CMP Scholarship Program

Scholarship Sponsored by Civilian Marksmanship Program

Overview
The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) supports graduating high school seniors who compete in marksmanship by offering a variety of scholarships. In 2025 the program will award more than $325,000 in scholarship funds, including both one‑year awards and several larger renewable scholarships.

Types of scholarships (summary)
- One‑year awards: $1,000, $3,000, and $5,000 scholarships for qualified junior marksmen.
- Four renewable scholarships: Four $5,000 awards that are renewable for up to four years (total value of each renewable award: $20,000). One of these is the Carolyn Hines Memorial Scholarship (given to the senior who best exemplifies Dr. Hines’ ideals); three additional renewable awards honor retiring CMP Board members Judith Legerski, Jon Bengston and Harry Sieben. Recipients are chosen by the CMP Scholarship Committee.
- Named donations: The Garand Collectors Association is providing four $5,000 John C. Garand Scholarships; the Michael T. Randall family is contributing three $5,000 Michael T. Randall Memorial Scholarships.
- CMP Local Scholarships: Available in the areas around Anniston, AL; Talladega, AL; Port Clinton, OH; and Oak Harbor, OH. (No prior marksmanship experience is required to apply for these local awards.)

Who selects recipients
Scholarship recipients are selected by the CMP Scholarship Committee based on merit and the documentation you submit.

Who is eligible
To apply for CMP scholarships, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Be of good moral character.
- Be a graduating high school senior.
- Have acceptance (or anticipated acceptance) to an accredited university, college, technical/trade school or vocational program leading to a diploma or trade certification.
- Demonstrate marksmanship competition experience (examples: air gun, smallbore, pistol, rifle, shotgun, archery, etc.). Note: local scholarships in specified areas may allow applicants without prior marksmanship experience.

Application requirements (2025–2026)
Submit a completed application along with:
- A certified copy of your high school transcript.
- A personal letter explaining why you are applying and how the scholarship will help you reach your goals.
- Documentation verifying your marksmanship activity (team rosters, match results, letters from coaches or program leaders, etc.).

Payment and permitted use
Scholarship funds are paid directly to the recipient. The check may be used to pay tuition, fees, or other education‑related expenses that are not already covered by other awards or grants.

Important deadline
All application materials must be received by April 4, 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Selection emphasis
CMP seeks applicants who currently compete in marksmanship competitions and are active members of a team or club. Selection is based on merit, documented experience, and the strength of your application materials.

Quick checklist before you submit
- Complete the application form.
- Attach a certified transcript.
- Write and attach your personal letter.
- Include documentation of marksmanship activity.
- Verify submission is complete and postmarked/received by April 4, 2026.

If you plan to apply, start early so you can gather transcripts and verifications, and write a clear letter that explains your goals and how the scholarship will help. If you have questions about specific scholarships (local vs. national, or the renewable awards), contact CMP directly for clarification.