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Introduction
Navigating the path to higher education can be both exciting and daunting, especially when considering the financial aspects. Scholarships play a pivotal role in easing the financial burden and opening doors to academic opportunities. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of the 2024 Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund Scholarship, designed to support high-achieving California high school students of Filipino heritage pursuing careers in STEM fields.
Background
Established in 2002 by Dado and Maria Banatao through the Asian Pacific Fund, the Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund Scholarship aims to empower Filipino American students with a passion for math and science to pursue engineering and science careers. The scholarship seeks to address the underrepresentation of Filipino Americans in these fields by providing financial assistance and support.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Grade level: Must be a rising freshman enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year college or university for the 2024-2025 academic year.
- Minimum GPA: 3.0.
- Major: Must be pursuing studies in engineering, mathematics, computer science, environmental science, or physical science. Note: Health career pursuits are not eligible.
- Ethnic heritage: Must be of Filipino heritage (at least 50%).
- Residency: Must be a California resident.
Benefits
Recipients of the scholarship will receive an annual award of $5,000, renewable for up to 4 years, totaling $20,000.
Application Process
Applicants must submit all materials online by Friday, March 1. Finalists will be selected for a 30-minute Zoom interview between late March to mid-April 2023. If chosen for an interview, finalists must submit official transcripts, SAT/ACT score reports, and FAFSA student aid reports. Notification of scholarship recipients will be sent out by May 1.
Preparing Your Application
Your application should include the following materials:
- Online application form
- Essays
- Resume
- Financial data for self and parents (as reported on FAFSA)
- Most recent transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation (at least one from a current teacher)
For questions or further assistance, applicants can contact scholarship@asianpacificfund.org.
Important Dates
- Application deadline: Friday, March 1
- Finalist interviews: Late March to mid-April 2023
- Notification of recipients: By May 1
Conclusion
The Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund Scholarship offers a valuable opportunity for Filipino American students in California to pursue their academic and career aspirations in STEM fields. By meeting the eligibility criteria, preparing a strong application, and adhering to the deadlines, aspiring scholars can take significant steps towards realizing their educational goals.
