Scholarship America has established a scholarship program to help students planning to enroll or are currently enrolled in higher education programs. Please note high school seniors are not eligible. Applicants may be U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents (holders of a Permanent Resident Card), or individuals granted deferred action status under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program (DACA). Applicants must be current college undergraduates who plan to enroll at an accredited institution in the United States for the entire 2026-2027 academic year. They must be studying to obtain their first Associate's or first Bachelor's degree. The selection process for the Scholarship America Dream Award happens in two steps. Step 1: Apply to Become a Semifinalist. A group of semifinalists will be selected based on financial need; academic record; demonstrated leadership and involvement in school or community activities; work experience; and a personal statement. Special emphasis will be placed on financial need and the applicant's ability to overcome barriers. Step 2: Finalist and Recipient Selection. From the pool of semifinalists, Scholarship America will select finalists and potential recipients. Awards are renewable up to three additional years or until a first bachelor's degree is earned, whichever occurs first. A deferral of up to one year may be granted for any reason. Previous recipients are not eligible to reapply. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.