For every $1,000 in tuition increase, enrollment among low income students drops 5 percent."

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The National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education

The New York Times, March 24, 2017

Montclair Scholarship Fund, Inc. (MSF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, awards scholarships to college-bound Montclair High School seniors with financial need.

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Established in 1957 by the Montclair Board of Education to receive and administer private gifts to the public school system, MSF also administers several longstanding scholarships that are awarded by Montclair High School faculty and others.

 

MSF has no staff but is instead run by a volunteer board of trustees and three ex officio members of the Montclair Public School System: the President of the Board of Education, the Principal of Montclair High School, and the Superintendent of the Montclair Public Schools.

MSF Overview

How are MSF scholarships funded?

Individuals (current and former Montclair residents, Montclair High School alumni and their families) and local foundations are the primary source of funding. Bequests and planned giving are another source. Montclair High School graduates many talented students. Unfortunately, every year there are more students who would benefit from an MSF scholarship than there are available funds. This is why individual donations are so important and appreciated!



Who can apply for MSF awards?

Graduating Montclair High School seniors who are accepted at a college or university.



Is there a minimum GPA requirement?

No. However, the likelihood of success in college is a factor in determining scholarship awards.



How much are MSF awards?

In 2015 and 2016, MSF awards ranged from $250-$10,000; the median award was around $2,000. Award amounts vary from year to year based on donations received and scholarship availability. 2017 awards ranged from $500 to $10,000; the median award was approximately $2000.



How are MSF Scholarships awarded?

The MSF Scholarship Committee carefully and confidentially reviews each student’s application and supporting materials. The Committee also interviews each applicant during school hours in early May. After the interview, the Committee deliberates and awards scholarships considering the student’s high school record, interests and aptitudes, donor criteria (if applicable) and financial need. Funds are sent directly to the college or university after MSF receives verification of enrollment. Scholarship forms and instructions are provided by MSF to the student at the Montclair High School Awards Night.



For what expenses may the scholarship funds be used?

Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other academic-related supplies, as well as for room/board and transportation expenses related to school.



What is the need for college scholarships in Montclair?

Each year, 20-25% of the Montclair High School senior class qualifies for Federal financial aid for college tuition. Those same students often apply for a MSF award. Many MSF scholarship recipients come from low-income families and are the first in their family to attend college. Each year, MSF awards approximately 40 scholarships of varying amounts to Montclair High School graduating seniors with financial need. Unfortunately, this represents less than half the qualified applications and a small percentage of their overall college costs. With your help, Montclair Scholarship Fund can provide increased scholarship money to deserving applicants and reduce college debt.