This scholarship program is targeted for students who are determined to be “at risk” and are on the Federal “free & reduced lunch” program.   Under most circumstances, it is not likely the student would be able to attend college without financial assistance. Often, the recipients of this scholarship will be the first generation in the family to go to college.

“I know that I cannot afford the expenses of college. Now with your help it has become possible…it is definitely people like you who help shape a positive future for young people today.”
Florida Prepaid Scholarship Recipient – Jefferson High School

The Hillsborough Education Foundation can maximize a donor’s gift and improve students’ opportunities through its partnership with the Florida Prepaid Scholarship Foundation. Every donor’s gift is matched one to one by the Florida Prepaid Scholarship Foundation.

One of the most valuable aspects of this program is that it enables students in grades 6-9 to apply, providing incentive and motivation for those who have been awarded the scholarship to stay in school and pursue academic goals. To assure the students’ success the Foundation matches these scholarship recipients with a mentor to help guide them through middle and high school. Learn more about this program.

“There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.”
John Andrew Holmes

Often businesses, individuals and civic groups will make significant gifts to support students through this important scholarship program. In this scholarship program, the Foundation is able to purchase a variety of scholarships that can be used at any public Florida college or university. The Hillsborough Education Foundation is continually seeking new donors to help fill the gap between the number of scholarships it can award and the number of applicants it receives.

• Three types of tuition scholarships are available for purchase through Florida Prepaid: -year community college, 2 + 2 (2 year community college/ 2 year university), and a 4-year university scholarship. Each scholarship recipient is selected through a competitive application process that is advertised in the schools and available on line.
• The Hillsborough Education Foundation is able to offer twice as many scholarships to students who qualify due to a match from the Florida Prepaid Foundation.
• Scholarship students are entered into the Take Stock in Children scholarship program and matched with a mentor.
• Students are tracked by foundation staff throughout their school career to ensure they follow the scholarship guidelines of staying in school, remaining drug and crime free, and maintaining good grades