Exploring Scholarship Opportunities at Florida Southern College

Florida Southern College, a private institution established in 1883 in Lakeland, Florida, offers a variety of scholarships to support students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to specific fields of study. With a suburban setting and a total undergraduate enrollment of 2,738, Florida Southern provides a vibrant campus environment where students can engage in more than 70 clubs and student organizations, as well as over 20 intramural sports. The availability of Greek life, with more than 10 fraternities and sororities, further enhances the college experience. Understanding the different scholarships available and their requirements is crucial for prospective students.

Merit-Based Scholarships

These scholarships recognize students for their outstanding academic achievements and potential.

The Hollingsworth Scholarship

Florida Southern's premier award, the Hollingsworth Scholarship, recognizes the very best of the best. This competitive opportunity is reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and outstanding leadership potential.

Danforth Scholarship

To qualify for the Danforth Scholarship, applicants should:

Be a first-time, first-year student admitted to Florida Southern by the deadline.
Have a high school GPA of 3.5 or above.
Earn at least a 29 ACT or 1330 SAT.

To apply:

Complete the scholarship application by the priority deadline (November 1) or final deadline (January 3).
Write one short essay (300-500 words) from a list of three prompts. You’ll choose the topic that best reflects your passions, goals, or contributions.
If selected as a finalist, participate in a virtual interview with a faculty committee.

These are our most prestigious awards, so the selection process is competitive.

George W. Jenkins Scholarship

The George W. Jenkins Scholarship provides a full, four-year educational experience at Florida Southern without the burden of financial hardship. Created to support deserving students who have faced significant challenges, this award covers tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, and more.

Program-Specific Scholarships

These scholarships target students pursuing specific fields of study, recognizing their talent and dedication.

Alderman Scholarship

Established by Gettys P. Alderman and his wife, Alice, this award supports promising Florida students pursuing a career in accounting. Based on academic achievement and financial need.

Art and Museum Scholarship

Granted to students who submit a strong written portfolio or personal reflection on the role of the arts or museums.

Read also: Crafting Perfect Thank You Notes

Communication Scholarship

Awarded through audition and interview.

Emile E. Lucidus P. Thad G. Scholarship

Supports students pursuing degrees in the natural sciences. Awards recognize academic achievement and a passion for scientific discovery, helping future scientists develop the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in research, healthcare, or industry.

E.T. Roux Scholarship

Valued at $8,000. Supports education majors planning to pursue teaching careers.

Music Scholarship

Awarded based on audition and skill level in voice, instrumental performance, or composition. Ensemble participants (such as band, choir, and orchestra) may also qualify.

Nursing Scholarship

Nursing scholarships support students committed to careers in healthcare and service. Awards are granted to those who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and compassion.

Read also: Foundation Scholarship Details

Theatre Scholarship

Awarded through audition and interview for students pursuing performance, design, or technical theatre.

Visual Art Scholarship

Recognize originality, artistic excellence, and technical skill. Applicants submit a portfolio showcasing creativity and innovation.

Weinstein Scholarship

Weinstein Scholarships are awarded to exceptional computer science students who demonstrate academic achievement, curiosity, and problem-solving skills. Recipients benefit from FSC’s Weinstein Computer Science Building, featuring a cybersecurity lab, automation lab, makerspace, and esports studio.

Scholarships for Specific Groups

These scholarships provide support for specific groups of students, such as transfer students and ROTC participants.

Transfer Student Scholarships

FSC offers generous scholarships, including the Phi Theta Kappa Award and additional transfer merit awards, to help you make a smooth and affordable transition.

ROTC Room and Board Scholarships

ROTC Room and Board Scholarships provide supplemental support for undergraduate students enrolled in ROTC who live on campus.

Understanding the Costs and Financial Aid

Navigating the costs of college can be daunting, but understanding the available financial aid options can make it more manageable.

Costs and Financial Aid Statistics

Average Net Price: $30,462 per year
Students Receiving Financial Aid: 64%
Average Aid Package: $32,331
Books and Supplies: $1,250 per year
Personal Expenses: $2,160 per year
Transportation: $1,230 per year

Types of Financial Aid

Financial aid can include grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study jobs. Financial aid packages vary depending on your financial need. Most colleges determine financial need based on your FAFSA.

Need-Based Scholarship or Grant Award: $27,763 (Scholarships and grants don’t need to be paid back.)
Need-Based Loan Amount: $5,479 (Loans must be paid back.)
Non-Need-Based Aid: $26,150
Debt at Graduation: $27,170 (The typical amount of loans a student must pay back.)

Important Dates

Financial Aid Application Due: July 1 (The last day to apply for financial aid or turn in related paperwork.)
Priority Application Due: March 1 (Applications received prior to this date will be given the strongest consideration. Still apply for financial aid if you don’t make this due date.)

Net Price Calculation

Your net price is a college’s cost of attendance minus the grants and scholarships you receive. The net price you pay for a particular college is specific to you because it’s based on your personal circumstances and the college’s financial aid policies. Use the college’s Net Price calculator for the most accurate estimate of your net price.

Additional Information

Florida Southern College is ranked 11 in Regional Universities South in the 2024 edition of Best Colleges. Its tuition and fees are $42,360. It practices a semester-based academic calendar. Students admitted to the college have the opportunity to join more than 70 clubs and student organizations, as well as more than 20 intramural sports. Greek life is also prevalent on campus with more than 10 fraternities and sororities for students to choose from.

tags: #danforth #scholarship #florida #southern #requirements