Friends of Oregon Students Fund (FOOSF)

FOOSF is the branch of the HF Fund which grants scholarships - primarily undergraduate - in partnership with the Oregon Student Assistance Commission (OSAC). The awards range from $3000 to $5000 and are renewable yearly. Graduate degree candidates may also apply.

FOOSF's focus is the non-traditional student (e.g. older, returning, parent) who will continue to work 20+ hours per week while attending college at least 3/4 time. Eligible students must be pursuing careers in teaching or nursing. Additional requirements include volunteer or work experience relevant to the chosen profession, and cumulative GPA 2.5 or GPA 2.5 over last three quarters with solid course load. Strong preference is given to students who have overcome significant personal obstacles.

Additional essays and directed letters of reference are required, as well as interviews for the finalists. The essays and letters allow candidates to demonstrate their ability to balance school, work, and personal life, as well as their experience in overcoming obstacles. The deadline for these essays and reference letters are the same as OSAC's application deadline (March 1).

Interviews will be conducted in Portland in May. Invitations to interviews will go out in early-mid April. Applicants invited to these interviews will meet with a panel of professionals from their chosen field.

Grant recipients are evaluated based upon work experience, community service and volunteer activities, responses to essay questions, directed letters of reference, interviews, and financial need. Academic promise, as indicated by GPA and test scores from SAT/ACT aptitude tests, will also be considered.

All FOOSF applicants must first apply through OSAC  in compliance with OSAC's deadlines.