Ron Brown Scholarship

What Is the Ron Brown Scholarship?

The Ron Brown Scholar Program (RBSP) is a highly selective, merit-based scholarship designed to support academically talented and service-oriented African American high school seniors. 

Named in honor of Ron Brown, the first African American U.S. Secretary of Commerce, this scholarship focuses on leadership, community impact, and academic excellence.

Unlike many scholarships that only provide financial assistance, the Ron Brown Scholarship offers a lifelong network of support, helping scholars excel in college and their future careers.

Who Is Eligible for the Ron Brown Scholarship?

The Ron Brown Scholar Program is open to African American high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, strong leadership skills, and a deep commitment to community service.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be African American
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Be a current high school senior (class of 2026 for the next cycle)
• Demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement
• Demonstrate financial need
• Plan to enroll full-time in an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S

Ron Brown Scholarship Requirements

Applying for the Ron Brown Scholarship requires submitting a detailed application package that highlights academic achievements, leadership experience, and community involvement.

Necessary Documents for the Application

To apply, students must provide:

• Completed Online Application: Accessible through the Ron Brown Scholar Program website.​
• Official High School Transcript: Reflecting academic performance.​
• Two Letters of Recommendation: 
  • At least one from a high school counselor, teacher, or principal.
  • The second may be from someone who knows the applicant well and can attest to their character, leadership ability, commitment to community service, and/or academic achievement.​
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency: Such as a birth certificate or permanent resident card.​

Details on Essays, Letters of Recommendation, and Transcripts

Essays

Two essays are required, each approximately 500 words. The first essay should answer a specific question provided in the application. The second essay can be on any topic, allowing applicants to showcase aspects of themselves not evident in other parts of the application.​

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation should be submitted electronically through the online application process. At least one letter should be from a high school counselor, teacher, or principal. The second letter can be from someone who knows the applicant well and can attest to their character, leadership ability, commitment to community service, and/or academic achievement.​

Transcripts

Official high school transcripts should be submitted by the deadline of December 1st. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Additional Materials Required

Due to the national trend toward test-optional policies, SAT or ACT scores are not required. However, if applicants have taken these exams and wish to report their scores, they may do so.​

Applicants are also asked to provide their parents’ adjusted gross income from the previous year’s federal income tax return. By signing the application, parents agree to provide proof of income, including copies of income tax returns, if required

How to Apply for the Ron Brown Scholarship

The Ron Brown Scholarship application process is structured to assess applicants based on their academic performance, leadership abilities, and commitment to community service. 

Unlike many scholarships, this program does not require standardized test scores or a minimum GPA but instead focuses on well-rounded individuals with a strong potential for impact.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Application Process

Step 1: Complete the Application

• The application form is available for download on the Ron Brown Scholar Program website once the application cycle opens.
• Applicants must fill out personal details, academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and community service involvement.

Step 2: Write and Upload Your Personal Essay

• Prepare two essays, each approximately 500 words.
  • The first should address a specific question provided in the application.
  • The second can be on any topic of the applicant’s choice.

Step 3: Request Letters of Recommendation

• One letter should speak to your academic achievements.
• The second letter should highlight your leadership and character.
• Ensure your recommenders submit their letters before the deadline.

Step 4: Submit Your Required Documents

• Official Transcript: 
  • Request an official transcript from your high school and have it sent directly with your application.
  • The transcript should reflect your most recent academic performance and cumulative GPA.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency:
  • Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, a U.S. passport, or a permanent resident card (Green Card).
  • Ensure the copy is clear and legible before submitting.

Step 5: Submit the Completed Application by the Deadline

• The Ron Brown Scholarship has two application deadlines:
  • Early Consideration Deadline: November 1, 2025
  • Final Deadline: December 1, 2025
• Applications submitted after December 1 will not be considered.

Step 6: Wait for Selection Notifications

• Finalists will be contacted for interviews in March 2026.
• Ron Brown Scholars will be announced in April 2026 and awarded the scholarship.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

• Missing the Deadline: Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances.
• Submitting an Incomplete Application: Ensure all required materials, including essays, transcripts, and recommendation letters, are included.
• Not Writing Strong Essays: Essays should clearly reflect your leadership, academic goals, and community involvement. Avoid vague responses.
• Choosing Weak References: Select recommenders who can provide detailed insights into your achievements and potential.
• Failing to Proofread: Spelling and grammar mistakes can make a poor impression—review your application carefully before submitting.

Ron Brown Scholarship Deadline & Important Dates

The 2025 Ron Brown Scholarship application cycle is now closed. However, students interested in applying for the 2026 cycle can expect a similar timeline, with applications opening in late summer or early fall 2025.

Current Application Deadlines (2024 Cycle)

• Application Opens: September 2024
• Application Deadline: December 1, 2024 (Closed)
• Semi-Finalists Notified: Mid-February 2025
• Finalists Notified: Late February – Early March 2025
• Winners Notified: April 15, 2025

Key Timeline for Students to Follow

• September – December 1, 2025 (Expected)
  • Complete and submit the online application.
• December 1, 2025
  • Ensure all application materials are submitted by this final deadline.
• Mid-February 2026
  • Await notification if selected as a semi-finalist.​
• Late February / Early March 2026
  • Participate in finalist interviews and activities if selected.​
• By April 15, 2026
  • Receive notification of scholarship award if selected.​

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning

The Ron Brown Scholar Program is highly competitive, selecting only 40-50 students from a large pool of applicants each year. 

What Scholarship Judges Look for in an Applicant

• Demonstrated Leadership: Judges look for students who have taken initiative in school, community, or extracurricular activities. Leadership roles in student government, clubs, or volunteer organizations can set you apart.
• Commitment to Community Service: A strong history of service that directly impacts others is crucial. Long-term engagement in meaningful causes carries more weight than one-time participation.
• Academic Excellence: Although there is no minimum GPA requirement, recipients typically have outstanding academic records with rigorous coursework.
• Strong Character and Work Ethic: The scholarship prioritizes students who embody integrity, perseverance, and a strong moral foundation.

How to Write a Standout Essay

• Tell a Compelling Story: Instead of listing accomplishments, use storytelling to highlight defining moments in your life. Personal experiences that show resilience, growth, and purpose will make your application memorable.
• Showcase Your Impact: Judges want to see how you’ve positively influenced your school, community, or peers. Discuss specific projects, leadership roles, or initiatives that had a lasting effect.
• Be Authentic: Avoid generic responses—write in your own voice and let your personality shine through.
• Stay Focused and Concise: Ensure your essay is well-structured and free of unnecessary filler. Answer the prompts directly and keep your writing clear.

How to Get Strong Letters of Recommendation

• Choose the Right People: Your recommenders should be teachers, mentors, or leaders who know you well and can speak to your character, achievements, and leadership.
• Give Them Enough Time: Ask for recommendations at least a month in advance to allow them to write a thoughtful, detailed letter.
• Provide Context: Share details about the scholarship, your accomplishments, and why you’re applying—this will help them craft a stronger letter.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Ron Brown Scholarship

How competitive is the Ron Brown Scholarship?

The Ron Brown Scholarship is highly competitive, with over 4,000 applicants each year and only 50 students selected.

Can I apply if I’m already in college?

No, the scholarship is only open to current high school seniors planning to attend a four-year U.S. college or university.

How will I receive the scholarship money?

The $40,000 award is distributed in $10,000 annual installments and sent directly to the recipient’s college or university.