The HACER Scholarships by the American Commitment to Educational Resources (HACER) Scholarship Program is one of the biggest and most respected scholarship initiatives in the country whose aim is to support Hispanic students.
Launched by McDonald’s back in 1985, the HACER Scholarship has disbursed over $31 million to more than 17,000 Hispanic students throughout the United States, helping them pursue their dreams of obtaining a higher education.
HACER Scholarship: Key Program Details
Award Amounts and Disbursement
The HACER Scholarship program provides generous financial support through a tiered award system:
- National HACER Scholarships: $100,000 ($25,000 a year for four years)
- Regional HACER Scholarships: $5,000 to $20,000
- Local HACER Scholarships: $1,000 to $5,000
The funds are usually sent straight to the student’s college or university, helping to cover tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses.
Eligibility Requirements for HACER Scholarship Applicants
If you want to qualify for the HACER Scholarship, then you must meet these essential criteria:
- Must have Hispanic heritage (at least one parent of Hispanic descent)
- Be a high school senior whose plan is to attend an accredited institution
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Show a demonstrated financial need
- Be a legal resident of the U.S
- Plan to enroll in an accredited two-year or four-year college or university
- Reside in a participating HACER Scholarship region
- Submit a complete application by the designated deadline
HACER National Scholarship vs. Regional Scholarships
National HACER Scholarship Program
The National HACER Scholarship is the pinnacle of this program:
- Award: $100,000 ($25,000 each year for four years)
- Selection Process: Highly competitive, which includes additional interviews
- Recipient Numbers: Generally, 5-7 national scholarships are awarded each year
- Requirements: Exceptional academic performance, leadership skills, community involvement, and compelling personal stories of hardship
Regional HACER Scholarship Opportunities
Regional HACER Scholarships are available in particular geographic areas:
- Award Range: $5,000 to $20,000
- Coverage Areas: Offered in various McDonald’s regions throughout the U.S.
- Selection Factors: Academic success, financial need, and community engagement
- Application Process: Often acts as the first step for consideration for the National HACER Scholarship
The HACER Scholarship Application Process
Application Timeline and Important Dates
The HACER Scholarship follows a particular yearly timeline:
- Application Opening: October 5-7 every year
- Application Deadline: Early February (exact date can change by year)
- Regional Winner Announcements: April-May
- National Finalist Interviews: May
- National Winner Announcements: June
- Fund Disbursement: August-September
Required Documentation for HACER Scholarships Applications
If you want to submit a complete HACER Scholarship application, you’ll need:
- Personal Information Form: Basic biographical and contact details
- Academic Records: Your official high school transcripts
- Financial Documentation: FAFSA or any verification of financial need
- Personal Statement: An essay discussing your educational goals, Hispanic heritage, and the challenges you’ve overcome
- Letters of Recommendation: Usually 1-3 letters from teachers, counselors, or community leaders
- Proof of Hispanic Heritage: Documents confirming your eligibility
- College Acceptance Letters: Proof of admission to qualifying institutions (which can be submitted later)
HACER Scholarship Essay Tips
The personal statement is a key part of your HACER application:
- Authenticity: Make sure you share real stories about your Hispanic heritage and identity
- Challenges and Resilience: Talk about the obstacles you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from them
- Educational Goals: Clearly outline your academic and career dreams
- Community Impact: Describe how you plan to contribute to the Hispanic community
- Specificity: Give concrete examples instead of just general statements
- Structure: Organize your essay well, including an introduction, body, and conclusion
- Proofreading: Check for grammar and spelling errors to ensure your writing is polished
Maximizing Your Chances for the HACER Scholarship
Academic Excellence Strategies
If you want to increase your chances for the HACER Scholarship, focusing on strong academics is key:
- Maintain or Improve GPA: Strive for a GPA that far exceeds the minimum requirement of 3.0.
