Vocational/Trade Scholarship

APPLYING FOR A CFY SCHOLARSHIP

The Next Chapter of Student Success

Aligned with CFY’s commitment to elevating youth through impactful programming, the Trade/ Vocational Scholarship Program extends our support to many students who began their journey in CFY-sponsored programs and are now moving on to the next chapter of their education.

For more information, please review the Trade/ Vocational Scholarship Program FAQs below or contact us.

trade-1

ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP

Vocational/Trade Scholarship

In 2025, CFY developed a partnership with Pinellas Technical College to provide 10 scholarships to Pinellas County graduating seniors who will be attending Pinellas Technical College beginning the fall after their high school graduation. CFY will cover the cost of a program certification in the student's chosen course of study. Students who choose a different vocational/trade route other than Pinellas Tech College route will receive up to a $3,500 scholarship towards their education

This program connects community sponsors with aspiring Pinellas County high school seniors seeking to further their education at Vocational/Trade School Program. Students may only apply for one CFY Scholarship Program, submitting an application to more than one program will disqualify a student from all programs. 

The annual application period runs from November 15 – January 23.

IMG_6823

APPLICATION PROCESS

How You Can Apply

Applications must be submitted through the CFY website. Exceptions are only made in rare cases for students facing significant barriers to computer or internet access. CFY provides points & pointers to support applicants through the process.

QUESTIONS?

Scholarship FAQs

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 Vocational/Trade Scholarship which is only for students who plan to attend Pinellas Technical College or similar vocational/trade program. Students attending College/University or St. Petersburg College are not eligible for this scholarship. Please apply for the CFY College/ University Scholarship Program or SPC Scholarship Program which are only for students who are intending to enroll at a College/ University or St. Petersburg College.   Some exceptions may be made as determined by the CFY Scholarship Committee.
How do I apply for a Vocational/Trade Scholarship?
Applications are to be completed online through the CFY website by selecting the appropriate area on the application for the Vocational/Trade Scholarship Program during the open application period.  Students may only apply for one CFY Scholarship Program only (there are currently 3).  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 Vocational/Trade 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.
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?
Unlike other CFY fundraising/impact efforts, sponsors of the Vocational/Trade 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.
How is the scholarship distributed?
Scholarships are issued directly to Pinellas Technical College (or equivalent program) to the students account using the information provided on the Scholarship Disbursement Form, distributed upon award and due no later than July 31st of each year to students in good standing. 
What must I do to receive this scholarship?
What can the funds be used for?
Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, fees, books and equipment only.  It is the student’s responsibility to work with your school to apply funds appropriately. 
What will happen if I change schools between semesters?
Since this approval for is for Pinellas Technical 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 Pinellas Technical College (or equivalent program), payable to CFY to remain in good standing with CFY.  
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 for this program 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 if Pinellas Technical College says they did not receive the funds?

Please allow anywhere from 2-6 weeks (about 1 and a half months) from the check date for processing. Checks are issued using the information provided exactly as it is on the Scholarship Disbursement Form, so it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure correct school and personnel detail. If PTC still states that the funds have not been received beyond a reasonable time frame, please email  scholarships@cfypinellas.org  with your name, the name and your student ID. We will respond via email with your check number and date to be provided to the financial aid office for research. 

Students are required to submit the following by June 15th to scholarships@cfypinellas.org  following their first year to avoid delays in their second-year funding: 

  • Official transcript showing the students status and grade point average 
  • A thank you letter to the donor including an update on what the first-year experience has meant to your development 
  • Fall course schedule 
image

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.

IMPORTANT DATES

Scholarship Applications Timeline

CONTINUING THE MISSION

The Next Chapter of Student Success

Building on CFY’s mission of elevating youth through access to impactful programming, the Dick Jacobson Vocational/Trade Scholarship Program extends our impact to many of the same young people who started their development in CFY sponsored programs and now moving on to their next great life chapter. 

0

Trade/Vocational Scholarships Available (10 opportunities)

Donate Today and See the Difference Your Contribution Makes

Choose from a range of contribution options to help the youth of Pinellas county continue to learn and grow with the support they need.