Our Scholarships for Pacific Islander Students can help you pursue an advanced degree at a prestigious college or university in the United States, if you’re a Pacific Islander student.
Today, many jobs require postsecondary education, especially in a growing economy. Whether or not people pursue higher education is heavily influenced by financial factors, including financial aid. A student’s college costs can also influence what institution he or she attends and how they experience college.
Students can fund their education by securing financial aid, such as scholarships and grants. Yet many AAPI students struggle to find financial support due to inadequate information and difficulty completing the FAFSA. 70% of Asian American and Pacific Islander students surveyed by the Asian American and Pacific Islander Research Coalition (ARC) reported financial concerns limited their college choices.
Financial Challenges for Asian American and Pacific Islander Students
According to the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC), “In 2018, 10.1% of Asian Americans lived in poverty, compared to 8.1% of white, non-Hispanic Americans.” Asian Americans also had a 3.3% unemployment rate in 2020, lower than the national average of 4.1%. For those who do not hold a degree, AAPI individuals make less than white Americans on average.
According to the ARC, most AAPI students surveyed did not receive enough information about financial aid options. In addition, 60% of AAPI students found the FAFSA too difficult to complete. Increasing financial literacy can help close the racial wealth gap. For example, there is a Pell Grant program that distributes nearly $30 billion each year to about 7 million students. However, some students do not know what a grant is or if they are eligible to apply.
List of Top Scholarships for Pacific Islander Students
Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship
Amount: $30,000
Provider: Jackie Robinson Foundation
Eligibility Requirements:
- Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American
- Plan to attend a four-year college within the United States or affiliated with a United States-based college or university
- Graduating high school senior
- Minimum SAT score of 1000 or ACT score of 21
Application Requirements: Letter of Recommendation, Headshot, SAT and/or ACT Scores, EssayThe Jackie Robinson Foundation offers this scholarship opportunity to make college education a reality for students from underrepresented groups — just as Jackie Robinson helped make baseball accessible to people of color. The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship awards up to $30,000 to outstanding students who demonstrate financial need, leadership skills, and academic achievement. Besides receiving financial aid, scholarship recipients are matched with mentors and invited to a leadership conference in New York City.
The Gates Scholarship
Amount: Full cost of attendance
Provider: The Gates Scholarship
Eligibility Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
- Asian American, Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American
- Plan to enroll full-time, in a four-year degree program
- Graduating high school senior
- Pell Grant eligible
Transcript, completed FAFSA, financial aid award letter, proof of acceptance, resume, headshot are all required.
Students with great leadership skills, personal success skills, and an exceptional high school academic record are recognized with the Gates Scholarship. Tuition, room, board, books, and transportation are all covered by the scholarship.
AANAPISI Scholarship
Amount: Up to $5,000
Provider: Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund
Eligibility Requirements:
- Asian American and/or Pacific Islander
- Enrolled full-time in an undergraduate program at an APIA Scholars AANAPISI Partner Institutions
FAFSA must be completed in order to apply
AANAPISI Scholarships support Asian and Pacific Islanders in their pursuit of undergraduate degrees. This award is open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements, but the selection committee will prioritize students from lower-income communities who are first-generation college students. Additionally, this group prefers awarding students who have demonstrated a passion for community service, leadership skills, and academic excellence.
EPP/MSI Undergraduate Scholarship Program
Amount: Up to $45,000
Provider: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Eligibility Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale
- Attending a Minority-Serving Institution
- Enrolled as a full-time 2nd-year student in a four-year academic program; or transferring from a two-year to a four-year institution; or a 3rd-year student in a five-year program
- Majoring in a STEM field related to/in support of NOAA’s mission
Application Requirements: Transcript, 2 Letters of Recommendation, Essay
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration researches our environment to preserve it for future generations. NOAA invests in students from Minority-Serving Institutions who are interested in science and climate work through the EPP/MSI Undergraduate Scholarship Program. Don’t miss out on this scholarship if you’re passionate about saving our oceans and their species from extinction. In addition to the financial support, this program includes a paid summer internship and a housing allowance!
Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship
Amount: $10,000
Provider: Government Finance Officer Association
Eligibility Requirements:
- Asian American, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, and/or Native American
- Majoring in public administration, accounting, finance, political science, economics, or business administration
Application Requirements: Letter of Recommendation
One student from an underrepresented ethnic group is awarded the Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship each year. This scholarship was endowed through the generosity of the Government Finance Officer Association to encourage students seeking a career in the public financial sector, either at the state or local levels. Both undergraduate and graduate students can apply, as well as part-time and full-time students.
How to win scholarships for Pacific Islanders
Here are tips on how to win scholarships:
1. Look for local sources first. There are many scholarships and grants available in the Pacific Islands, so ask your local government or college advisors about specific programs. Additionally, local sources can provide information on scholarships offered by outside organizations.
2. Find educational websites that are specific to Pacific Islands. Shcolaroo is one of several websites that help Pacific Islanders find scholarships and grants for college. Many of these websites provide information about specific organizations that can provide financial assistance to Pacific Island scholars.
3. Search for scholarships specifically for Pacific Islanders. Applying for scholarships based on your race or ethnicity is a great way to win scholarships. Scholarships are available from Pacific Island-based organizations that can provide financial assistance to scholars.
4. Engage in different community outreach programs, especially those geared toward Pacific Islander unity. Taking part in such programs will allow you to network with other businesses, individuals, and organizations concerned with the development of Pacific islander communities. By creating a network of support in your community, it will be easier for you to find scholarships to help you study.
5. For applications requiring an essay, personal letter, or video. Participating in your Pacific Islander community also shows your leadership, ability to take initiative, and commitment to the community.
Also Read scholarships for Native Hawaiian students
FAQs.
1. What are Pacific Islander Scholarships?
Pacific Islanders are born on one of the many Pacific Ocean islands, representing more than 50 diverse geographic backgrounds. Pacific Islanders make up 0.05% of Americans. Pacific Islander Scholarships are scholarships designed specifically for Pacific Islanders.
2. How can I find scholarships specifically for Pacific Islander Students?
Scholarships for Pacific Islander Students can be found in various places. Scholarship databases are available online, and you can also visit financial aid offices. Join Pacific Islander community organizations. Scholarships may be available for deserving students. There are many different types of scholarships on Bold.org, where you can find the scholarship you want.
Conclusion
Scholarships for Pacific Islander students open the doors to higher education and break down financial barriers. Scholarships facilitate access to learning, but they also promote diversity and inclusivity within colleges and universities.
