Scholarships and grants don’t only come from schools – many organizations host their own programs to help students afford their college education. This includes Rotary! The global club offers awards, fellowships, and more for individuals in need of financial assistance. Keep reading to discover how you can apply for a Rotary scholarship, too.
What is Rotary?
Rotary, often called Rotary Club, is a collection of over 46,000 clubs worldwide that aim to “provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.” With more than 1.4 million members, the club partners with communities and organizations in their area while also delivering service projects.
Every Rotary Club is actually different since every community is different. And the organization also has Rotaract clubs for emerging leaders and Interact clubs for kids between the ages of 12 and 18.
What is the Rotary Scholarship? And How Can You Find It?
The Rotary Scholarship isn’t just one award. Many chapters in the United States offer their own undergraduate awards for students through the club and district. Each has its own requirements for the scholarship, so it’s important to find your local Rotary club(s) to see what’s available to you and what you’ll need to apply!
The Rotary Foundation does, however, offer scholarships for college graduates and professionals that are interested in studying peace and conflict resolution. Only six schools globally participate in the program and applications are due in May.
How To Find a Local Rotary Chapter?
Thankfully, it’s easy to find your local Rotary chapter! You can head straight to their website (right here) to find a club that meets your location and your interests.
Should You Join the Rotary Club?
There is really no downside to joining a Rotary club, so if you have the time, you absolutely should! It looks amazing on a college application and resumes as it demonstrates your passion, interest in the community, and leadership skills.
Other benefits include
- Participation in service programs right in your community
- Professional networking and life-long friendships
- Ability to attend parties and social activities run through the clubs
- Leadership, public speaking, and business skills are developed
While Rotary doesn’t have a single scholarship program for undergraduates, you should absolutely look into your local club to see if they have one available. And don’t give up if you aren’t a member! It’s easy to join, and some awards may not even require you to sign up. Keep in mind that every scholarship program will be different amongst the different clubs – they could have very different deadlines and requirements. Don’t assume they’re all the same or you could miss out!
Scholarship hunting takes time – did you know there’s an easier way? Scholarship search databases help you identify the best awards for you. Using College Raptor’s Scholarship Search Tool you can simply enter your information to get details on awards you qualify for. Get started for free here!
| Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
5.50%-16.12%* Variable
3.99%-15.61%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
 |
5.54% - 15.70% Variable
3.99% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
 |
4.63% - 17.99% Variable
3.49% - 17.99% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
 |
6.00% - 13.75% Variable
3.99% - 13.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
 |
5.66% - 14.72% Variable
3.69% - 14.56% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
 |
3.70% - 8.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
 |
5.62% - 16.85% Variable
3.69% - 16.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
 |
5.00% - 14.22% Variable
3.69% - 14.22% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |
