Foresters Financial has raised the value of individual awards for its Competitive Scholarship program. Set to splurge over $1.5 million on the program, the organization says applicants with volunteering experience stand a higher selection chance.
Foresters Financial increases Competitive Scholarship value
With applications for the 2026-207 Competitive Scholarship program underway, Foresters Financial has confirmed an increased investment. This year, the member-based life insurance provider will award the scholarships to more individuals while increasing the value of individual awards.
Right off the bat, scholarship awardees in North America will receive $2,500, a noticeable increase from last year’s $2,000 price. Meanwhile, UK recipients will receive £1,250 instead of £1,000.
While Foresters gave out $1.4 million in scholarships to 520 students, the organization told Charity Journal that this year’s grants will cover 600 students. In a statement, the company noted the expansion will provide improved financial support for post-secondary education of its members and their families.
“For the 2026/27 Scholarship year, the total number of awards available are 600 across North America and the UK, an increase of 80 over the last year,” said Melanie Gaskin, Senior Communications Manager at Foresters Financial.
Globally, tuition fees and living costs are outpacing scholarship sizes, forcing several organizations to increase their grants. grant sizes. Since the launch, the organization has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships to students across the US, Canada, and the UK.
“Education can open doors to opportunity, and we are proud to enhance our scholarship program to continue to help students pursue their goals while continuing to strengthen their communities,” said René Zanin, Chief Legal, Administrative and Membership Officer at Foresters.
A focus on community service
A glance at the official announcement reveals that Foresters Financial prioritizes community service over academic performance.
In an interview with Charity Journal, Foresters disclosed that applicants with volunteering experience in projects supporting family well-being, health, and wellness, and public space cleanup will stand a higher chance. Furthermore, applicants with leadership roles in their community service have an additional advantage.
All new applicants must complete at least 50 volunteer hours, while returning scholarship applicants must complete at least 15 volunteer hours.
On the educational side of things, new applicants in the US and Canada must have a minimum GPA of 3.2 (80% average). Meanwhile, returning applicants must maintain a minimum module mark of 50-55 or its institutional equivalent.
To maintain impartiality, International Scholarship and Tuition Services (ISTS), a third-party entity, will administer the grants, which are expected to be a competitive affair.