Ascentra Scholarship Program Offers $15,000 in Scholarships for 2024 School Year

BETTENDORF, IOWA – In 2024, a total of $15,000 in scholarships will be awarded to 15 Ascentra student members to help offset the costs of attending postsecondary education through a college, university or trade program.

The program includes awards for three different types of students. 

• Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to high school student members planning to enter college.
• Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to non-traditional student members age 19 or over planning to attend higher education.
• Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to members entering vocational school or college with a trade program.

To make it easier for applicants, Ascentra offers an online application process. Students can easily apply for scholarships by visiting ascentra.org/scholarships. In addition, Ascentra partners with several great local organizations that offer scholarships as well. We’ve shared some of those on our site to make it easier for applicants to find additional opportunities.

Traditional and non-traditional students are judged on their essay, resume, awards, extracurricular activities, volunteer services and work experience. This year’s 500-word essay question is, “As you prepare for the 2024 school year, how can you avoid excessive student loan debt and make informed decisions about borrowing for your education?”

Entrants for the vocational or trades scholarship will need to submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher or advisor, and answer the following question in less than 75 words, “Why did you choose your specific vocational/trades program and what are your career goals in this field?”

“Ascentra is focused on providing financial education, resources and opportunities for young members wanting to continue their education,” said Linda Andry, President and CEO, Ascentra Credit Union. “With the rising cost of education, it’s important that students consider the financial impact that their career and financial choices will have on the next stage of their lives. This scholarship program is a first step in assisting with those decisions.”

The Ascentra Scholarship Program allows students to apply every year they are enrolled in an accredited institution of higher learning and/or trade, even if they are previous recipients of the program.

For official rules and to apply for these scholarships and others, visit ascentra.org/scholarships. All entries must be submitted by the end of the day on Sunday, March 31, 2024.

About Ascentra:
Founded in 1950, Ascentra Credit Union, is Iowa's premier credit union with more than $523 million in assets and nine branches serving the communities of Bettendorf, Clinton, Davenport, Muscatine, Iowa and Moline, Illinois. Learn more about Ascentra Credit Union at ascentra.org.  Follow Ascentra on Facebook (@ascentra), Instagram (@ascentracu), TikTok (@ascentra) and on the Ascentra Credit Union YouTube channel.