Anderson Niskanen Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Sponsored by Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation

If you’re a graduating senior from Duluth public high schools and planning to attend the University of Minnesota (either Twin Cities or Duluth), the Anderson Niskanen Scholarship Fund could help make college more affordable. Below I’ve organized the key facts so you can quickly see whether you should apply and what to expect.

What the fund is
- Established in 1998 by Suama Niskanen Anderson in memory of her husband Elmer Anderson and her sister Saima Niskanen. The Andersons were longtime residents of St. Louis County.
- Purpose: provide financial assistance to Duluth public high school graduates for post‑secondary education.

Who is eligible
- Graduates of Duluth Denfeld, Duluth East, Harbor City International School, or the Duluth Area Learning Center.
- Plan to attend the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities or the University of Minnesota Duluth.
- Minimum GPA: 2.5.
- Demonstrated leadership.
- Priority consideration given to applicants who show financial need.

Award amount and use
- Award: $2,000 per year, renewable for up to 4 years (maximum $8,000 total).
- The scholarship is paid directly to the school and may be applied to the costs of post‑secondary education (tuition, fees, required books/supplies, etc.). Confirm with the university’s financial aid office about how the funds will be applied to your account.

Important dates (2025–2026 cycle)
- Applications open: December 1, 2025
- Deadline: February 24, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
- Award notifications: by email, no later than May 1, 2026
- Fall semester payment to school: mailed July 15–30 (no later than July 30, 2026)
- Spring semester payment to school: mailed December 15–30 (no later than December 30, 2026)

Applying and transfers
- Apply through the Universal Application (follow the instructions on the application platform).
- If you plan to transfer schools after being awarded this scholarship, contact DSACF as soon as possible. Transfers don’t automatically move the scholarship; if money was already disbursed, reprocessing the payment may take up to 90 days.

Tax note
- Scholarships can be tax‑free when used for tuition, fees required for enrollment, and required books/supplies, and when you’re a candidate for a degree at an eligible institution. DSACF recommends you seek tax advice for your specific situation and refer to IRS guidance as needed.

Quick tips from a teacher
- Talk with your school counselor early—get help documenting financial need and leadership activities.
- Keep copies of all application materials and note deadlines on your calendar.
- If you have questions about payment timing or transfers, contact DSACF (the scholarship administrator) well before term start dates.

If you want, I can help you draft application responses or a resume of leadership activities.