MLK Online Scholarship Application

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship was established in 1973 to honor the memory of the life and work of Dr. King and to preserve the legacy of the nonviolent human rights movement as it was expressed in his life and teachings.

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Committee is hopeful that all recipients will explore how problems such as racism, sexism, classism, militarism, ageism, and prejudice in our schools, cities, nation, and world, can be confronted effectively and peacefully.

Eligibility requirements for the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship:

1. A high school senior or high school graduate preparing for the first year of college;

2. A resident of, or a member of a religious institution in the capital area;

3. Acceptance and maintain good standing at an accredited college or university.

Submission of the form below no later than March 31st:

1. Completed on-line application form.

2. Upload a copy of your Academic record - High School transcript, GPA/Ranking

3. Upload a copy of your student financial aid summary and FAFSA form.

4. Have one of your teachers or guidance counselors mail in a recommendation. The teacher or guidance counselor must know you personally and must be able to express an opinion on your ability to compete at the college or university level.

5. Have your religious leader or a local community leader mail in a recommendation,. The religious leader or a local community leader must know you personally and must be able to express an opinion on your ability to compete at the college or university level. 

6. Upload a five hundred (500) word essay, two typed pages, double-spaced with at least two referenced sources

   Essay Guidelines: The teachings of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. focus on racial justice and nonviolent social change. Please write an essay in 500 words on what you understand about those teachings and how you might promote his ideals in your life. Your essay will be judged on:

   1. Creative content - Did you utilize a unique prospective or point of view?

   2. Idea development & focus - Was the idea developed to the fullest extent? Was the essay coherent and rational? Did you remain focused?

   3. Writing style - Includes format, spelling, punctuation.

Awards for the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Scholarship are given based on the following criteria:

1. How you have implemented and plan to implement the goals of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as described in your essay.

2. Financial need

3. Evidence of Service provide specific examples of your service in each of these 3 areas and explain how your service reflects the ideals of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

   1. School

   2. Faith community

   3. Society

4. Academic record

5. Personal goals

Interview Process: If you are chosen as a finalist, you will be expected to take part in an interview with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Committee Members. This interview is a significant determining factor in awarding the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship.