Massachusetts Christian A. Herter Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Massachusetts Department of Higher Education
The Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship Program is a financial aid initiative for students in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts who show academic potential and a desire for further education. The program, which was established in 1972, specifically targets high school sophomores and juniors who may face socio-economic and environmental challenges that could hinder their educational progress.
Each year, the Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship Program selects 25 students from Massachusetts to receive financial aid for their higher education. The amount awarded is determined annually, taking into account the student's college Cost of Attendance, demonstrated need, and the program's funding level. The scholarships, which are subject to annual appropriations from the Massachusetts Legislature, can be awarded for up to four years.
Who qualifies for the Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship?
Eligibility requirements include:
- Enrollment in the 10th or 11th grade at a public or private secondary school in Massachusetts
- Physical residence in Massachusetts with an intention to remain in the state, in line with the Board of Higher Education policy
- Approved eligibility status as a “High School Completer,” as per Massachusetts tuition equity law, or U.S. Citizenship, permanent legal residency, or non-citizen eligibility under Title IV regulations
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
- Demonstration of challenging personal circumstances, high financial need, and strong academic potential for further education at a college or university
- Nomination by a sponsoring school or agency
How are applications for the Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship evaluated?
Applicants are assessed based on an autobiographical essay outlining their future goals, achievements, and the hardships they have overcome. Other evaluation criteria include Special Skills, Leadership Qualities, Relative Maturity, Personal Difficulties, Motivation, Enthusiasm, Capacity for Growth, Academic Promise, and Community Outreach and Involvement.
Are there any restrictions on how the Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship can be used?
The scholarship can only be used for college-related expenses, such as tuition, fees, room and board, at an accredited postsecondary institution within the United States. Recipients must enroll in a postsecondary institution immediately after high school graduation, or they will lose the scholarship. However, in extreme circumstances, a recipient may apply for a deferment of the scholarship for up to two years.
The Herter Scholarship application is available online through the Herter Scholarship portal. The 2024 application will be open from December 2023, and all required documentation must be submitted by the deadline: Friday, February 16, 2024. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The application and supporting documents must be submitted by the Nominator, Student (Nominee), and Parent/Guardian.
- Nominators are required to complete the Nominator Request Form to gain access to the Herter Nominator Portal.
- Students must be nominated to access the portal and online application. Once nominated, they will receive an email to create their account.
- Parents/Guardians will need to create an account to provide household and financial information, once the student has provided their contact information on the application.