Frequently Asked Questions

Straight Talk
Before you go any further, here are some facts and tips to help you along the way. Over the years, we've read thousands of applications. The ones that get rejected immediately are incomplete or have shallow essays or letters of reference. The ones that impress us have the following characteristics: essays that clearly answer the questions, and show depth and careful consideration of the topic, and letters of reference that demonstrate true knowledge of the candidate and his/her outstanding qualifications.

So, if you want our selection committee to take you seriously, please take our application seriously.

HOW MUCH IS THE AWARD?

In the past our awards ranged from $500 up to $2500. Starting in the 2003 - 2004 academic year our awards will range from $3000 to $5000 per year and are renewable yearly to a maximum of four years.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Please read the New Scholarships page carefully. All application instructions are on it.

ARE GRADUATE DEGREE APPLICANTS WELCOME TO APPLY?

Yes.

WHAT ARE THE SELECTION CRITERIA?

Grant applicants are evaluated based upon work experience, community service and volunteer activities, responses to essay questions, directed letters of reference, and financial need. Academic promise, as indicated by GPA and test scores from SAT/ACT aptitude tests, will also be considered. Interviews with the HF Fund selection committee will required for finalists.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE ESSAY QUESTIONS?

Your responses to the essay questions will, in large part, determine whether you are invited to participate in the interview process. Therefore, the essay questions are your first chance to impress the selection committee. It is your best opportunity to communicate your activities, accomplishments and goals. These answers, along with your academic achievements should paint a picture of you for the scholarship committee. Think of it as a written interview since we, unfortunately, are not be able to meet with all the applicants in person. Remember, the quality and content of your essays are extremely important.

WHAT IS A "DIRECTED" LETTER OF REFERENCE AND WHY DO I NEED TO GET THEM?

A "directed" letter of reference asks your references specific questions. The questions address factors necessary in determining your eligibility for an HF Fund grant. "Directed" letters are not the more common "To Whom It May Concern" letters. The individuals you select to write them should believe in you. Their letters help our committee gain insight into your character, motivation and potential. So, please choose references carefully. They are a very important part of your application.

WHY DO YOU NEED TO KNOW MY GENDER AND ETHNICITY?

Gender and ethnic groups are not factors in determining eligibility. You are requested to provide these data for statistical purposes only.

WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT DATES?

Our deadline for applications is the same as OSAC's (March 1). Interviews for finalists will be in early-mid May. Finalists will receive interview invitations no less than three weeks prior to the dates.

WHO ARE THE PEOPLE BEHIND HF FUND?

Trolls, elves, and woodland sprites. Well, not exactly. We're a group of folks who care a lot about helping people further their education. Many of us have had to work as we went to school, or went back to school later in life. Over the years, our selection committee has included nurses, doctors, lawyers, journalists, police officers, paramedics, teachers, college professors, and nurse-midwives. Our interview panel consists of professionals active in the relevant field, as well as others with long experience on our selection committee. All the people involved with HF Fund volunteer their time.

WHERE DO I SEND MY APPLICATION?

HF Fund
PO Box 25749
Portland, OR 97298-0749

HOW WILL I BE NOTIFIED AND RECEIVE THE GRANT MONEY?

Notice of awards and the terms will be mailed by OSAC to each recipient who must then sign and return the notification indicating acceptance of all terms and conditions.

Disbursement for scholarships will be made directly to the educational institution and applied towards tuition each term. Students must make satisfactory academic progress, according to the institutional policies for students receiving federal Title IV aid, and be verified as three-quarter time students by the school to remain eligible throughout the grant period. Funds received through matching programs will be governed by the individual organizational guidelines.

ANY OTHER DETAILS?

Submission of an application provides consent to HF Fund personnel to contact or confirm any information supplied. No materials submitted will be returned.

ARE THE SCHOLARSHIPS RENEWABLE?

Yes.

IF I HAVE QUESTIONS, HOW CAN I CONTACT SOMEONE AT HF FUND?

Please email us at faq@hffund.org. Phone calls are discouraged due to the volume of applications we receive.