Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarship by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA), recognized as the first historically African American Greek-lettered sorority.
Founded back in 1908 at Howard University, AKA has consistently shown its commitment to promoting educational progress through various scholarship programs at both national and local scales.
National Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarship Programs
Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF)
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation is the sorority’s main scholarship body, proudly distributing over $500,000 each year to deserving students.
Merit Scholarships
- Award Amounts: Ranges from $1,000-$5,000
- Eligibility: Open to full-time sophomores, juniors, seniors, or graduate students
- Requirements: Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and show commitment to community
- Application Period: January 15 to April 15 each year
Need-Based Scholarships
- Award Amounts: Ranges from $1,000-$5,000
- Eligibility: Available for full-time undergraduate or graduate students
- Requirements: Must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate financial need
- Application Period: January 15 to April 15 each year
Youth Partners Accessing Capital (Youth PAC)
- Purpose: Aimed at supporting high school students as they transition to college
- Award Amounts: Ranges from $500-$2,000
- Eligibility: Open to high school seniors who have received college acceptance
- Focus Areas: Business, finance, and entrepreneurship
Regional and Local Chapter Scholarships
Alongside national programs, many of the more than 1,000 AKA chapters across the nation provide their own scholarship opportunities:
- Regional Scholarships: Offered to students within specific geographical locations
- Chapter-Specific Awards: Focused on meeting the needs and priorities of the local community
- Award Amounts: Usually between $500 to $3,000
- Application Deadlines: Differ by chapter but typically fall between January and May
Who Can Apply for Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarship?
There’s a common myth suggesting that AKA scholarships are only for sorority members or exclusively for African American women. The truth is, many AKA scholarship programs welcome applications from:
- Students regardless of genders
- Individuals from various racial and ethnic backgrounds
- Those studying different fields
- Both undergraduates and graduates
That being said, it’s important to know that eligibility requirements can vary by program. Some scholarships are specifically aimed at:
- Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha
- Female students
- African American students
- Those pursuing certain majors
- Residents of specific geographic locations
Application Requirements for Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarships
While each program has its own set of requirements, most AKA scholarship applications will ask for:
- Completed application form (either online or paper, depending on the program)
- Official academic transcriptsthat meet minimum GPA standards
- Personal essay or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or community leaders
- Documentation of community service or involvement in extracurricular activities
- Financial information (if applying for need-based scholarships)
- Proof of enrollment or acceptance into college
Key Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarship Application Tips
Research Thoroughly
Take the time to explore both national EAF scholarships and those offered by local chapters in your area. Each program boasts unique requirements and focuses.
Highlight Community Service
The AKA organization highly values service. So, be sure to highlight your volunteer experiences, especially those that resonate with AKA’s mission in areas like education, health, family, economics, and the arts.
Address the Sorority’s Values
As you write your essays, think about how your personal goals align with AKA’s core values of sisterhood, scholarship, and service to humanity.
Meet All Deadlines
While national scholarship deadlines usually fall around April, local chapter deadlines can differ. Keep track of application timelines by creating a calendar.
Prepare Strong Recommendations
When you’re preparing to write strong recommendations, it’s vital to choose recommenders who can really highlight your unique academic achievements, leadership skills, and commitment to service.
Notable AKA Scholarship Success Stories
While the names of recipients are often kept private, AKA scholarship programs have paved the way for students who have transformed into:
- Healthcare professionals dedicated to serving underrepresented communities
- Educational leaders and advocates for policy change
- STEM innovators and researcherspushing boundaries
- Business entrepreneurs with a focus on economic growth
- Public service and non-profit leadersmaking a difference in communities
Finding and Applying for Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarships
National Scholarship Resources
- AKA Educational Advancement Foundation: Check out their official website for a wealth of information on national scholarship opportunities
- HBCU Connect: This site frequently features listings for AKA scholarships
- United Negro College Fund: They partner with AKA for various scholarship programs
Local Chapter Resources
- Chapter Websites: Many local chapters host websites where you can find info about scholarships
- College Financial Aid Offices: These offices often have details about scholarships offered by local AKA chapters
- Community Organizations: Groups like churches, community centers, and youth organizations may provide information about local AKA scholarship opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be an AKA member to receive a scholarship?
The majority of AKA scholarships available through the Educational Advancement Foundation welcome non-members, although some specific programs might be reserved for sorority members.
Are AKA scholarships only for women?
While certain AKA scholarships are specifically for women, many programs are inclusive and open to students of all genders.
Can international students apply?
Some AKA scholarships are available to international students, though eligibility varies by program. Check specific requirements for each scholarship opportunity.
Are there AKA scholarships for graduate students?
Yes, Alpha Kappa Alpha has a range of scholarship programs designed specifically for those pursuing advanced degrees like master’s and doctoral programs.
Can I receive an AKA scholarship more than once?
Yes, you can! There are indeed some AKA scholarships available for international students, but just remember that eligibility criteria can vary from one program to another. So, it’s a good idea to look over the specific requirements for each scholarship you’re interested in.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- January: Many application windows open
- February-March: Most local chapter application deadlines
- April 15: Typical deadline for national EAF scholarships
- May-June: Notifications for scholarship recipients
- August-September: Funds usually disbursed for fall semester
Conclusion
Alpha Kappa Alpha scholarships offer fantastic opportunities for academic funding, especially for students dedicated to service and excellence. When you familiarize yourself with the different programs at both national and local levels, prepare standout applications that show your community involvement, and pay close attention to requirements and deadlines, you’ll be well-positioned to take advantage of the incredible support that AKA provides to help you achieve your educational ambitions.
For the latest info, be sure to check out the Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation website or reach out to your local AKA chapters.