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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a scholarship?

A scholarship is a financial award for a student to further their education and is not required to be repaid. Blue & Gold scholarships are privately funded, meaning they don’t come from the government, colleges or universities.  These scholarships are intended to be added to other financial supports you receive.

Which Blue & Gold Scholarships am I eligible for? Do I need to apply for all of the scholarships listed separately?

Filling out your Blue & Gold scholarship application will automatically apply for all of the scholarships we manage. Your eligibility for each various scholarship will be determined by the answers given on your application. You only need to submit one application. Our selection process will help us determine which scholarship fits you best.

Where do I start?

Read about Blu & Gold scholarships here. Check to make sure you’re eligible for a Blue &Gold scholarship. Then simply fill out the application. The reward is well worth the time involved!

What are the deadlines for Blue & Gold scholarships?

Applications are due on March 1, 2025. They can be turned in at the high school office.

What effect will a Blue & Gold scholarship have on my financial aid package?

If you have earned any outside scholarship funds, you need to notify your school’s financial aid office so the information can be used in calculating your financial aid eligibility.

Do you have any tips for applying for scholarships?

Yes!

  1. Meet the application deadline.
    Use a calendar or planner, make a schedule, and stick to it. If you miss the deadline, even by just one day, you may not be considered.
  2. Gather application materials early.
    Give yourself plenty of time to complete each step. Applications that have been rushed look sloppy, and incomplete applications probably won’t be accepted.
  3. Write a great essay.
    Think carefully about the question being asked and use this opportunity to tell the selection committee things about you that might not be shown elsewhere in the application. Get help with editing for grammar and spelling, but do your own writing—the committee wants to hear from you personally. 
  4. Sing your own praises.
    Applications will often ask you to talk about what you do with your time. As uncomfortable as this may feel, this is once in your life when it’s necessary to brag. Tell them about recognitions and awards you’ve received. Emphasize activities that show your talents and passions, especially things that demonstrate your ability to lead, take initative, persist through adversity, and care for your community. Don’t underestimate yourself – employment and family responsibilities can say a lot in your favor as well.

How do I receive my scholarship funds?

The way to claim your scholarship that you have received is listed with your scholarship certificate that you receive at graduation. It is very important to keep all paperwork regarding scholarships in your brown folder. NOTE:  Some scholarships can be received in the FALL semester following high school graduation, some require waiting until the SPRING semester, and some require the student to complete a FULL YEAR of college before receiving the scholarship. A GPA of 2.0 is usually needed by the student during college to receive the scholarship.

An awarded scholarship is paid directly to the college you designate – you don’t need to worry about coordinating or transferring any funds.

For scholarships connected to the Blue & Gold Foundation you will need to do the following:

  1. If you received a memorial scholarship, send a “Thank You” to the family who funded it.
  2. If you received a community initiative scholarship, send a “Thank You” to Blue and Gold.
  3. After you have successfully completed your first semester of school (with at least a 2.0 grade point average), you are eligible for your scholarship.
  4. You must claim your scholarship within 2.5 years following your high school graduation. NOTE: Students that go Full-time Active Duty in any branch of the military have 10 years to claim their B/G scholarship.
  5. Send a short letter, that includes the address of where your scholarship(s) should be sent to, and a copy of your unofficial transcript to the following address.

    Nancy Bormann, PA
    Blue & Gold Fiscal Agent
    108 St. Oalf Avenue North
    Canby, MN   56220

    or email to Nancy at nmbcpa@hotmail.com.

  1. A check will be sent to the institution you are or are planning to attend. The check will be made payable to   you and the institution.  Be advised that SWIF will be issuing your scholarship money upon the Blue & Gold Foundation Boards’ approval at their monthly meetings.  This overall process could possibly take 6 weeks or longer.

Do Blue & Gold scholarships work at community college or technical/vocational colleges?

Absolutely! Blue & Gold offers awards to students pursuing advanced education at any college, university, technical school or other accredited program.

When are scholarship recipients announced?

Scholarship recipients will be announced at graduation with various awards being presented by Blue & Gold representatives, family members of named scholarships, or business representatives.

What if I have a question that isn’t answered on this page?

Contact us at contact@canbyblueandgold.org