FSF Case Study Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Fashion Scholarship Foundation

Description
The FSF Case Study Scholarship is an annual, signature competition that challenges students with an in-depth, real-world fashion industry brief. Each year’s case study topic changes to reflect pressing issues in design, business, sustainability, technology, or equity within fashion. The program seeks talented students across all fashion disciplines and career interests, encouraging applicants from diverse backgrounds. Winning projects demonstrate strategic thinking, practical solutions, and strong presentation skills.
Key takeaways
- Annual FSF Case Study Scholarship focused on a rotating industry challenge
- Topics change each year to reflect current fashion issues
- Open to students across all fashion sectors and disciplines
- Winners present solution-driven, real-world work

Eligibility
Eligibility criteria focus on enrollment status, institution type, and visa considerations. Applicants must be full-time sophomores, juniors, or seniors (graduates expected Spring 2027 for the 2027 competition) and must attend a four-year college or university located in the United States. International students on F-1 visas are eligible to compete; they are encouraged to include documentation of any prior CPT (Curricular Practical Training) by the submission deadline. Students from non-member schools who otherwise meet eligibility requirements may also enter the competition.
Key takeaways
- Must be a full-time sophomore, junior, or senior (graduating Spring 2027 for this cycle)
- Must attend a U.S. four-year college or university
- F-1 international students may participate; CPT documentation is encouraged
- Students at non-member schools are eligible if they meet the rules

Award value and permitted uses
Scholarship awards are intended to offset educational costs and their exact amounts vary by year and by award. Funds may be applied to tuition, summer intern housing, study abroad expenses, or other qualified educational needs as determined by the FSF. Specific award amounts and the number of winners are announced with each scholarship cycle; applicants should consult the official competition materials for current figures. Travel or lodging support linked to award-related events (e.g., gala attendance) may be provided separately from the scholarship award.
Key takeaways
- Award amounts vary by year and are announced each cycle
- Funds can be used for tuition, housing for internships, study abroad, and similar educational expenses
- Number and size of awards are published with each competition
- Event-related travel/lodging support may be provided separately

Benefits beyond the award
In addition to financial support, recipients gain several professional-development advantages that extend the value of the scholarship. Winners are eligible to join the FSF Mentor Program and select a mentor during their award year, attend the FSF Awards Gala in New York City with complimentary hotel and travel provided, and access internships and job opportunities through FSF partners and talent events. Scholarship recipients also become part of the FSF Alumni Association for ongoing development and networking throughout their careers.
Key takeaways
- Access to the FSF Mentor Program and one-on-one mentorship
- Invitation to the FSF Awards Gala with travel and hotel support
- Opportunities for internships and full-time roles via FSF partners and recruiters
- Lifetime networking and development through the FSF Alumni Association

Application timeline
The FSF Case Study Scholarship follows an annual cycle; specific dates and deadlines change each year and are published by FSF. For the 2027 competition, the program officially opened on February 2, 2026. Applicants should expect a multi-step timeline that typically includes registration/login, submission of the case study project by a published deadline, and finalist/award announcements following judging. Always confirm current deadlines and submission requirements with your campus FSF educator or the official FSF website.
Key takeaways
- Annual competition with dates announced each cycle
- 2027 cycle opened on February 2, 2026
- Process generally includes registration, case study submission, and finalist/award notifications
- Verify exact deadlines with your FSF educator or FSF website

How to apply and contacts
To begin the application you must obtain login and submission details from the FSF educator at your member school; that educator will explain the registration and submission process. Students at non-member schools should follow the FSF website instructions for outside applicants or contact FSF education staff for guidance. International applicants preparing CPT documentation should have those records ready by the submission deadline and consult official U.S. DHS guidance on CPT if needed. For program questions, contact Marie Colletta, Head of Education Programs; for inquiries about the Virgil Abloh Post-Modern Scholarship, contact Farai Simoyi, Head of that fund and equity initiatives.
Key takeaways
- Obtain login and submission instructions from your campus FSF educator (member schools)
- Non-member school applicants should follow FSF website guidance or contact staff directly
- Prepare CPT documentation in advance if applicable and consult DHS resources
- Marie Colletta (Education Programs) and Farai Simoyi (Virgil Abloh fund) are primary contacts

History of the award
The FSF Case Study Scholarship was established as the Foundation’s flagship student program to bridge classroom learning with industry needs. Over the years it has evolved into a high-profile competition that spotlights innovative student thinking and provides pathways into the fashion workforce. By rotating case topics annually, the program stays responsive to emerging industry challenges while building a network of scholarship alumni who continue to influence fashion. The award emphasizes practical solutions, diversity of perspective, and career-readiness.
Key takeaways
- Created as FSF’s flagship program linking education to industry problems
- Annual topic rotation keeps the competition current and industry-relevant
- Designed to cultivate career pathways and a professional alumni network
- Emphasizes practical, solution-oriented student work and diverse perspectives