Rhode Island PBS Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Rhode Island Foundation

Overview
This scholarship, established by Rhode Island PBS in 2017 and managed in partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation, supports students who show promise for a career in journalism or media. Awards are intended for residents of the station’s market area (Rhode Island and Bristol County, MA) and are meant to help cover the cost of a four‑year college education in those fields.

Key facts
- Award amount: up to $15,000 per year.
- Renewable: recipients may renew for up to three additional years (total potential support up to four years).
- Application opens: January (each year).
- Deadline this cycle: 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, April 13, 2026.
- Application platform: Rhode Island Foundation’s secure online scholarship system.
- Selection: an advisory committee reviews materials and chooses recipients.

Who is eligible
- Residents of Rhode Island or Bristol County, Massachusetts.
- A graduating high school senior planning to attend an accredited, four‑year college, or a student already enrolled in an accredited, four‑year institution.
- Applicants must demonstrate financial need and show merit toward a successful career in journalism and/or media.
- Current employees of Ocean State Media, their children, and other immediate family members are not eligible.
- Past recipients may reapply.

Required application materials
Complete the Universal Application on the Rhode Island Foundation platform, which may include:
- Personal essays.
- Official transcripts.
- Résumé worksheet.
- Letter of recommendation from a teacher or other professional who can speak to your potential in journalism/media.
- A work sample (writing, video, audio, photography, or another creative example).
- Any other supporting documents requested on the application.

How applications are evaluated
The advisory committee considers the whole application: demonstrated financial need, evidence of merit and commitment to journalism/media (portfolio/work sample, essays, recommendations), academic preparation, and the strength of supporting documents.

How to apply (step-by-step)
1. When the application opens in January, go to the Rhode Island Foundation’s scholarship portal and create an account.
2. Complete the Universal Application and upload all required documents.
3. Request your recommendation(s) early so referees have time to submit.
4. Submit the completed application through the portal before 11:59 p.m. EST on April 13, 2026.

A few practical tips from a teacher
- Start early: gather transcripts and portfolio pieces now so you can refine your essays.
- Choose a recommender who knows your journalistic or creative work well.
- Clearly explain your financial need and how this scholarship would affect your plans.
- Keep copies of everything you submit and note deadlines for your recommenders.

For the application link and the most current instructions, use the Rhode Island Foundation’s scholarship platform. If you have specific questions about eligibility or required documents, check the Foundation’s site or contact the scholarship administrator listed there.