Overview
Scholarships
The majority of teens plan to go on to college after high school, but the reality is — many never attend. Idaho ranks 49th in the nation for college-going rates of high school graduates going directly from high school, and 41st in the nation for 18-27 year olds enrolled in college. Reasons for not going include not qualifying, not knowing the steps it takes to get into higher education, and the lack of affordable opportunities.
Cost is a barrier for many students in Idaho
Idaho education has become less affordable for students and their families. Poor and working-class families must pay 34% of their income, even after aid, to pay for costs at public four-year colleges (Measuring Up 2008). Financial barriers alone prevent nearly one half of all college-qualified, low- and moderate-income high school graduates from enrolling in a four-year program of college study. (College Board, 2009)
Low-income and Hispanic students are particularly at risk
The likelihood of Idaho students enrolling in college by age 19 is low and has dropped 9 percent since the early 1990s. Twenty-three percent of Hispanic young adults are enrolled in college, compared with 34% of whites. (Measuring Up 2008).
Non-traditional students have additional hurdles
It has been estimated that by 2020, our nation will be short 14 million college-educated workers. Many adults who missed their chance to go to college right after high school, would like to become college educated, but they find it difficult to balance college, work, and family obligations. And for many, affordability and access are key determining factors of whether or not they can enroll.
Our targeted scholarships are an investment in Idahoans and Idaho
We believe that every Idahoan who is motivated to complete education and training beyond high school should have that opportunity. Our goal is help make that happen for more students and to help create a better, more educated workforce and continuing opportunities for the state and its people.
