Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships
Scholarship FAQs
Applying for scholarships can raise a lot of questions—so we’ve pulled together answers to some of the most common ones we hear. Whether you’re a high school senior, adult learner, or current college student, this FAQ is here to guide you every step of the way. If your question isn’t answered below, don’t hesitate to reach out!
As always, if you have a question that you can't fin d the answer for feel free to reach out to Kasey Rouse, Director of Scholarships & Youth Programs. Her email is included in all application communications, or you can call the Foundation office at 513-863-1717.
When is the deadline to apply?
Deadlines vary depending on the type of scholarship. For graduating high school seniors, the deadline is typically in early January. For students currently in college, it’s usually in early June.
All scholarship deadlines are firm. Late applications are not accepted.
What do I do if I have a renewable scholarship?
If you received a renewable scholarship as a high school senior, you must renew it each year—typically by mid-June. You’ll need to:
- Submit a 500+ word essay describing your college year
- Have your university send your official transcript to the Foundation (by mail or electronically)
- Complete the renewal process and submit all required information in your Foundation Scholarship Account
Note: Students who received a renewable scholarship as a high school senior are not eligible to apply for additional Foundation scholarships.
How will I receive my scholarship payment?
Scholarships are paid in two installments per year—one for each semester—directly to the school you are attending. Payments typically go out at the start of each traditional fall and spring semester.
When are scholarship checks sent to the school?
Payments are generally sent near the beginning of the traditional fall and spring semesters.
Can I apply for a specific scholarship?
No. We use a unified scholarship application for each process. That means one application puts you in the pool for every scholarship you’re eligible for. For high school seniors, that could be more than 300 opportunities!
When will I find out if I am being offered a scholarship?
Graduating high school seniors will be notified by email by the end of April. For all other applicants, decisions are typically shared within two to three months after the application deadline or submission date for rolling applications.
Can I apply after the deadline?
No.
All deadlines are firm. This ensures our all-volunteer scholarship review committee has the time needed to carefully review and rank every application.
What schools can apply?
For graduating high school seniors, applications are open to any student attending a high school in Butler County, Ohio—with a special focus on students from:
- Hamilton High School
- Stephen T. Badin High School
- Ross High School
- New Miami High School
- Lakota East & West High Schools
- Talawanda High School
- Edgewood High School
- Fairfield High School
Students currently in college must have graduated from one of the above focus schools. Scholarships for adult learners and recent graduates are currently limited to residents of Hamilton.
I attend Butler Tech. Can I apply for a Scholarship?
Yes! Students enrolled in Butler Tech programs are eligible to apply. When completing your application, be sure to select “Butler Tech” first. You’ll then have the option to also select your school of origin.
What if I submitted my application but changed my school or major?
Please contact Kasey Rouse, Director of Scholarships & Youth Programs, as soon as possible. Her email is included in all application communications, or you can call the Foundation office at 513-863-1717.
Do I have to attend the scholarship program & reception?
Yes. If you are a graduating high school senior. Attendance at our May Scholarship Reception and Program is mandatory for awardees. If you cannot attend, you must contact Kasey Rouse in advance. Missing the event without prior approval may result in loss of the scholarship.
Note: This requirement does not apply to scholarship recipients in other categories.
Can I defer my scholarship if I'm not attending college this year or semester?
In most cases, yes. Students who need to take time off—for reasons like health, travel, family responsibilities, or waiting for program admission—can usually defer their scholarship. Please contact Kasey Rouse with your request. Her email is included in all application communications, or you can call the Foundation office at 513-863-1717.
I was awarded a scholarship but I'm changing my major or school. What should I do?
Depending on the scholarship awarded, it may or may not transfer with your new plans. We do our best to support students, but changes may affect your eligibility. Contact Kasey Rouse with your updated information as soon as possible to discuss your options. Her email is included in all application communications, or you can call the Foundation office at 513-863-1717.
