The Ron Brown Scholar Program awards 20 four-year scholarships of $10,000 per year ($40,000 total) to Black/African American high school seniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and show academic excellence, leadership, community service, and financial need, usable at any accredited four-year U.S. college for any major. No minimum GPA is published and the process is test-optional (no SAT/ACT required). The application requires three essays (about 500 words each) and two recommendation letters — one from a school official (counselor/teacher/principal), one from an outside mentor, employer, or coach (not a family member). Roughly 5,000 students compete annually; top non-selected applicants can receive a 'Ron Brown Captain' designation with access to professional development. For the 2027 cycle, the application is due December 1, with counselor recommendation letters due December 15.
Eligibility
DemographicsFor Black/African American students; U.S. citizen or permanent resident; demonstrated financial need is a factor; test-optional (no SAT/ACT required); current high school seniors only, college students ineligible.
Applying
$10,000 per year for 4 years ($40,000 total), renewable.