United Methodist scholarship portal open for United Methodist students
The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) announces that its scholarship application portal is open for United Methodist students seeking scholarships for undergraduate and graduate study at colleges, universities and seminaries in the United States. Potential scholarships awarded range from $500 to $1,200, on average.
“These scholarships help ensure United Methodist students have the support they need to grow in their faith, succeed in their chosen professions and develop into transformational leaders for the church and world,” said GBHEM General Secretary Roland Fernandes.
In 2024, GBHEM awarded more than 2,100 scholarships, valued at nearly $3.7 million, to undergraduate and graduate students at 509 U.S. schools. This financial aid helped students of all backgrounds pursue their dreams and education to serve as the next generation of leaders, such as:
Abigail Smith, a 2024 The Rev. Dr. Karen Layman Gift of Hope Scholarship recipient, who plans to pursue a career in wildlife conservation after graduating from Colorado State University. Abigail is eager to gain access to scientific resources that were not available at her high school. She said, “This scholarship decreases the financial burden my family is taking on by letting me pursue an out-of-state education. It means a lot to me to get a scholarship from GBHEM because of how paramount The United Methodist Church has been for me throughout my life.”
Benjamin Cashwell, a 2024 Ethics Scholarship recipient, is pursuing a prelaw degree at Dartmouth College to prepare for a legal career. Benjamin wants to fight systemic corruption and create a more just society. “This scholarship not only alleviates the financial burden of pursuing my education but also reinforces the values and principles instilled in me by The United Methodist Church,” he said, “Your generous contribution enables me to continue my journey with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.”
Autumn Hinton, a 2024 Gift of Hope Scholarship recipient, is pursuing a degree in Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies at the University of North Carolina Greensboro in preparation for a career in social justice. “As the daughter of a campus minister and active United Methodist, I have learned and experienced so many things that point directly to the love of Jesus and the importance of acting that out in big and little ways each day,” Autumn said. “This award will help me continue my studies and to be someone who works for justice for those on the margins, today and for a very long time.”
Students may submit one application to the portal each year. Their application is then screened for the appropriate scholarship program, including general scholarships, HBCU scholarships and ministry support. They may also indicate specific scholarships for which they would like to be considered. Click on button below to learn more about GBHEM scholarships and apply.
Learn more about supporting these students through scholarships and how you can help.
About General Board of Higher Education and Ministry
As stewards of the educational mission and intellectual life of The United Methodist Church, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) connects the church and the academy and develops transformational leaders for the ministry of the church. Elders, deacons and licensed local pastors benefit from training and candidacy programs. Young adults find help in clarifying their vocation and God’s call on their lives through leadership and discernment programs. GBHEM also supports and connects networks of more than 1,000 United Methodist and Methodist-related schools, colleges and universities around the world.
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