How to Apply
Steps to apply
STEP 1
Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or equivalent.*
STEP 2
Find your Ford Family scholarship program and apply starting December 1.
STEP 3
Complete your application by March 1, 2027.
*Equivalent for undocumented students includes the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA).
Application checklist
Here are some materials you can prepare before starting a Ford Family scholarship application:
- Financial information – a completed financial aid application (FAFSA, ORSAA or CADAA) is required to apply for our scholarships
- Most current transcripts – unofficial are accepted
- High school students – provide the most recent transcript with coursework at least through junior year
- Transfer students, adults and/or parents – provide most recent transcript through at least December if currently enrolled; provide all transcripts for colleges attended in the last 10 years
- College plans – let us know which college you will attend if awarded a Ford Family scholarship
- Activities – focus on school activities, volunteer/family engagement, and/or paid work over the past four years
- Personal statements – provide responses to the following three questions:
- 1. Describe a time when you had a challenging experience or didn’t know what to do. How did you approach the situation and what did you learn about yourself? (150 words)
- 2. What have you done for your family or community that you care about the most and why? Provide a specific example. (150 words)
- 3. Think of the place(s) you grew up or consider home. What lessons have you learned living there and how have they shaped who you are today? (150 words)
- Family/household information – help us understand your living situation
Application help guide
Use this guide to find the help you need while working on the Ford Family scholarship application.
Information for undocumented students
Undocumented students in Oregon and Siskiyou County, California who meet certain qualifications are eligible to apply for our scholarships.
Frequently asked questions
When does the application open?
The scholarship application opens December 1 and closes March 1, 2027.
Can I apply to more than one program?
No. Each student may submit only one scholarship application. Use our Scholarship guide to identify the program that best fits your situation and contact us if you still have questions.
When is the scholarship application deadline?
The scholarship application deadline is March 1, 2027, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Submit your completed application by that time; late applications will not be considered.
Application tips
- Let your experience and potential shine in your application. Like a resume, this is an opportunity to share your accomplishments and describe how you’re making a difference in the world.
- Proofread your materials carefully. Complete all parts of the application and review your application before submitting, checking for typos and avoiding abbreviations or slang.
- Celebrate what makes you unique. Use the Activities and Personal Statements to showcase who you are and what you care about.
- Double check that you’ve submitted the correct transcript(s). If your transcripts are incorrect, your application will be invalid.
- Submit your FAFSA (or equivalent). Once your financial aid application has been processed, upload the Submission Summary which will display the Student Aid Index (SAI) to the scholarship application by or before the scholarship deadline.
- Apply early. This allows us to help you — and relieves your stress — if there are problems with your application.
Advisor resources
Advisors, teachers and mentors — we’ve gathered a selection of materials and resources that can be helpful when advising students on pursuing a
Ford Family scholarship.
Please email us to request printed materials.