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FAQs

2025 Scholarship Fund Award Ceremony

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About the Town of Chelmsford Scholarship Fund

 

Since 1957, the Town of Chelmsford Scholarship Fund has helped Chelmsford residents pursue their dreams of higher education. Founded by a group of passionate citizens, our mission is to provide financial assistance to local students continuing their education after high school.

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We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all of our funding comes from voluntary contributions. To date, we have awarded more than $1.5 million in scholarships, thanks to the generous support of individuals, businesses, and organizations in our community. We are proud to be a fund by Chelmsford, for Chelmsford, with no taxpayer funding.

 

 

Our History

 

In the mid-1950s, community members recognized the need for a unified program to help Chelmsford students afford higher education. After months of planning, the Town of Chelmsford Scholarship Fund was formally established on April 8, 1957. Since our founding, every dollar awarded has been made possible by the kindness of those who believe in our mission.

 
 
  • Can a student reapply?

Students who have applied in the past, whether they received a scholarship or not, are strongly encouraged to reapply. To be considered, simply complete the full application process each year you are eligible.

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  • What are the criteria for awarding scholarships?
    • Financial Need: We consider each applicant’s need for financial assistance.

    • Scholastic Achievement: Academic performance and grades are a key part of our evaluation.

    • Proof of Enrollment: Applicants must show proof of acceptance at an accredited institution of higher education.

    • Character: We look for qualities that demonstrate an applicant’s potential for success in college and beyond.

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  • How are the recipients selected?

Our selection process is a comprehensive and confidential two-part review.

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  1. Financial Need Assessment: Two directors from our Financial Needs committee evaluate each applicant's financial situation. Using confidential financial data from the College Board's CSS Profile, they assign a rating for financial need. The strictest confidentiality is maintained throughout this process.

  2. Selection Committee Review: An experienced Selection committee then reviews applicants based on criteria beyond financial need, including academic achievement and personal character. They conduct interviews to learn more about each student's potential for success in higher education.

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The final scholarship decisions are made by combining the ratings from both committees, ensuring that we support students who demonstrate both significant financial need and a strong potential to thrive.

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  • How can I help?

There are three great ways to help us support Chelmsford students:

  • Encourage students to apply: Spread the word to local students and families about the scholarship and our mission.

  • Support our events: Participate in our fundraising activities throughout the year.

  • Make a donation: Your contribution directly funds scholarships. You can donate at any time, but we especially appreciate support for our annual fund appeal in March.

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For more details on how to give, please visit our Please visit our Contributor Page 

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  • How is the Fund administered?

 

The Fund is managed by a dedicated Board of Directors, a group of twenty-two Chelmsford citizens who volunteer their time and expertise.

 

The Board oversees five standing committees: Ways and Means, Selection, Financial Needs, Memorial Scholarships, and Investments. All members of the Board and its committees serve on a voluntary basis, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to our mission.

 

To maintain fairness and avoid any conflict of interest, dependents of directors are not eligible to receive scholarship grants.

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  • Understanding our Scholarship types​

 

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  • Designated Scholarship: A donor who contributes $500 or more can choose to have a scholarship publicly designated with a name of their choosing or remain anonymous

  • Memorial Scholarship: A donor who contributes $500 or more can choose to name the scholarship in memory of a loved one

  • Continuing Scholarship: A one-time donation of $10,000 establishes a Continuing Scholarship, which provides a $500 scholarship each year

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If you are interested in sponsoring a scholarship you may contact any member of our Board of Directors for more information or submit through our contact form below.

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