ACP Foundation College Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Adam Charles Ports Foundation

Overview
The Adam Charles Ports (ACP) Foundation supports students who train in the martial arts by awarding meaningful college scholarships. Awards start at $1,000. Since the Foundation began, it has granted $768,000 in scholarships. In 2024 the Foundation awarded 22 scholarships totaling $87,000 — a big thank-you to all donors and sponsors who make this possible.

Important dates and timeline (2025–2026 cycle)
- Application deadline: July 31, 2025 (applications must be postmarked or received by this date).
- Awards announced: October 2025.
- Funds disbursed: Scholarship checks are sent directly to the recipient’s school during the winter quarter/semester so the money is available for spring tuition. Before funds can be released, the ACP Foundation requires the recipient’s Social Security number and student ID number.

Who is eligible
To apply for an ACP Foundation College Scholarship you must:
- Have completed at least one year of training in any style of martial arts.
- Be a resident of the State of Ohio, or be an undergraduate student with a permanent Ohio address.
- Complete and submit all items listed on the Scholarship Application Checklist (below).

What the committee looks for
Applications are evaluated using these criteria:
- Instructor’s recommendation
- Essay (see application for topic and length guidance)
- Martial arts accomplishments (rank, competitions, leadership, etc.)
- Personal statement

Required application materials (checklist)
Please complete both sides of the application form. Include all items below:
- Completed Scholarship Application Form (both sides).
- Proof of enrollment: an official letter of acceptance to a college, university, or vocational school OR a registration list showing the courses for which you are registered for the next term.
- Letter of recommendation from your martial arts instructor.
- Personal statement: one page about yourself.
- Essay: 2–3 pages, double-spaced (follow the topic described on the Scholarship Application Form).
- This completed checklist included with your application.
- Submit the entire packet by July 31, 2025.

Submission tips from a teacher
- Start early — ask your instructor for a recommendation well before the deadline.
- Follow formatting directions for the essay (length, double-spacing).
- Proofread your personal statement and essay; a clear, thoughtful application stands out.
- Make copies of everything you send and keep records of dates and any tracking information.

If you follow the checklist and pay attention to the deadlines, you’ll give your application the best possible chance. Good luck — and thank you for your commitment to martial arts and to your education.