Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible?
To qualify, you must:
- currently live or work in the Peninsula School District 401
- have had a minimum interruption in your education of at least one year
- intend 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).
Do I have to show financial need?
You do not have to demonstrate financial need to apply, however financial need will be used as a criterion during the scholarship selection process to select among equally qualified candidates.
What are the application requirements?
Application requirements are found on the Application Page
What is the application deadline?
March 31, 2026
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.
When will I find out if I received the scholarship award?
You will notified by June 1st 2026.
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.
Does attending an out of state (not in Washington state) school/ university qualify?
Yes.
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.
My official transcripts are paper only. Where do I have them sent to?
Minerva Scholarship Fund P.O. Box 2705, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
How many students have been awarded this scholarship?
To date we have awarded over 200 scholarships.
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.
Does attending a technical school or community college qualify?
Yes. You may attend any accredited institution or school.
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.
Is every application considered?
All complete applications along with supporting materials received by the deadline from eligible applicants will be considered.
I don't live in Peninsula School District 401, but I work there. Does that make me eligible?
Yes.
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.
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.