WCEJ Thornton Foundation Low-Income Scholarship

Everyone deserves an opportunity to receive a high-quality education, but unfortunately, socioeconomic status is a common barrier limiting the educational opportunities of students across the country.

Only 14% of low-income students receive a bachelor’s degree within 8 years of graduating from high school. This is staggeringly low. 

While a college education can be a great way for low-income students to escape the cycle of poverty, many of these students do not take this path. They often face difficult choices – Do I get a job and support my family, or do I take out large loans and further my education? These are tough choices to make at a young age.  

As one small way to make higher education more accessible to low-income students, fifteen $1000 WCEJ Thornton Foundation Low-Income Scholarships will be awarded to students in any field of study who have an exemplary academic record, but are in need of financial assistance to pursue their dreams in higher education. 

To apply, you must be planning to be enrolled in continuing education in August 2023. This can include having your GED, being a graduating high school senior, someone returning to school or someone already enrolled in a post-secondary education program. Please write about your greatest achievement, what it taught you about yourself, and what you hope to achieve in the future.