FAQs

Do I have to be a New York City resident to apply?

Yes, at this time our scholarship is only open to students graduating from a high school in the five boroughs of New York City.

Do I have to be in high school to qualify?

Yes, the Ascend Educational Fund scholarship is only open to graduating high school seniors.

I am attending a community college after I graduate, can I apply?

Yes, as long as you meet the other eligibility criteria.

I did not take the SAT or ACT, can I still apply?

Yes. If your college does not require you to take the SAT or ACT, you are not required to submit a score report.

What is Ascend Educational Fund’s College Board code?

Ascend Educational Fund does not have one.  Please make a copy of your score report in case you are selected as a finalist.

I was born in the United States, and only one of my parents is an immigrant.  Can I apply for the Ascend Educational Fund Scholarship?

No. The Ascend Educational Fund is open only to immigrants (born outside the United States) and children of two immigrants.

I was born in Puerto Rico, or both my parents were born in Puerto Rico.  Can I apply for the Ascend Educational Fund Scholarship?

No. Because Puerto Ricans are U.S. Citizens, they are not considered immigrants. 

I am not a U.S. Citizen or permanent resident.  I do not have a Social Security number.  Can I apply for Ascend Educational Fund Scholarship?

Yes, as long as you meet the other eligibility criteria. The  scholarship is open to all immigrant students, regardless of ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status.

How will finalists be judged?

Scholarship recipients are selected based on qualities traditionally valued and demonstrated by the immigrant community including hard work, resourcefulness, perseverance in the face of adversity, academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to one’s community.

Is Ascend affiliated with any political party?

No.  We are not a political organization or affiliated with any political party.  We just want to make sure all students have the same opportunities.

Who do I contact if my permanent address on the application has changed since I submitted my application?

If your permanent address changes, you should notify the Ascend Scholarship Committee at scholarship@ascendfundny.org

Will notification letters be sent to all applicants whether selected or not?

No. Notification letters will only be sent to finalists selected for interviews and finalists that are awarded the Ascend scholarship.

What is the Ascend Application Process? 

The application process for the Ascend scholarship is a two-part effort: 1) a student application is completed and submitted by the student and 2) recommendation letters must submitted by any adult who is familiar with the student’s community service and leadership activities, such as a teacher, counselor, supervisor at work or a community leader.

Who qualifies as a Recommender?

Recommenders can be any adult who is familiar with the student’s community service and leadership activities, such as supervisor at work or a community leader.

Can community organization representatives serve as a Recommender?

Yes, community organization representatives are encouraged to act as Recommenders. However, members of the applicant’s immediate or extended family may not serve as a Recommender.

How is are Scholarship recipients selected?

Eligible individuals who have submitted complete application packages by the deadline will be considered for the Ascend scholarship. Competition for the scholarship award is expected to be substantial. Therefore, Recommenders should make every effort to provide a complete picture of each Nominee’s qualifications. The Ascend Scholarship selection process requires independent readers to assess nominees based on qualities traditionally valued and demonstrated by the immigrant community including hard work, resourcefulness, perseverance in the face of adversity, academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to one’s community.

How is a Ascend award determined?

Individuals selected as Ascend Scholarship will receive funds in an amount to be determined by Ascend based on financial need. The award will be based on the cost of tuition, fees, books, and living expenses for the academic year as well as the availability of grants and other scholarships reported on the submitted financial aid award letter. The scholarship, for the undergraduate award, may be renewed annually based on satisfactory academic progress, full-time status, and the timely submission of required documents. 

Whom may I contact if I have further questions?

You may contact us at info@ascendfundny.org

Can I use the Ascend scholarship at any college or university?

The Ascend scholarship can be used at any U.S. accredited college or university of your choice.