Is there a deadline for submitting my application?
Applications should be submitted as early as possible, but no later than 2 months before the start date of the program to be attended. SLF cannot guarantee that applications received after that period will be reviewed in time for funds to be awarded by the desired date.
However, we have no cutoff date. We accept applications at any time. Keep in mind that the fall semester is the busiest time of year. Applications will be handled in the order in which they are received in complete form.
How much is the scholarship?
We have no set dollar amount. Each application is reviewed and evaluated on an individual basis. Our first priority awards are for tuition, books and fees for undergraduate or basic training. Our next priority is to assist in reducing indirect financial barriers to education (for example, childcare, transportation, etc.).
Our smallest award has been about $250. The average award is around $2,000.
Do I have to go to a college?
The Foundation will consider programs at accredited institutions. This could be a 2 or 4-year college, a technical institute, training school, etc. Programs that have received funding include: Nursing, Teaching, Computer Technology, Computer Training, Law Enforcement, Theology, Equipment Handling, Physical Therapist, Social Work, Counseling, Hairdressing, Landscape Design, Journalism, Medical Billing, Massage Therapist.
How is the scholarship paid?
Scholarship Awards for tuition, books and fees are paid directly to the educational institution. Charitable Adjunct Assistance Awards, for reducing financial barriers to education, are paid to the sponsoring agency on behalf of the recipient. We cannot make any awards payable to individuals. Scholarships are paid on a by-semester/term/session basis.
May I copy the application?
Yes. You may make copies as needed.
I have an old application. May I use it?
Yes. We will be happy to send you a new application if you like, but you if you have an old application, you may use it.
I can't find a sponsor. Can the SLF provide me with one?
It is the responsibility of the applicant to identify a nonprofit, domestic violence victim services provider willing to sponsor her for this program. You must have worked with the sponsor for at least 6 months.
Why do I need a sponsor?
We have found that many of our most successful scholarship recipients have a strong relationship with their sponsor. The sponsor can provide the necessary ongoing support, encouragement and advocacy to help you meet your educational and economic goals.
What does the sponsor have to do?
First, we ask all sponsors to help us in the selection of suitable candidates.
Second, we ask that the sponsor make a commitment to assist the scholar by providing ongoing support. We believe that the unique needs of a woman recovering from domestic violence are often best met by an agency with experience in that field.
Third, from time to time, we make awards that include funds for necessary expenses that are beyond tuition, books and fees. (Scholarship Awards for tuition, books and fees are paid directly to the school.) These Charitable Adjunct Assistance Awards are paid to the sponsoring agency for administration and distribution. We ask that the sponsor handle the funds in a way that they can track them. This can be done by setting up a line item in their accounting system. We leave the record-keeping and disbursement of funds to be worked out between the sponsoring agency and the scholarship recipient. When we provide funds through a sponsor, we ask that they tell us, at the end of each academic term, how the funds were disbursed.
We may ask sponsors to help us evaluate the Women's Independence Scholarship Program. This is a new, young program, and we are looking to make this the best it can be. We would like to be able to contact the sponsoring agencies and ask for their input on the program.
I want to go to school in another city/state. Will the Foundation help with my relocation costs?
Generally, we cannot assist with moving expenses. Keep in mind, this is a scholarship program primarily intended to assist with tuition, books and fees. Secondarily, funds are made available to assist in reducing financial barriers to education (such as childcare and transportation). We cannot assist with old credit card debt, legal fees, relocation expenses, medical bills, etc.
Why are applications denied for scholarships?
Most often, applications are declined for one of the following reasons:
- The applicant is not a direct survivor of domestic (partner abuse) violence.
- The applicant has not demonstrated critical financial need.
- The chosen course of study is not accredited, or is not job-training related.
- The applicant is outside the United States .
- The application is incomplete.
I've filled out my part of the application, but my sponsor is still working on their section. Can I submit my section separately?
Yes, you may submit your section with a note explaining that your sponsor will send in the rest of the packet separately. However, keep in mind that we cannot review incomplete applications. We will hold your section, awaiting the remainder of the application. We understand that reference letters come in separately; however, they must all be received to make the application complete.
The application asks for tax returns. I haven't filed taxes in the past two years. What do I do?
If you have not filed taxes, please indicate that on your application above the signature line on page 6.
I don't know anyone who can be a reference. Why do I need references?
Every applicant is required to supply three references. These references help us to get a clearer picture of each applicant; her goals, strengths and abilities. We recommend that you carefully select those individuals you ask to provide your references. Only one of these letters may be from a personal friend or family member, and your sponsor may not be a reference. Others you might consider asking for a letter of reference include: an employer, a counselor or case manager you have worked with, a teacher, or anyone who knows you well and can comment on your abilities, desire and determination to complete your training or educational goals.
This application is really long. Will I have to fill one out every term?
No. For renewals, we have a one-page form.
Other questions? Let us know if you have any other questions.
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