GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund

One of the oldest and largest LGBTQ+ scholarship programs in the country, founded in 1990. The GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund has invested over $5 million in LGBTQ+ students.

Geographic Scope: Washington State (primarily Pacific Northwest), serving students pursuing higher education

Focus Areas:

• Supporting LGBTQ+ students and allies
• Emphasis on students with marginalized intersectional identities
• Students demonstrating leadership potential, strong academic ability, and community involvement
• In 2019, 46% of scholars identified as trans and/or gender diverse
• In 2019, 72% of scholars identified as students of color

What They Fund:

• Direct financial scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students
• Leadership development programming and workshops
• Three-day annual leadership immersion camp (Leadership Academy Immersion Weekend)
• Network of support and mentorship
• Skills-based training

Eligibility:

• LGBTQ+ students and allied students
• Full-time undergraduate and graduate students
• Demonstrated leadership potential
• Strong academic performance
• Community involvement and dedication
• Students with marginalized intersectional identities prioritized

Award Examples:

• 2019: $500,000 invested in 50 scholars
• 2020: $600,000 invested in 60 scholars
• Four-Year Guarantee program available

Contact Information:

• GSBA
• 400 E Pine St Ste 322
• Seattle, WA 98122
• 206.363.9188
• Office@theGSBA.org
• Website: thegsba.org

Background: The scholarship program provides not only financial support for LGBTQ+ students but also a comprehensive network of support, skills-based workshops, and leadership training. GSBA works to empower students with marginalized intersectional identities within the LGBTQ+ community.

How to Apply

Application Process:

1. Complete scholarship application form
2. Participate in Scholarship Interview Day (typically held in-person at designated locations like City University)
3. Interview with GSBA selection committee
4. Selected scholars are notified and invited to GSBA Scholar events

Required Materials: (Specific materials not detailed in provided content, but typically include)

• Application form
• Essay/personal statement demonstrating leadership and community involvement
• Academic records/transcripts
• References or letters of recommendation (implied)

Submission Details:

• In-person interviews conducted on Scholarship Interview Day
• Multiple interview sessions available
• Selection based on demonstrated leadership potential, academic ability, and community involvement

Key Program Features:

• Four-Year Guarantee option available for eligible students
• Leadership development workshops and immersion experiences included
• Annual GSBA Scholars Dinner celebration event
• Ongoing mentorship and networking opportunities with GSBA community
• Alumni engagement opportunities after graduation