Have questions? You’re in the right place. Our FAQ page is designed to provide clear, helpful answers about our scholarship programs, application process, eligibility requirements, and key deadlines. Whether you’re a student, parent, or supporter, we’re here to make things simple and transparent.
Cumberland Community Foundation (CCF) offers two application cycles each year, giving students multiple opportunities to apply for available scholarships. Be sure to review cycle-specific deadlines and requirements so you don’t miss your chance.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Program Questions
1. What types of scholarships does the Community Foundation offer?
We administer a wide range of scholarships funded by local donors, nonprofits, and charitable funds. Awards may be based on academic achievement, financial need, community involvement, field of study, or donor-specified criteria. Some scholarships are renewable while others are one-time awards.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Eligibility varies by scholarship. Most opportunities are open to graduating high school seniors, while others are available to current college students, including non-traditional students. Most scholarships require applicants to reside in and/or attend school within Cumberland County, though some donors extend eligibility to nearby counties (Harnett, Hoke, Robeson). Applicants should carefully review the specific criteria for each scholarship to determine their eligibility.
Tip: Residency is typically determined by your primary home address or the school you attend.
3. When should I start applying for scholarships?
We recommend starting your scholarship search as early as your senior year of high school—or earlier. For scholarships from CCF, check out timelines and information pages on our website for more details.
4. Can I apply if I am already in college or pursuing graduate studies?
Yes. While most scholarships support undergraduate students, some are available for current college or non-traditional students. A small number may support graduate study if specified. Check individual criteria for details.
Application Process
5. How do I apply for scholarships?
Applications are submitted through our online scholarship portal. Visit our website’s scholarship page for application links, timelines, and instructions.
6. What documents do I need to submit?
Common requirements include:
• High school or college transcripts
• Letters of recommendation/Third Party Recommendations
• FAFSA Student Aid Index (SAI)
• Essays or personal statements
• Resume or activity list
Requirements vary, so review each scholarship carefully.
7. Do I need to complete FAFSA before applying?
Not always. However, if a scholarship requires financial need, you must submit FAFSA information (SAI). You may begin your application before FAFSA is processed but should complete it as soon as possible.
8. Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes. Our system will match you to all scholarships you qualify for during the application cycle.
9. Is there an application fee?
No. It is free to apply for all scholarships administered by Cumberland Community Foundation.
10. What if I miss the deadline?
Late applications cannot be accepted. We encourage students to begin early and reach out with questions well before the deadline. Check out timelines and information pages on our website.
*Bonus Tips for Success
Start early in your journey—subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook to stay connected with updates, events, and opportunities from our foundation and scholarship programs.
• Read requirements carefully
• Proof your work before submitting
• Submit all materials on time
• Ask for help when needed
Online Portal and Technical Help
11. What if I forget my login or password?
Use the “Forgot Password” option on the portal login page or contact support.
12. Can I save my application and finish later?
Yes. You may save your progress and return at any time before the deadline.
13. Can I edit my application after submitting it?
Typically, no. Review your application carefully before submission. Contact us if corrections are needed.
14. Why don’t I see certain scholarships?
Our system displays only scholarships for which you meet initial eligibility criteria. Scholarships may also be unavailable for the current academic year (e.g., due to renewal cycles), or an error in your application may affect your matches.
If you believe you should be eligible, please contact us for assistance.
Recommendations and Essays
15. Who should I ask for a recommendation?
Ask someone who knows you well, such as a teacher, counselor, employer, or mentor, and can submit the recommendation before the deadline. Please note that relatives are not permitted.
16. Are there deadlines for recommenders?
Yes. Recommenders must submit their recommendation by the application deadline.
17. What if my recommendation is late or there is an issue or concern with the recommender?
Late recommendations may result in an incomplete application. Please have the recommender contact the foundation as soon as possible if an issue arises.
18. Do you have tips for writing a strong short answer essay?
Yes:
Be authentic and personal, avoid depending on AI
Clearly answer the prompt
Proofread carefully
Highlight your impact and goals
Financial Aid and Award Details
19. How much can I receive?
Scholarships award amounts vary widely depending on the scholarship opportunity and how many scholarships you are awarded, however, our scholarship awards typically range from $1,000 to $10,000 per year.
