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 helps students continue their education without the burden of financial barriers.

The scholarship covers the remaining cost of tuition, required fees, and books after all eligible federal, state, institutional, and other financial aid has been applied. As a "last-dollar" scholarship, it fills any remaining gap in these eligible educational expenses, allowing students to focus on their academic success instead of their college costs.

Scholarship funds are applied directly to the student's St. Petersburg College account and are never disbursed to the student. CFY scholarship funds are only applied after all eligible financial aid has been awarded and posted, ensuring the scholarship serves as the final source of funding for covered expenses.

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

ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP

CFY/St. Petersburg College (SPC) Scholarship Program

Take the next step toward your future with the CFY/SPC Scholarship Program. Through the partnership between CFY and St. Petersburg College (SPC), this scholarship helps make college more affordable so you can focus on achieving your educational goals—not the cost.

The CFY/SPC Scholarship covers any remaining tuition, fees, and required books after all eligible financial aid has been applied. Students will have 2 years to complete their degree. Whether you're pursuing an associate degree or an eligible certificate at SPC, this scholarship can help you stay on track to earn your credential.

Who Can Benefit?

The CFY/SPC Scholarship is designed for graduating Pinellas County high school seniors who plan to continue their education at St. Petersburg College. By connecting students with generous community sponsors, CFY is helping open doors to higher education and brighter futures.

What the Scholarship Covers

Remaining tuition after all eligible financial aid is applied. Required fees. Required textbooks and course materials.

Academic Requirements

Students who have not completed college-level Math and English coursework must enroll in those courses during their first term at SPC and maintain 12 credits per semester.

Before You Apply

The CFY/SPC Scholarship is part of the Richard O. Jacobson Education Program. Students may apply for only one scholarship within this program. Submitting applications for more than one CFY scholarship will result in disqualification from all Richard O. Jacobson Education Program scholarship opportunities.

Your education is an investment in your future. The CFY/SPC Scholarship is here to help you take that next step with confidence.

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.

How do I apply for a CFY Scholarship?

Applications for the CFY/SPC Scholarship Program must be submitted online through the CFY website during the open application period. Be sure to select the CFY/SPC Scholarship Program when completing your application.

As part of the application, students are required to complete all essay questions. Incomplete applications, including unanswered essay prompts, will not be considered.

If you do not have access to a computer or need a disability-related accommodation or other assistance to complete the application, please notify your school counselor or student representative. They will work with the CFY office to ensure you have the support needed to complete your application.

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 funds are paid directly to the student's St. Petersburg College account and are never distributed to the student. Funds are applied only after all eligible financial aid has been awarded and posted, based on the information provided on the Scholarship Disbursement Form.

Scholarship awards are typically disbursed approximately two weeks after the start of the fall and spring semesters for students whose accounts are in good standing.

To receive scholarship funding each semester, students must submit their Schedule and Fees statement from St. Petersburg College. This document identifies any remaining eligible tuition, fees, and book charges that the CFY/SPC Scholarship will cover.

What are my responsibilities to receive this award?

The CFY/SPC Scholarship provides support for two academic years following high school graduation. The scholarship covers any remaining tuition, required fees, and books after all eligible financial aid has been awarded and applied.

To receive and maintain the scholarship, students must:

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year and complete the verification process, if selected.

Maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.

Remain continuously enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each fall and spring semester.

Continue to meet all scholarship eligibility requirements.

As a last-dollar scholarship, CFY funding is applied only after all eligible financial aid has been awarded, helping ensure students can continue their education with reduced out-of-pocket costs.

What can the funds be used for?

The CFY/SPC Scholarship may be used only for tuition, required fees, and required books at St. Petersburg College.

As a last-dollar scholarship, CFY funds are applied only after all eligible financial aid has been awarded and posted. The scholarship covers any remaining eligible balance for approved educational expenses.

Scholarship funds are paid directly to the student's St. Petersburg College account and are never disbursed to the student, either directly or indirectly.

Students are responsible for working with St. Petersburg College to ensure all financial aid requirements are met and that scholarship funds are applied appropriately to their account.

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.