- Rigorous Coursework: Enroll in AP, IB, or honors classes whenever it’s possible
- Standardized Testing: Although this is optional, a solid set of SAT or ACT scores can boost your application
- Academic Awards: Make sure you showcase any academic recognitions or awards you’ve received
Community Involvement and Leadership
The HACER Scholarship values students who show a genuine commitment to their communities:
- Hispanic Community Service: Get involved with organizations dedicated to supporting Hispanic communities
- Leadership Roles: Go for roles that allow you to take on responsibilities in school or community activities
- Long-term Commitment: Aim for sustained involvement rather than just one-off activities
- Initiative: Start your own service projects that effectively address needs in your community
- Cultural Advocacy: Join events that recognize and promote Hispanic culture and heritage
Financial Need Documentation
It’s important for you to clearly demonstrate your financial need:
- Complete FAFSA Early: Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid as soon as you can
- Accurate Information: Double-check that all your financial information is correct and can be verified
- Additional Context: Use your personal statement to explain any unique financial situations you might have
- Other Aid Applications: Keep track of any other scholarships or financial aid applications you’ve submitted
Stories of HACER Scholarships Recipients
Although HACER respects privacy, many HACER Scholarship recipients have opened up about how the program has reshaped their educational journeys:
- They include first-generation college students aiming for degrees in fields like medicine, engineering, business, and education
- Some have faced financial hardships but have managed to attend prestigious universities
- Many recipients have gone on to establish programs that support other Hispanic students
- There are scholars who have returned to their communities, contributing as professionals and mentors
Frequently Asked Questions About the HACER Scholarship
Can DACA recipients apply for the HACER Scholarship?
Absolutely! Students who hold DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status can apply for the HACER Scholarship as long as they meet all other eligibility requirements.
Is the HACER Scholarship renewable?
Yes, the National HACER Scholarship can be renewed for up to four years, provided the recipients continue to make satisfactory academic progress. However, regional and local HACER Scholarships are usually awarded as one-time grants.
Do I need to work at McDonald’s to qualify?
Not at all! You don’t have to be employed by McDonald’s to be eligible for the HACER Scholarship. This program welcomes all qualified Hispanic students, regardless of whether they work at McDonald’s or not.
Can graduate students apply for HACER Scholarships?
Unfortunately, no. The HACER Scholarship Program is tailored specifically for high school seniors who are entering their first year of undergraduate studies.
What if my parents are from different Hispanic countries?
Students with heritage from any Spanish-speaking country are eligible for the HACER Scholarship. It doesn’t matter if your parents come from different Hispanic countries—a diverse background won’t affect your eligibility.
Additional Hispanic Scholarship Opportunities
If you’re considering the HACER Scholarship, you might also want to look into these additional programs:
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF): Provides a variety of scholarships for Hispanic students
- TheDream.US: Scholarships specificallycraeted forDREAMers and DACA recipients
- Prospanica Scholarship Program: Supports Hispanic students who are chasing business degrees
- Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Scholarship: Aids in leadership development
- National Hispanic Business Association Scholarship: Focused on students entering business fields
How to Prepare Early for the HACER Scholarship
For High School Freshmen and Sophomores
It’s never too early to start preparing for HACER eligibility. Look at these tips:
- Focus on Academic Excellence: Work on building a strong GPA from your very first semester
- Develop Leadership Skills: Get involved in clubs and organizations that spark your interest
- Begin Community Service: Go into volunteering and get involved in your community
- Explore Hispanic Heritage: Embrace your cultural roots and connect with those around you
- Research Colleges: Find the schools that match your aspirations and support Hispanic students
For High School Juniors
As the application period gets closer, keep these tips in mind:
- Maintain Academic Performance Keep your GPA on point by taking challenging classes
- Take Leadership Positions: Step up and take on responsibilities in your activities
- Research Previous Recipients: Check out what made successful applicants stand out
- Prepare for Essay Writing: Start reflecting on your unique personal story
- Connect with Mentors: Look for advisors who can help walk you through the application process
Conclusion: The Impact of the HACER Scholarships
The HACER Scholarship Program is truly a game changer for Hispanic students who face educational challenges. HACER has helped countless Hispanic young adults break down barriers and chase their higher education dreams through provision of significant financial support.
If you’re thinking about applying, the HACER Scholarship is more than just a financial boost; it’s a celebration of accomplishments, an affirmation of your potential, and a chance to join a supportive community of successful Hispanic scholars. You can set yourself up to be a top contender for this esteemed scholarship opportunity by careful preparation, engaging personal narratives, and a strong commitment to both academic excellence and community service.
Last updated: March 2025