Partner Agency Scholarship Program Application Guide

At Step Onward Foundation, we believe that every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive with stability. Through our partnerships with trusted nonprofit and social service agencies, we see the courage, determination, and resilience of students working to build a future beyond hardship.

The Partner Agency Scholarship Program honors those stories. For the 2026–2027 academic year, Step Onward will award three to five scholarships to students nominated and supported by our partnering organizations. and students can count on.

Here is what you need to know if you’re interested in applying for a scholarship or referring a potential recipient.

Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Step Onward Foundation Scholarship Program, prospective recipients must:

  • Be enrolled for the 2026–2027 academic year
  • Be an active participant of a Step Onward Foundation partner agency
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Be recommended by a caseworker or program manager
  • Submit all required materials

Application Components

Applicants must submit the following:

  1. Recommendation from a caseworker or program manager 
  2. Online application form
  3. Personal essay (up to 750 words)
  4. Video introduction (up to three minutes)
  5. Two personal letters of recommendation


To apply, please have your caseworker or program manager reach out to us to start the process of submitting a recommendation.

Submission Checklist

  • Application submitted
  • Essay uploaded
  • Video link submitted
  • Caseworker recommendation received
  • Two personal recommendation letters received

Scholarship Timeline

Announcement: December 2025–January 2026
Applications Open: January 15, 2026
Final Deadline: March 15, 2026
Review: March 16–April 5, 2026
Awards Announced: Early–Mid April 2026
Public Recognition: April 26, 2026
Disbursement: July–August 2026

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