Adult Learners Scholarship

Geographic Scope: Arizona

Focus Areas: Education; support for adult learners pursuing certificates or degrees

Eligibility

• Age 25 or older
• Currently enrolled or intending to enroll in an accredited Arizona college, university, or certification program
• Current member of Desert Financial Credit Union
• No specific GPA requirement mentioned

Award Details

• Number of Awards: 30 adults annually (based on 2024 cycle with 27 at $3,000 and 3 at $5,000)
• Total Annual Funding: $96,000 (based on 2024 cycle)
• Standard Scholarships: $3,000 (27 awards)
• Top Scholarships: $5,000 (3 randomly selected awards)
• Recipients also receive gifts including iPad, iPad case, Apple Pencil, snacks, and school supplies

Background

Desert Financial Foundation supports adult learners seeking to advance their education and improve their financial situations. As of 2024, the Foundation has awarded over $1 million in scholarships since 2015. Nearly 160 applicants competed for the 30 available scholarships in 2024.

Application Process

Application Period: Applications accepted on a rolling basis (deadline typically late April based on 2024 cycle)

Required Materials:

• Completed application form
• Proof of age 25 or older
• Documentation of enrollment or intent to enroll in accredited Arizona program
• Proof of Desert Financial Credit Union membership
• Information about program (college, university, or certification program)

Selection Criteria:

• Demonstrated commitment to education
• Financial need
• Life circumstances and goals
• Random selection for top $5,000 awards from among qualified applicants

Award Notification: Selected recipients are invited to Desert Financial Foundation Scholarship Ceremony for celebration and award distribution (typically held in May)