FAITH Scholarships for Academic Excellence

Scholarship Sponsored by FAITH Endowment

Here’s a clearer, teacherly version of the FAITH Scholarship materials—organized so you can read it fast, know exactly what’s required, and avoid mistakes that will disqualify your application.

Overview
- Since 2004 FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism has awarded merit-based FAITH Scholarships for Academic Excellence to outstanding graduating high school seniors of Hellenic descent and/or Greek Orthodox faith. Awardees join a network of more than 750 FAITH Scholars who combine strong scholarship with community service, leadership, and Orthodox Christian values.
- Scholarships are merit-based. Applicants may optionally submit financial documents if they want to be considered for additional need-based funds.

Who may apply (Eligibility summary)
You should apply if all of the following are true:
- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (proof required for permanent residents).
- You are a high school senior graduating from an accredited public, private, or parochial high school in the United States.
- You plan to enroll in a 4-year accredited U.S. college or university in the fall of 2025.
- You are of Hellenic descent and/or a member of the Greek Orthodox faith and a member of a Greek Orthodox parish.
- You can provide a Baptismal or Chrismation Certificate (no exceptions).

Important dates and contact information
- Application postmark deadline: June 24, 2025. Applications postmarked after this date will be considered late and will not be accepted.
- If your application has been mailed, expect an email confirmation from FAITH. If you don’t receive confirmation by July 15, 2025, call (212) 803-9363 or email info@thefaithendowment.org. It is your responsibility to follow up.
- Applicants will be notified of the Review Committee’s decision by email in September.
- Award checks are made out to recipients and mailed to the address on the application.

How to submit (format and mailing)
- All applications must be received by mail. Do not staple any materials.
- Include every required document. Incomplete packets will not be considered.
- You may include recommenders’ signed/sealed envelopes in your packet, or recommenders may email their letters directly.

Required application materials (checklist)
1. Official academic transcript
- Must include Spring 2025 semester grades. If Spring grades are not finalized, send the latest official transcript plus an unofficial Spring 2025 progress report or report card.
- Include copies of applicable standardized test records (SAT, ACT, SAT Subject Tests) and any AP exam score reports you wish to submit. If you plan to submit 2025 AP scores, indicate this on the application and email scores when available.

2. Baptismal or Chrismation Certificate
- A copy of the certificate is required. No exceptions.

3. Resume
- List extracurriculars, school activities, volunteer work, internships, jobs, leadership roles, and church involvement.

4. Essays
- Thoughtfully answer each prompt listed in Section III of the application on a separate page.
- Recommended length: about 100–150 words per prompt.

5. Two letters of recommendation (REQUIRED from two different categories)
- Academic: from a teacher, advisor, or program director at your high school.
- Religious/Spiritual: from a parish priest or youth director.
- Recommenders must complete the recommendation form (see application pages 8–9) and include the form and letter in a signed/sealed envelope, or email them directly to FAITH.

6. Proof of college acceptance and planned matriculation
- Include a copy of the acceptance letter and confirmation of your intent to matriculate.

Optional: Documents to be considered for need-based funds
If you want to be considered for additional need-based allocations, submit all items below:
- Section VII of the application (financial worksheet). Break down expected expenses (tuition, books, fees, room, board, transport, etc.) and list all sources of funding (loans, scholarships, grants, parental support, etc.).
- Copy of the financial aid package from the college.
- A schedule showing annual gross income and expenses for 2024 (show all sources used to meet living expenses).
- Tax documents: complete 2024 Form 1040 and first two pages of 2023 and 2022 Form 1040. If income was reported on business or trust returns, include those entity returns (Form 1120, 1065, or 1041) and accompanying financial statements. If parents are divorced, include both parents’ returns. Block out Social Security numbers.
- If applicable, a personal statement explaining special or extenuating circumstances.

Gap year applicants
- If you graduated high school in 2024 and took a gap year, provide a statement describing how and where you spent the gap year, the reasons for it, and your objectives. Include two additional references who can confirm your gap year statement.

Possible interview
- Applicants may be asked to participate in a telephone interview at the Committee’s discretion.

Final reminders and tips (from a teacher)
- Read every instruction and checklist item carefully before you assemble your packet. Missing one required item will make your application incomplete.
- Ask recommenders well before the deadline. Provide them with the recommendation form and a stamped envelope if they are returning the letter to you.
- Make copies of everything you send and keep them organized.
- Don’t staple documents. Use paper clips or bind the packet neatly.
- If you have questions, call (212) 803-9363 or email info@thefaithendowment.org. Also follow FAITH on Facebook for updates.

FAITH values academic excellence, leadership, service, and faith. Present your best, most honest application—organized, complete, and on time—and you’ll give the Review Committee the clear picture they need to evaluate you fairly.