship is funded by the Jim McBroom and John H. Weston Charitable Fund of The Oregon Community
Foundation. The scholarship is intended for gay and lesbian students in or from Oregon who are attending four
year colleges, preferably but not exclusively for those studying fine arts and humanities. The deadline for the
2014-2015 school year is July 30, 2014.
http://www.equityfoundation.org/scholarships
The PFLAG National Scholarship Program:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
The PFLAG National Scholarship program is a critical component of our Cultivating Respect: Safe Schools for All
Program, rewarding hard work and leadership in the next generation. It is an opportunity to reach out to young
people and acknowledge their role in building our community. PFLAG’s local and national scholarships are one of
the many ways PFLAG supports LGBT and ally youth.
http://community.pflag.org/scholarship
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Matthew Shepard Memorial Scholarship:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
In October of 1998 the world was shocked at the malicious hate crime that occurred against the young college
student from Wyoming. Since 1999, with the support of the Shepard family, the LEAGUE Foundation has
honored Matthew's memory by awarding at least one scholarship to a student who had demonstrated
leadership in promoting diversity and understanding in the community.
https://www.leaguefoundation.org/apply/index.cfm
Kathy Spadoni Memorial Scholarship:
* Deadline: January 16th 2015
for graduating high school seniors entering a bachelor’s degree program who have demonstrated leadership
skills and have a passion for making positive social change.
http://www.pridefoundation.org/what-we-do/scholarships/scholarship-funds/
Ric Ulrich and Chuck Pischke Scholarship:
* Deadline: January 16th 2015
The Ric Ulrich and Chuck Pischke Scholarship for candidates intending studies that involve visual arts and design.
http://www.pridefoundation.org/what-we-do/scholarships/scholarship-funds/
Phil Sullivan Scholarship:
* Deadline: January 16th 2015
For students under the age of 21 who demonstrate significant financial need, with preference to those that have
been homeless.
http://www.pridefoundation.org/what-we-do/scholarships/scholarship-funds/
Gregori Jakovina Endowment Scholarship:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
The Gregori Jakovina Endowment Scholarship was founded in May 2007 by Gregori Jakovina and Larry
McDonald to encourage and facilitate post-secondary education in the arts for people who are lesbian, gay,
bisexual or transgender (LGBT). The Gregori Jakovina Endowment Scholarship is administered through Equity
Foundation.
http://www.pridefoundation.org/what-we-do/scholarships/scholarship-funds/
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The Gamma Mu Foundation Scholarship:
Deadline: March 31st 2015
The Gamma Mu Foundation Scholarship program focuses on the critical needs of gay men living in, or having
come from rural areas, who wish to pursue higher educational opportunities and professional career growth.
The program provides funding for individuals who wish to enter and/or complete a course of study at the
university level, or those who seek training and education in a vocational course of study. The program seeks to
increase the number of gay men who are actively contributing to the betterment of their communities.
http://www.gammamufoundation.org/grant_scholarships/scholarships.asp
Portland Latino Gay Pride Scholarship:
Deadline: TBA 2015/2016
Established in 2012 by the Board of Directors of Portland Latino Gay Pride, this scholarship offers funds to
students who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender (LBGT), or are the children of LGBT parents, who reside in
Oregon or Clark County Washington, and need financial assistance to attain their post-secondary educational
goals with preference placed on Latino/a candidates.
http://www.equityfoundation.org/funding-programs/scholarships/
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Applying for Financial Aid:
To apply for grants, loans, work-study, and some scholarships, complete the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA) at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/
The FAFSA should be completed in the January prior to enrollment at the University of Oregon each year. The
school code for the University of Oregon is 003223.
We also recommend searching and applying for scholarships.
Priority Deadline
The University of Oregon's priority deadline for submitting the FAFSA is March 1.
Some types of funding are limited, so we recommend submitting your FAFSA as early as possible after January
1. If you have not yet completed your tax forms, the FAFSA allows you to use projected figures.
If you submit the FAFSA after March 1, you will still be eligible for aid but will not be considered for some funds.
After You Apply
After you successfully complete the FAFSA, the UO will send you a financial aid award letter.
Then you will need to complete the financial aid checklist.
Any questions? Please contact us:
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Education & Support Services Program
164 Oregon Hall
1278 University of Oregon
Eugene, OR 97403-1278
program@uoregon.edu
541-346-3216
Financial Aid & Scholarships
260 Oregon Hall
1278 University of Oregon
Eugene, OR 97403-1278
800-760-6953
541-346-3221
541-346-1175 (fax)
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