Ron Brown Scholar Program

The Ron Brown Scholar Program is a prestigious scholarship initiative that honors the legacy of Ronald H. Brown, the first African American Secretary of Commerce. Established to support academically gifted and community-oriented African American high school seniors, the program aims to foster leadership and public service.

🎓 Scholarship Overview

  • Award Amount: $10,000 per year for four years, totaling $40,000.

  • Renewability: The scholarship is renewable annually, contingent upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

  • Usage: Funds can be applied toward tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other college-related expenses at an accredited four-year institution in the U.S.

  • Eligibility:

    • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

    • Must be a current high school senior at the time of application.

    • Must identify as Black or African American.

    • Must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, community service involvement, and financial need.

    • Current college students are not eligible to apply.

🗓️ Application Deadlines

  • Early Applicant Deadline: November 1

    • Applicants who meet this deadline will be considered for the Ron Brown Scholar Program and may have their information forwarded to select additional scholarship providers.

  • Final Postmarked Deadline: January 9

    • All application materials must be postmarked by this date to be considered for the Ron Brown Scholar Program.

Applications must be submitted in a single packet; incomplete, emailed, or faxed applications will not be considered.

📄 Application Components

Applicants must submit the following materials:

  • Completed Application Form: Available on the Ron Brown Scholar Program website.

  • Official High School Transcript: Must be sealed and signed by the school.

  • Essays: Two essays responding to specific prompts provided in the application.

  • Letters of Recommendation: Two letters from teachers, counselors, or other adults who can speak to the applicant's character and achievements.

  • Standardized Test Scores: While not required, submitting SAT or ACT scores can strengthen the application.

📌 Selection Process Timeline

  • November 1: Early application deadline.

  • January 9: Final application deadline.

  • February: Applications are reviewed by program staff.

  • Mid-February: Semi-finalists are notified.

  • Early March: Finalists are invited to participate in a weekend selection process in Washington, D.C., at the expense of the Ron Brown Scholar Program.

  • April 1: Winners are notified.

  • Late April/Early May: Winners' names are posted on the Ron Brown Scholar Program website. 

🔗 Application Portal

To apply or learn more about the Ron Brown Scholar Program, visit the official application portal: https://ronbrown.org/section/apply/rbsp-application

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