Apply now for the Ron Brown Scholarship — a highly funded $40,000 U.S. award supporting African-American high school seniors who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and community commitment. Deadline: December 1, 2025.
About the Ron Brown Scholarship
The Ron Brown Scholarship is one of the most prestigious and highly funded undergraduate awards in the United States for African-American high school seniors. Established to honor Ronald H. Brown, the first African-American U.S. Secretary of Commerce, the program recognizes students who combine exceptional academic achievement with leadership, service, and a commitment to positive social impact.
Since its creation, the Ron Brown Scholarship Program has provided support to hundreds of outstanding students across the United States. Each scholar receives up to $40,000 in total funding (typically $10,000 per year for four years) to pursue undergraduate studies at an accredited U.S. college or university.
In addition to financial support, scholars become part of the Ron Brown Leaders Network, a dynamic community offering mentorship, leadership development, and professional growth opportunities. This network connects students and alumni who share a passion for education, innovation, and public service — extending far beyond the financial aspect of the scholarship itself.
To learn more about the program’s mission and history, visit the official website: Ron Brown Scholar Program.
Eligibility Requirements
The Ron Brown Scholarship is designed to empower African-American students with strong academic and leadership potential. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Ethnicity: Identify as Black or African-American.
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Citizenship: Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
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Education level: Be a high school senior at the time of application.
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College plans: Plan to enroll full-time at an accredited four-year U.S. college or university.
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Academic record: Demonstrate outstanding academic performance and intellectual curiosity.
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Leadership and service: Exhibit leadership potential and a record of community involvement or volunteerism.
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Financial need: Show evidence of financial need to pursue higher education.
The selection committee looks for students who embody Ronald H. Brown’s legacy of leadership, integrity, and public service — individuals who are not only scholars but also future changemakers.
Award Details and Benefits
Recipients of the Ron Brown Scholarship gain access to far more than just financial aid. The award offers a comprehensive support system that includes academic, personal, and professional resources to help scholars thrive during college and beyond.
Financial Support
Each scholar receives up to $40,000, disbursed over four years. Funds may be used for tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other educational expenses.
Mentorship and Networking
Scholars join the Ron Brown Leaders Network, which provides mentoring from accomplished professionals, leadership training, and connections to internships and career opportunities.
Leadership Development
The program invests in building leadership capacity through annual gatherings, workshops, and access to development opportunities designed to empower scholars to lead in their communities and chosen careers.
Community Impact
Ron Brown Scholars are encouraged to uphold a lifelong commitment to service and social responsibility, contributing to communities nationwide.
Together, these benefits make the Ron Brown Scholarship one of the most valuable undergraduate opportunities for African-American students aspiring to combine education with purpose.
Application Process
The Ron Brown Scholarship application is straightforward and must be completed online through the official portal.
Step 1: Begin Your Application
Applicants should start by visiting the Ron Brown Scholar Program application page to create or continue their application. The platform allows users to save progress and return later.
Step 2: Prepare Required Materials
Applicants must submit:
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High school transcripts;
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Two letters of recommendation;
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Two personal essays (approximately 500 words each);
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Proof of citizenship or permanent residency;
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A record of extracurricular and community involvement.
Step 3: Submit Before the Deadline
All materials must be submitted before the official deadline. Early submissions are highly encouraged to avoid technical issues or last-minute errors.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
Apply here: https://www.ronbrown.org/ron-brown-scholarship/
Why Apply
The Ron Brown Scholarship provides more than financial aid — it offers a platform for young African-American leaders to pursue higher education, gain mentorship from accomplished professionals, and engage in a network dedicated to public service and social progress.
Past scholars have attended top universities such as Harvard, Stanford, Yale, and Howard, and have gone on to become leaders in business, public policy, law, science, and the arts. The program’s emphasis on leadership, integrity, and service continues to make it a transformative opportunity for ambitious students from diverse backgrounds.
By applying for the Ron Brown Scholarship, students take the first step toward joining a distinguished legacy of scholars who lead with purpose and make a lasting difference in their communities and beyond.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
Apply Now: Ron Brown Scholar Program
For more international career opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth.
