Heisman High School Scholarship Introduction
The Heisman High School Scholarship is an exceptional opportunity for high-performing high school students who excel both academically and athletically. Established in 1994 through a partnership between Wendy’s and The Heisman Trophy Trust, the scholarship aims to recognize outstanding scholar-athletes in grades 9-11 who demonstrate exceptional leadership and serve as role models in their schools and communities.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Heisman High School Scholarship, applicants must meet several criteria related to academics, athletics, and leadership.
Academic Achievement
Applicants are expected to show a high level of academic achievement to qualify for the scholarship. Specifically, students must maintain a minimum weighted grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 (B average) or above throughout high school. Maintaining excellence in the classroom is a central requirement.
Athletic Participation
In addition to success in academics, applicants must have participated in an officially recognized sport during grades 9, 10, or 11. Qualifying sports include those recognized by the International Olympic Committee for the Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as sports sanctioned by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
Demonstrating commitment to athletic endeavors, whether as an individual competitor or valued team player, is essential.
How To Apply Heisman High School Scholarship
Step 1: Check that you meet the eligibility criteria:
- You must have at least a B grade average
- You must participate in an Olympic-recognized sport at school
- You should be a leader and role model at school
Step 2: Ask a teacher, counselor, or administrator at your school to review your application. Get their full name and email address to enter later.
Step 3: Go to heismanscholarship.com and click on “Apply Now.” Complete the eligibility quiz.
Step 4: Register for an account using your email address and creating a password.
Step 5: Begin filling out the online application – you’ll provide information on your academic achievements, athletic involvement, leadership, and community service.
Step 6: Submit a 500-word essay on a leadership experience that made a difference. Explain your objectives, obstacles, actions, and results.
Step 7: Add your school reviewer’s name and email address where prompted.
Step 8: Review all parts of your application before submitting.
Step 9: Submit your completed application by the October 17, 2023 3 pm PT deadline.
Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions at any part of the process! I’m happy to provide more guidance as you work on applying.
Key Benefits
Beyond the direct financial awards, the Heisman High School Scholarship provides several invaluable benefits:
Prestigious Recognition
As one of the most respected honors in high school sports, being named a State Winner, National Finalist, or National Winner provides a mark of distinction that demonstrates well-rounded excellence in and out of the classroom. Such prestigious recognition can open doors to appealing educational and career opportunities.
Networking and Mentorship
In addition to the scholarship funds, winners are invited to attend the annual Heisman Trophy weekend and other events where they can network with and learn from respected athletes, leaders, coaches, and professionals. These connections can help propel future success.
FAQs
Q1. What do sports count for eligibility?
Any sport recognized by the International Olympic Committee for the Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games or sponsored by the National Federation of State High School Associations qualifies. This covers most major high school sports.
Q2. What are the selection criteria?
Selections are based on athletic excellence, academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Exceptional achievement in all areas is required.
Q3. What does the application process involve?
The online application captures academics, athletics, leadership, community service, endorsements, and short essays. Official transcripts and test scores are also required.
Q4. What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is October 17 at 3 pm PT/6 pm ET each year. This is a firm deadline, with no exceptions.
Q5. What are the scholarship amounts?
100 State Winners each receive a $1,000 college scholarship. 12 National Finalists get a $2,000 scholarship, while 2 National Winners each receive a $10,000 scholarship.
Conclusion
Heisman High School Scholarship is an exceptional program that recognizes outstanding high school scholar-athletes each year. Established in 1994 through a Wendy’s and Heisman Trophy Trust partnership, the program awards college scholarships to students who demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics, leadership, and community involvement.
To be eligible, applicants must have at least a 3.0 weighted GPA and have participated in recognized sports during grades 9-11. A complete application profiling achievements is required, with a deadline of October 17th annually.