1) How do I qualify?

To qualify, you must:

• document that you currently live or work in the Peninsula School District 401

• have had a minimum interruption in your education of at least one year and are intending to return to complete a degree or certification

• be returning to school to complete a vocational program, two -year degree from a community college or a four-year graduate degree (you may be full-time or part-time, presently attending or enrolled in an accredited educational institution).

• have a demonstrated the need of financial assistance to complete education

• have a plan of action and timeline for completion of the educational program

• provide letters of recommendation from three individuals, two of the letter authors must be familiar with your academic competence.

• this application must be completed by March 31st to qualify.

2) What education programs does Minerva fund?

Recipients of academic support have pursued certificates and degrees in areas as diverse as environmental science, criminal justice, gerontology, truck driving, social work and screenwriting. Many women concentrate on advanced degrees in medical fields, from radiology to physical therapy. Previous scholarship award recipients are working as teachers, administrators, musicians, paralegals and nurses.

3) When will I find out if I received the scholarship award?

You will notified by May 15 2024.

4) Will there be an interview?

No interview will take place. Close attention will be paid to the letters of recommendation and the completed application. Recipients of scholarship awards will be asked to attend an event in August in Gig Harbor with our Board of Directors and other friends of Minerva.

5) Does attending an out of state (not in Washington state) school/ university qualify?

Yes.

6) Are the funds payable to me or the educational institution?

The funds are payable to the financial aid office of the school where you are enrolled.

7) Where do I send my application?

Address it to the Minerva Scholarship Committee, P. O. Box 2705, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

8) How many students have been awarded this scholarship?

To date we have awarded over 200 scholarships.

9) What if I just moved into the Gig Harbor/Peninsula School District — can I qualify?

Yes. You must be currently living or working in the boundaries of the Peninsula School District 401.

10) Does attending a technical school or community college qualify?

Yes. You may attend any accredited institution or school.

11) Do I need to send my high school transcripts?

High school transcripts are required from applicants who have been out of high school less than two years or who have fewer than 10 college level credits.

12) Is every application considered?

Yes, IF you have completed all sections of the Scholarship Application Form, have provided sealed grade transcripts for high school and all past and current college or vocational school courses, and have arranged for three letters of recommendation from people who know your educational background and personal circumstances. These recommendations should be mailed directly to the Scholarship Committee by your references. Incomplete applications are not considered.

13) Is there a time limit to use the funds from an award?

The awards may be used until December 31st of the following year. For example, if you were given a scholarship in 2021, you have until December 31, 2022. Any unused funds will be returned to the Minerva Fund.

14) When was the fund established?

The Minerva Scholarship Fund was established in 1991 by AAUW-Gig Harbor (American Association of University Women) members to encourage tax-deductible contributions in support of scholarship for women returning to school.

15) Why is the fund named “Minerva”?

Minerva is the Roman goddess of wisdom, commerce, art and trade. Our founders felt that this was an appropriate name for our scholars.