CMP Scholarship Program

Scholarship Sponsored by Civilian Marksmanship Program

Quick summary for seniors: the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) offers a range of college and trade-school scholarships for graduating high‑school seniors who compete in marksmanship — plus some local awards that don’t require shooting experience. Read this carefully if you plan to continue your education and have participated (or plan to participate) in marksmanship competitions. What CMP is offering in 2026 - One‑year scholarships in amounts of $3,000, $5,000 and $10,000 are available. In total, up to $1,000,000 in awards may be distributed in 2026. - One $10,000 scholarship will be renewable for up to four years (total potential value $40,000). - Four $5,000 scholarships will be renewable for up to four years (each total potential value $20,000). One of these is the Carolyn Hines Memorial Scholarship (awarded to the senior who best exemplifies Dr. Hines’ ideals). The other three honor retiring CMP Board members Judith Legerski, Jon Bengston and Harry Sieben. Scholarship recipients are chosen by the CMP Scholarship Committee. - The Garand Collectors Association is generously sponsoring four additional $5,000 John C. Garand Scholarships. - Up to 30 CMP Local Scholarships of $1,000 each will be awarded in the Anniston/Oxford, AL; Talladega, AL; and Ottawa County, OH areas. No marksmanship experience is required for these local awards. How the money is paid and used - Scholarships are paid directly to the recipient by electronic deposit (ACH). - Funds may be applied to tuition, fees, or other educational expenses not covered by other awards or grants. Who should apply — eligibility CMP Shooting Sports Scholarships (general CMP scholarships) - U.S. citizen - Graduating high‑school senior - Of good moral character - Accepted to an accredited university, college, trade/technical school, or vocational program that leads to a diploma or trade certification - Demonstrated marksmanship competition experience (examples: air gun, smallbore, pistol, rifle, shotgun, archery) CMP Local Scholarships (Anniston/Oxford, Talladega, Ottawa County) - U.S. citizen - Graduating high‑school senior - Of good moral character - Accepted to an accredited university, college, trade/technical school, or vocational program that leads to a diploma or trade certification - Note: marksmanship experience is not required for the local $1,000 awards Selection process - Recipients are chosen by the CMP Scholarship Committee. Special memorial and commemorative scholarships are awarded to top seniors who reflect the values or service of the individuals they honor. A few practical tips (teacher to student) - Double‑check that your acceptance letter or proof of enrollment is ready before you apply. - If you compete in multiple disciplines (air rifle, smallbore, pistol, archery, etc.), list that experience clearly. - Keep copies of any competition records, team/club affiliation, and letters of recommendation — the committee looks for demonstrated participation and character. If you want, I can help you turn this into a checklist for an application packet or draft a short personal statement that highlights your marksmanship and character.