Scholarships

Men under the age of 35 who identify as gay, along with other LGBTQ+ community members, are eligible to apply. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and have graduated from high school or obtained a GED certificate by June of the application year.

Students planning to attend community college or technical training programs are highly encouraged to apply. 

All scholarship applications must be submitted through our online application process. Be sure to carefully read all instructions and answer each question thoroughly and thoughtfully to ensure your application is complete.

All applications must be submitted electronically and electronically postmarked by March 31 for the academic year beginning in the fall of that calendar year.

As of 2024, scholarships range in value from $2,500 to $5,000 per award, with Named Scholarships typically valued at $5,000. 

Scholarship recipients are notified by May 31, and awards are paid directly to the educational institution.

No, you do not need to be accepted into an educational institution before applying. In your essay, make sure to explain the institutions you are applying to and when you expect to be notified of your acceptance. 

Scholarship awards are made payable directly to the educational institution. If you are selected for a scholarship, we will notify you by May 31 and you can confirm the name and address of the institution you will be attending at that time.

No, scholarships are awarded to both undergraduate and graduate students. Students attending community colleges or technical schools are also eligible.

Yes, you are eligible for a scholarship if you have 1–2 years of community college remaining and either:  

1. Intend to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year institution, or  
2. Plan to graduate with an associate degree. 

Be sure to include details about your educational goals, aspirations, and any challenges or contributions you have made in your community in your application.

Yes, we welcome applications from students enrolled in verifiable post-secondary trade or technical programs, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. The Foundation does not provide scholarships for online programs. 

Scholarship checks are made payable to and sent directly to the educational institution. The full amount is combined with your financial aid package to cover tuition, books, and fees associated with your program of study.

Single scholarships are awarded for a specific academic year, but you may reapply and receive additional scholarships in the future.

Not at all. The core of the application process is the essay question on page three. If you have faced significant challenges in life, this is your opportunity to share them. We seek students who are motivated to improve themselves and build a better future.

No, we support students in all types of academic fields, trade, and professional programs. If you are just starting college, we understand that you may not have chosen a specific academic major or profession yet.

Ideally, yes. However, we understand that financial circumstances, even with other scholarships and student loans, may make full-time enrollment difficult. Be sure to explain your personal situation in your essay. Keep in mind that the entire scholarship award is paid directly to the educational institution to cover related expenses. 

The Gamma Mu Foundation is dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in rural and underserved areas of America, where the gay community often faces significant challenges and limited resources. Many students from these regions experience discrimination or marginalization from their families and communities.

As the Foundation evolves to meet the changing needs of the LGBTQ+ community, it remains committed to addressing the unique obstacles faced by community members from diverse backgrounds and underserved areas, ensuring greater access to educational and personal development opportunities.

You are not disqualified. The Gamma Mu Foundation recognize the significant challenges faced by gay men in metropolitan settings. Students in urban areas often encounter financial obstacles, discrimination, or other barriers, even in environments that may seem more accepting. At the same time, many students in cities have opportunities to engage in programs or clubs that promote diversity and tolerance—efforts that we value greatly.  

Be sure to highlight your personal experiences, challenges, and contributions in your essay. Whether you’ve faced financial hardship or worked to promote acceptance and visibility in your community, we seek to support students striving to make a positive impact, regardless of where they are from.

Not at all. Many of the leaders and donors of our Foundation come from rural areas and understand the unique challenges faced by gay students in these communities. Your experiences and resilience are valued and appreciated in the application process.

No, the Gamma Mu Foundation does not consider religion or ethnicity in the application process. Our scholarship program is dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. While you are not required to provide information about religion or ethnicity, you are encouraged to share any aspects of your background or life experiences that have shaped who you are, as they may help provide a fuller picture of your story.  

Yes, women can apply through named LGBTQ+ scholarships, which offer opportunities for the broader LGBTQ+ community.

The Gamma Mu Board of Directors has a Scholarships Committee composed of Foundation Fellows from across the country who review and evaluate applications. The Scholarships Committee then makes recommendations to the Foundation’s Board of Directors, which approves the final recipients.

If you have questions or need more information, we’re here to help!

Email us at scholarships@gammamufoundation.org

We’ll get back to you with answers as soon as possible! Feel free to reach out—we’re happy to assist.