APPLYING FOR A CFY/SPC SCHOLARSHIP

The Next Chapter of Student Success

Aligned with CFY's commitment to elevating youth through impactful programming, the CFY/SPC Scholarship Program supports students as they continue their education by covering the cost of Tuition, Fees, and Books after all Financial Aid the student is eligible for has been applied ensuring the selected student has access void of any financial barriers.

This scholarship is considered “Last Dollars in” and will cover any outstanding balance in the covered areas ensuring the student will have no financial responsibilities for fees associated with the covered areas. At no time will any funds be distributed directly to the student or CFY funds be applied prior to all financial aid being applied.

For more information, please review the SPC Scholarship Program FAQs below or contact us.

ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP

CFY/St. Petersburg College (SPC) Scholarship Program

Aligned with CFY’s commitment to empowering youth through impactful programs, the CFY/SPC Scholarship Program helps students continue their education by covering remaining tuition, fees, and book costs after all eligible financial aid has been applied. This support ensures that selected students can pursue their educational goals without financial barriers.

Students who have not already completed Math and English coursework are required to enroll in those courses during their first term. The CFY/SPC Scholarship covers any remaining tuition, books, and fees needed to earn an associate degree or eligible certificate at SPC after all other financial aid is applied.

Through this partnership, CFY continues to expand access to higher education opportunities for local students.

This program connects community sponsors with aspiring Pinellas County high school seniors pursuing their education at St. Petersburg College.

Students may only apply for one scholarship that is part of the Richard O. Jacobson Education Program. Applying to more than one scholarship will result in disqualification from all CFY scholarship opportunities.

The annual application period runs from November 15 – January 20.

Who is eligible to apply for a scholarship?

Any high school senior who attends a Pinellas County High School, public or private, may apply for the CFY/SPC Scholarship which is only for students who plan to attend St. Petersburg College. Students attending a College/ University or Vocational/ Trade College are not eligible for this scholarship. Please apply for the ROJ Traditional Scholarship or Vocational/Trade Scholarship Program sponsored by Duke Energy which are only for students who are intending to enroll at a College/University or Vocational/Trade College. Some exceptions may be made as determined by the CFY Scholarship Committee.

How do I apply for a CFY Scholarship?

Applications are to be completed online through the CFY website by selecting the appropriate area on the application for the CFY/SPC Scholarship Program during the open application period. If an applicant is unable to access a computer to complete the application or otherwise requires special accommodation, a student representative/counselor must communicate this to the CFY office. The application includes essay questions and when prompted the applicant must complete to be considered.

Who makes the decision on the applications?

Applications are submitted to the SPC Scholarship Committee for a blind review process (all identifying information about the student and family removed.) Upon review of the completed application and essay, top applicants are determined by the committee and assigned to sponsors.

Will I be notified if I do not receive a scholarship?

Yes, all applicants will receive decision communication.

Why do I need to write a thank you letter to my sponsor for the ROJ Education Program?

Unlike other CFY fundraising/impact efforts, sponsors of the CFY Scholarship Program has chosen to make a donation that will directly impact an individual student, rather than a broader community impact. It is important to thank them for their support and the impact it will make and is making on your educational journey.

What must I do to receive this scholarship?

You must enroll in the fall term following your high school graduation.
Enroll in at least twelve credit hours beginning in the fall term following your graduation.
Complete the current Free Application for Federal Students (FAFSA) and Verification if selected.
Meet SPC Satisfactory Academic Progress.
CFY/SPC Scholarship covers your tuition and fees after other possible financial aid has been applied, making this an exceptional opportunity.

How is my Scholarship distributed?

Scholarship is issued directly to St. Petersburg College to the students account after all financial aid has been applied using the information provided on the Scholarship Disbursement Form. Funds are distributed two weeks after the beginning of the fall and spring semesters to students' accounts in good standing.  Students will need to provide their Schedule and Fees each semester which will delineate any outstanding balances for CFY to cover.

What are my responsibilities to receive this award?

Scholarships are awarded to cover the cost of tuition, books, and fees through your second academic year after high school graduation after all eligible financial aid has been applied. The CFY/SPC Scholarship will cover any tuition, books, and fees after other possible financial aid has been applied. Students must enroll and complete the current FAFSA and verification. Scholarships are available over the first two years of schooling provided the applicant has met all criteria including maintaining a 2.0 GPA and being continuously enrolled in at least twelve credit hours per term.

What can the funds be used for?

Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, fees, and books only and at no time will any funds be paid directly or indirectly to the student. It is the student’s responsibility to work with SPC to apply funds appropriately.  

What if I take a semester or a year off?

To avoid forfeiting scholarship funds, a written submission indicating you are taking time off must be sent to scholarships@cfypinellas.org. Scholarship commitments by CFY are good for two years following high school graduation and will be withdrawn and funds awarded to another deserving student in the next cycle. 

What will happen if I change schools between semesters?

Since this approval for is for St. Petersburg College only it is nontransferable. A written (email) submission showing withdrawal must be sent to scholarships@cfypinellas.org remain in good standing with CFY. The student is responsible for requesting a refund from St. Petersburg College, payable to CFY to remain in good standing with CFY.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

Need-Based Qualification

Applicants may choose to apply for Need-Based Qualification to be considered for additional support. While not required, completing this section in your application is encouraged, as qualifying students will receive an automatic point toward their overall selection score.

Eligibility is determined based on Income Eligibility Guidelines and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Need-based applicants will be verified through school administration and the Florida Department of Children and Families.