Albert Shanker College Scholarship Fund
Scholarship Sponsored by United Federation of Teachers
Overview
Each year the United Federation of Teachers awards a total of $1 million in scholarships for undergraduate and graduate study to high-achieving, financially qualified students who attended New York City public schools. Recipients exemplify the academic success possible in the city’s public system and reflect both their own commitment and the support of the educators who helped them.
Undergraduate Eligibility
Applicants for the undergraduate scholarships must be graduating seniors from New York City public high schools — including vocational, academic, or alternative schools — or students receiving an equivalency diploma through a public evening school or a New York City Board of Education alternative program. Candidates must demonstrate strong academic performance, show leadership in school and community activities, and be eligible for and apply for federal financial aid (a Pell Grant).
Graduate Eligibility
Graduate scholarships are available only to past recipients of the UFT undergraduate college scholarships. Graduate applicants must maintain high academic standing, demonstrate leadership qualities, and satisfy the Fund’s family income requirements.
Financial Eligibility and Required Documentation
To qualify for the UFT Albert Shanker scholarships, an applicant’s family income must not exceed the maximums established by the Albert Shanker College Scholarship Fund. These income limits vary by number of dependents; specific ceilings are provided on page four of the scholarship instructions.
Applicants must submit valid proof of family income that includes earnings or support from parents, step-parents, guardians, or any other adults with legal responsibility for the student. The Fund requires tax returns and other official documents as evidence of income. All income sources should be documented, including non-taxable payments such as public assistance, child support, Social Security, and veterans’ pensions. Families residing abroad are also required to provide appropriate income documentation.
Selection Process
An impartial selection committee appointed by the Fund’s Director chooses the winners. About two-thirds of undergraduate college scholarships are awarded primarily on the basis of high school average and class standing. The remaining scholarships are decided using recommendations, personal statements, the applicant’s potential, and academic record.
Scholarship Payments
Undergraduate awards are paid directly to recipients by the Fund. Payments are mailed to the recipient’s address of record in semiannual installments of $625, up to a total award cap of $5,000. Graduate scholarship payments are also made semiannually directly to the student after enrollment is confirmed.