The Herb Block Scholarship

The Herb Block Scholarship

The Herb Block Scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance to high school graduates, first-year college students and adult learners who wish to continue their studies at the DC area's community colleges because they are the least well-served in the field of higher education and because they provide accessibility and a mix of course work that mirrors the communities they serve.

"Mr. Block saw education as a cornerstone for a better life, " according to Mrs. Rickard, Executive Director of the Foundation.  In his will he urged the creation of post-secondary education scholarships for those with financial need. He wanted to give a chance to students who have successfully completed high school but found the cost of college out of their reach."  

Frequently Asked Questions:

Am I Eligible?

If you are high school graduate or have completed your GED, you may be eligible. You may also be eligible if you're currently enrolled at one of the participating community colleges and have completed fewer than 30 credits. All applicants for The Herb Block Scholarship must:  

• meet the eligibility criteria for federal aid (though you do not need to receive federal aid);
• be a permanent resident of Washington, DC; Prince George's or Montgomery Counties in Maryland; Arlington or Fairfax Counties or the cities of Falls Church or Alexandria in Virginia;
• planning full-time or part-time attendance at one of the participating community colleges.

Which Community Colleges Participate?

All campuses of the following community colleges particpate in The Herb Block Scholarship:

• Montogmery College
• Northern Virginia Community College
• Prince George's Community College
• Community College of the District of Columbia

What Types of Students Receive Awards?

Scholarships are awarded to students of all races and genders baws on the following criteria:

• Academic Performance - The Herb Block Scholarship seeks to recognize both students who are high achievers ('A' and 'B' students), as well as students who may have started at a 'C' level and have shown improvement during their academic career.
• Financial Need - The Herb Block recipients must apply for financial aid at their college using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and demonstrate financial need. (Note: students do not need to receive federal financial aid but they do need to apply for it). For more information contact www.fafsa.ed.gov.

How Much Is the Scholarship Worth?

The Herb Block Scholarship is a "last dollar" scholarship valued at up to $8,000 per academic year (not to exceed $16,000 over the life of the scholarship). The award covers tuition, mandatory fees, books and supplies, as well as limited transportation and child care expenses. The actual award amount for each recipient is determined in conjunction with the financial aid office, and is based on a student's balance after all other financial resources are considered.

Are the Rewards Renewable?

The Herb Block recipients enrolled full-time can renew their scholarship for one additional year (total of two years), or until completion of an associate degree program, whichever comes first. Scholarship recipients enrolled part-time may renew their award for up to three additional years (total of four years), or until completion of an associate degree, whichever comes first.

When Are Applications Due?

The Herb Block Scholarship has two application deadlines each year to accommodate the community college population. Applications for fall semester awards are due July7th; applications for spring semester are due November 10th.

For More Information:

You may contact ETS Scholarship & Recognition Programs (SRP), the administrators of the program on behalf of the Foundation at 609.771.7878 or SRP-CSR@ets.org