What is the OPALGA+
Student Scholarship Fund?

The OPALGA+ Student Scholarship Fund provides financial support for continuing education of local LGBTQ+ students and allies who have demonstrated service and advocacy to the LGBTQ+ community and/or the larger community. Scholarships vary in amount up to $5,000, paid directly to the college or program you plan to attend.

APPLICATIONS FOR 2023 SCHOLARSHIPS CLOSED ON FEBRUARY 28, 2023 (Extended from January 31st). If you have already applied but still need to submit supporting materials or if you have any questions, please send an email to scholarship@opalga.org.

TO QUALIFY, STUDENTS MUST MEET THESE CRITERIA:

1. Identify as an LGBTQ+ person or be the child of an LGBTQ+ person or be an LGBTQ+ ally.
2. Be a graduating high school senior applying to a 4-year or 2-year degree program or trade school/certificate program. Preference will be given to candidates graduating high school and to those who have not previously been awarded an OPALGA+ scholarship.
3. Reside in one of the following locations: Oak Park, River Forest, Berwyn, Cicero, Elmwood Park, Forest Park, Maywood, Melrose Park, Broadview, Brookfield, North Riverside, Riverside OR the following Chicago zip codes: 60707, 60623, 60624, 60639, 60644, or 60651.

APPLICANTS ARE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT BY FEBRUARY 28, 2023 (EXTENDED):

1. Scholarship application found at www.opalga.org/scholarship-application/
2. One essay describing your service/advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community or larger community
3. Two or more letters of recommendation from those with knowledge of your service and character

Scholarship recipients will be chosen based on the strength of the essays, recommendations, demonstration of dedication to service, and involvement in other activities.