Scholarships
for Barry County Students and Adult Learners
The Barry Community Foundation offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to help students pursue their educational goals. Through one streamlined application, students can be considered for scholarships that match their eligibility and qualifications.
Explore the scholarships below to learn more about each opportunity.
All Scholarships
Barry Community Foundation offers scholarships for eligible students from Barry County and surrounding West Michigan communities. Opportunities are available for graduating high school seniors, high school graduates, current college students, adult learners, and some dependents of employees at participating local businesses.
Scholarship requirements vary by fund. Each opportunity may have different eligibility guidelines related to school district, academic history, career goals, financial need, field of study, employer connection, or community involvement.
By School District
Explore scholarships available through eight school districts, including Barry County Homeschool, Delton Kellogg, Hastings, Lakewood, Maple Valley, Martin, Thornapple Kellogg, and Wayland.
High School Seniors or Graduates
Log into the online application and complete the current year scholarship application. You will need the following information to complete your online application.
- Your cumulative GPA
- A list of your academic or extracurricular activities since ninth grade
- Your SAT score
- Write three narratives (specific directions in the application)
- Up to four letters of recommendation
The application is open from December 1 to February 20.
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by selecting the button below.
Adult Students
Log in to the online application and complete the adult student scholarship application. You will need the following information to complete your online application.
- Your employment history
- Your educational history
- Your aspirations for education, career path, and the future
The application for adult students is open year-round.
*To complete the Adult Application, please contact Annie Hall using the contact information below.
Region-Wide Scholarships
Barry Community Foundation works to expand scholarship opportunities for students not only in Barry County, but throughout West Michigan. Explore region-wide scholarships to see whether you may qualify based on your educational plans or location.
Employer-Related
The Steve Paas Memorial Scholarship is for children of full-time employees of Pepsi Beverages Company, located at 3070 Kraft Ave. If a parent or guardian works for Pepsi Beverages Company, contact the Barry Community Foundation to determine whether you may be eligible.
Explore Available Scholarships
Scholarships are available through Barry Community Foundation, its geographic affiliates, and charitable funds created by donors who want to support education. Review available opportunities to learn which scholarships may fit your school district, educational plans, career interests, or personal circumstances.
How to Apply for a Scholarship
The application process depends on whether you are a high school senior, high school graduate, current college student, or adult learner. Review the guidance and start your application using the button below.
FAFSA Information
Barry Community Foundation encourages students and families to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA, as part of the financial aid process.
High School Seniors and Graduates
Students applying through the annual scholarship application should be prepared to provide:
- Cumulative GPA
- A list of academic and extracurricular activities since ninth grade
- SAT score
- Three written narratives, following the application instructions
- Up to four letters of recommendation
Scholarships for Adult Students
Adult student scholarships may be available for people who have typically been out of high school for at least two years, have experienced a gap in post-secondary education, or are returning to school to pursue a new educational or career goal.
Adult student opportunities may support college coursework, technical programs, career training, or other qualifying education paths.
What Adult Students May Need to Apply
Adult student applicants should be prepared to share:
- Employment history
- Educational history
- Educational and career goals
- Aspirations for the future
Adult Student Application Message
Adult student scholarship applications are available year-round. Contact Barry Community Foundation for assistance with the adult student application process.
Apply for a Scholarship in Three Steps
1
Explore Your Options
Use the scholarship directory, school district listings, and student pathways to find opportunities that may fit your background and educational plans.
2
Review Eligibility and Requirements
Read the full scholarship details before applying. Requirements vary by fund and may include academic information, career interests, school district, financial need, activities, or employer affiliation.
3
Submit Your Application
Complete your application through the Barry Community Foundation scholarship portal before the listed deadline. Be sure to include all required documents and responses.
Need Help Finding the Right Scholarship?
Choosing the right scholarship can feel overwhelming. Barry Community Foundation can help students, families, and adult learners understand available opportunities, find application guidance, and take the next step.
Scholarship Page Contact Us Form
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Scholarship Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Barry Community Foundation scholarships?
Scholarships may be available to graduating high school seniors, high school graduates, current college students, and adult learners. Eligibility varies by scholarship fund, so students should review individual requirements before applying.
When can I apply for scholarships?
The annual scholarship application period is open from December 1 through February 20. Adult student scholarship applications are available year-round. Check the individual scholarship page and application portal for current information.
How many scholarships does Barry Community Foundation award?
Barry Community Foundation and its geographic affiliates award more than 100 scholarships each year to eligible students.
Do I have to live in Barry County to apply?
Many scholarships are designed for Barry County students, but some region-wide opportunities may be available to students in other West Michigan communities. Review individual scholarship requirements to confirm eligibility.
What materials do I need for my scholarship application?
High school seniors and graduates may need a cumulative GPA, academic and extracurricular activities, SAT score, written narratives, and up to four letters of recommendation. Adult student applicants may need to provide employment history, educational history, and their future educational and career goals.
Are scholarships available for adult students?
Yes. Adult student scholarships may be available year-round for people returning to school, pursuing training, or continuing their education after time away from high school.
Where do I apply for a scholarship?
Students can apply through the Barry Community Foundation scholarship portal. Before applying, visit the Scholarship Basics section to review the information and materials you may need.
Who can help me with my application?
Contact Barry Community Foundation for help finding the right scholarship opportunity or understanding the application process.
Barry Community Foundation Scholarships at a Glance
Serves:
Eligible students in Barry County and select West Michigan communities
Scholarships Awarded:
More than 100 each year
Annual Application Period:
December 1 through February 20
Adult Student Applications:
Available year-round
Students Supported:
High school seniors, graduates, current college students, and adult learners
Application Portal:
Barry Community Foundation Scholarship Portal
Based In:
Hastings, Michigan
