TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund grants scholarships to students with Turkish heritage who have demonstrated exceptional community service and have been accepted into accredited academic institutions in the United States with some secured funding for the pursuit of two-year postgraduate or four-year undergraduate degree programs. The scope of the scholarship encompasses all disciplines and aims to encourage ongoing community involvement and support students who are committed to making a positive impact. Each year, scholarship(s) with a maximum value of $15,000 per award will be disbursed to help cover tuition fees and/or living expenses. The scholarship is for one year only. The scholarship stipulates that the recipient’s academic institution must provide supplementary support or offer on-campus employment opportunities to the student. Scholars who would like to be considered extending the scholarship period should reapply.

Eligibility:

• Must be of Turkish origin.
• Must have already received partial funding from their accepted school (e.g., scholarships, grants).
• Must have a demonstrated history of significant community service.

Selection Criteria:

• Proof of quality and impact of community service.
• A minimum GPA of 3.5
• Financial need (to cover gaps not met by the existing funding).
• At least 3 reference letters, one related to the community service.

Scholarship Amount: Each scholarship disbursement will be up to $15,000 annually, which can be applied towards tuition fees and/or living expenses. The scholarship amount is for 1 year only. Students need to apply again to be considered for ongoing funding.

Selection Committee: Each year, a Selection Committee composed of five members will be constituted to assess eligible candidates. The Selection Committee reviews all recommended candidates admitted to the designated universities and narrows down the pool to a maximum of five candidates for the final round of interviews. Committee members then conduct interviews with each shortlisted candidate via videoconferencing. Following the interviews, the Committee reaches a final decision, which is submitted to the Board of Directors. The chosen recipient and her university are subsequently informed of the decision.

Application Process: The application process for the scholarship fund requires candidates to complete an online form with sections for personal information, academic records, details of existing funding, and a comprehensive community service statement.

Supporting Documents:

• Proof of Turkish origin.
• Confirmation of funding from the accepted school.
• Community service verification (e.g., letters from organizations, detailed service log).
• At least 3 reference letters.