Joseph A. Beavers College Scholarship

Geographic Scope: Washington, DC

Overview:
The Joseph A. Beavers College Scholarship fund supports outstanding DC high school students pursuing higher education. Named in honor of former UPO advocate and famed laborer, this scholarship has awarded over $1 million to academic achievers from DC's low-income communities since the early 2000s.

Award Details:

• Amount: $10,000 per scholar
• Frequency: Annual awards (typically 5 scholars per year)
• Total Awarded: Over $1 million to 200+ scholars over 40+ years

Eligibility Requirements:

• Target Applicants: Rising juniors (high school juniors entering senior year)
• Residency: Must be a DC resident
• Academic: Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Academic Excellence: High academic achievement required
• Community Service: Demonstrated community and volunteer work valued in selection

Selection Criteria:
Applicants undergo a demanding selection process. Winners are evaluated on:

• Academic excellence
• Community and volunteer work
• Essay responses

Use of Funds:
Scholarship funds can be applied toward:

• Tuition
• Room and board
• Study abroad
• Other collegiate expenses

Support Provided:

• One-time $10,000 award
• Ongoing support, motivation, and assistance through college
• UPO accompanies scholars until they reach their final goal

Impact:

• Beavers scholars have become scientists, teachers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders
• Vast majority were first in their families to attend college
• Supported rising pilots, engineers, biologists, therapists, zoologists, and other professionals

Application Process

Eligibility:

• Rising juniors only (high school juniors entering senior year)
• DC resident
• 3.0+ GPA minimum

Required Materials:

1. Completed application form (PDF format)
2. 2 Reference Letters
3. 2 Essay Prompts responses
4. Income eligibility documentation

Application Instructions:

1. Click "Apply Now" to access the application
2. Download the attached PDF
3. Complete the application offline (do not fill out in browser as it will not save)
4. Submit completed application

Important Notes:

• Application must be downloaded and completed as PDF
• Do not attempt to fill out application in web browser
• Application will not save if completed online

Support:
Questions? Contact UPO using their intake form on the website or call 202-238-4600