EnwongoNavigating the path to higher education can feel overwhelming, especially when the financial burden weighs heavily on families. Thankfully, the Fully Funded SECU Scholarship Application 2025 offers a powerful opportunity for deserving high school seniors across North Carolina to pursue their dreams without the weight of overwhelming tuition fees.
Rooted in the heartwarming philosophy of “People Helping People,” this scholarship is a generous gift from the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation, designed to support students who demonstrate character, community service, leadership, and academic promise. With up to $10,000 in funding disbursed at $1,250 per semester over eight semesters, this scholarship opens doors to a brighter future for those who are willing to work hard and give back.
What makes the Fully Funded SECU Scholarship Application 2025 even more special is its personal and community-driven approach. This isn’t just about grades; it’s about honoring students who have shown kindness, dedication, and a genuine desire to make a difference in their communities. Applicants must be graduating from a North Carolina public high school, accepted into one of the 16 UNC System universities, and either a SECU member or eligible through a parent or guardian.
With a strong focus on financial need and a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5, this scholarship embodies the SECU Foundation’s heartfelt mission: to lift everyday families and invest in the future of North Carolina, one student at a time.
What Is the SECU “People Helping People” Scholarship?
The SECU Foundation “People Helping People” Scholarship is a fully funded $10,000 scholarship awarded to eligible North Carolina public high school seniors who plan to attend one of the 16 UNC System universities. The funds are distributed in eight instalments of $1,250 over eight consecutive semesters.
Established by the SECU Foundation, the program underscores the union’s long-standing commitment to community empowerment, educational support, and financial wellness. Each of North Carolina’s 115 Local Education Agencies (LEAs) is guaranteed at least one scholarship recipient per academic year.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for the SECU Scholarship?
To qualify for the SECU Scholarship Application 2025, students must meet the following requirements:
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North Carolina residency and eligibility for in-state tuition.
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Be a graduating senior at a North Carolina public high school.
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Be a SECU member or eligible through a parent/guardian’s membership.
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Have plans to attend one of the 16 UNC System universities.
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Demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA.
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Maintain a minimum unweighted GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Preference is given to students whose parents work in the public sector and to those who are interested in public service degree programs.
I’m an SECU Member, But My Child Isn’t. Are They Still Eligible?
Yes! If you are a current SECU member, your child is considered eligible for membership through you and can therefore apply. Membership eligibility is a key criterion, and being related to a member satisfies that condition.
How Do I Apply for the SECU Scholarship?
The application process for the SECU Foundation “People Helping People” Scholarship is typically facilitated through your high school guidance counsellor. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Obtain the Application Packet
Start by requesting the scholarship packet from your school counsellor or the financial aid office at your community college.
2. Complete the Application Form
Provide accurate personal, academic, and extracurricular details. Highlight your leadership qualities, integrity, and community service.
3. Write a Personal Essay
Craft a heartfelt 500–750-word essay addressing:
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Your career goals.
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Why is this scholarship vital to your future?
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Your community involvement, extracurricular activities, and any part-time work.
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The impact this financial support will have on your educational journey.
4. Prepare Required Documents
Include:
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University acceptance letter.
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Proof of SECU membership or eligibility.
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Signed consent form (with parent signature if under 18).
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High school transcript and, if applicable, a college transcript for transfer students.
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FAFSA documentation.
5. Submit the Application
All documents should be submitted to your school counsellor, who will forward them to the SECU Foundation, typically using platforms like Fluxx or DocuSign.
When Will I Be Notified If I Have Been Selected?
Recipients are usually notified in June. Be sure to monitor your email inbox and regularly check the SECU Foundation website for updates. Some schools and colleges have different internal deadlines, so always confirm with your counselor.
How Much Money Will I Receive If Selected?
The SECU “People Helping People” Scholarship awards a total of $10,000, paid out in $1,250 per semester for eight consecutive semesters. These funds are disbursed directly to the university to cover tuition and associated fees.
What If I’m Attending a Community College?
In addition to the UNC System scholarship, the SECU Foundation offers a Community College Scholarship valued at up to $5,000. This program supports students pursuing associate degrees and includes similar requirements for SECU membership, residency, and financial need.
SECU scholarship application 2025 deadline
Deadlines may vary based on school districts and colleges, but here are some key dates to watch:
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Application Opens: December 2024
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Application Deadline: Generally May 2, 2025, but specific schools may vary.
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LEA Notification Deadline: April 4, 2025
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Community College Example Deadlines:
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February 7, 2025 – Buncombe County Schools Foundation
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February 15, 2025 – Roanoke Valley Early College
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February 18, 2025 – Southeast Guilford High School
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June 30, 2025 – Wayne Community College
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Always verify your school’s specific deadline with your counselor or college advisor.
How Can I Support the SECU Scholarship Program?
If you’re inspired by the impact of this scholarship, there are several ways to contribute:
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Donate to the SECU Foundation.
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Spread awareness in your school or community.
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Participate in SECU-led community initiatives and events.
The scholarship is funded by generous contributions from SECU members, reflecting the union’s mission to uplift and empower hard-working North Carolinians.
Why This Scholarship Matters
At its core, the SECU Foundation “People Helping People” Scholarship is more than financial assistance; it’s a reflection of shared values, community responsibility, and belief in a brighter future. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a nurse, engineer, educator, or public servant, this scholarship helps bridge the gap between ambition and achievement.
Let your story be the next one that shows how the SECU Scholarship Application 2025 helped turn dreams into reality. Don’t wait, start your journey today!
FINAL THOUGHT
The heart of the SECU Scholarship Application 2025 lies not only in its generous financial support but in its mission to uplift students who demonstrate character, compassion, and commitment to their communities. It reflects the values of unity, service, and shared responsibility, a scholarship born out of people’s belief in each other. For every young dreamer preparing for college, this program is a timely reminder that you’re not walking this journey alone. The SECU Foundation, supported by everyday North Carolinians, stands ready to help you rise.
If you’re eligible and passionate about your future, don’t hesitate. Apply with humility, honesty, and hope. The SECU Scholarship Application 2025 could be more than just an opportunity it could be the beginning of a purpose-filled path, supported by a community that genuinely cares.
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