20. How do scholarships affect financial aid?
Institutional aid policies differ by school. Colleges may adjust aid packages when outside scholarships are added. Contact your financial aid office for details. And learn more about scholarship displacement on our website.
21. Are scholarships taxable?
Scholarships used for tuition and required fees are generally not taxable. Funds used for room, board, or other expenses may be taxable. Consult a tax professional.
22. Are scholarships renewable?
Some scholarships renew for up to three years with requirements such as maintaining GPA and submitting documentation including transcripts uploaded to the short renewal application. The renewal is due in January each year. Check individual criteria for details.
23. How are funds distributed? Can funds be paid directly to me?
Funds are sent directly to your school and usually split between fall and spring semesters. Any changes to this payment process need to be requested and approved by the foundation before payment is sent in the fall. Please note that scholarship funds cannot be paid directly to recipients.
24. Can I use the scholarship at any college?
Most scholarships apply to accredited U.S. nonprofit institutions. For-profit schools are not eligible. Note: Some donor funds specify public universities, in state schools, or particular programs. Check individual criteria for details.
Selection Process
25. Who reviews applications?
Volunteer scholarship committees, donor representatives, and foundation staff reviews applications. Reviewers evaluate academic performance, financial need, short answer essays, and alignment with donor intent in an online scholarship evaluation software.
26. Is financial need required?
Not always, some scholarships are merit-based, while others require demonstrated financial need, usually shown by the Student Aid Index (SAI) from your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). See each scholarship description for specific requirements.
27. How competitive is the process?
Competitiveness varies. Some opportunities receive dozens of applications, others less. All eligible students are encouraged to apply.
28. When will I be notified?
Notification timelines vary between our two cycles. All applicants receive email notifications after selections are finalized. Timelines and information for each cycle can be found on our website on the scholarship page.
29. What happens after I am selected?
You must:
Accept the award in the portal
Submit a handwritten thank-you letter to the donor- emailed letters are not acceptable
Provide proof of enrollment
Attend a recognition event (if applicable, not mandatory)
30. How long do I have to accept my award?
Deadlines will be included in your award notification. Failure to respond may result in forfeiture of your award(s).
Enrollment and Special Circumstances
Includes policies on early graduation, transfer, GPA, study abroad, summer use, enrollment changes, and degree limits.
Important: Always contact the foundation before making academic or enrollment changes.
31. How do I get proof of enrollment?
You can obtain proof of enrollment (enrollment verification) through your college’s student portal, typically under “Student Records” or “Enrollment Verification.” If unavailable online, contact the Registrar’s Office by phone, email, or request form. Some schools use services such as the National Student Clearinghouse for instant access.
32. When will proof of enrollment be available?
Proof of enrollment is typically available after classes begin and enrollment is verified. Check with your institution for specific timelines. Contact the foundation if delays may affect your scholarship payment.
33. What happens if I change my major or transfer schools?
Some scholarships allow changes; others require a specific major or institution. Contact us before making changes to confirm continued eligibility.
34. What if my GPA drops?
For renewable scholarships, a GPA drop may result in academic probation or loss of eligibility based on donor requirements. Students must submit transcripts during renewal to verify academic standing. Communicate early if challenges arise.
35. Do I need to reapply each year?
Renewable scholarships require annual verification, not a full reapplication, typically due in January. One-time scholarships are not renewable.
36. What is required to renew my scholarship?
Submit a renewal application including your FAFSA Student Aid Index (if required), current GPA (typically 3.0 or good standing), and a recent transcript with fall grades by the deadline. Some scholarships may also require a short essay.
37. What happens if I graduate early?
Scholarships typically end upon graduation. In some cases, final term funding may be prorated, depending on the award.
38. Can I use my scholarship for only one semester if I graduate early?
Yes. You may use the portion allocated for the term you attend (fall or spring). Awards are typically split evenly. Exceptions require prior approval.
39. Can I use my scholarship for graduate-level classes as an undergraduate?
Yes, if you remain classified as an undergraduate in an eligible program.
40. Can I use my scholarship if I study abroad?
Generally, yes, if you remain enrolled at an accredited U.S. institution and the program applies toward your degree. Confirm any restrictions in advance.
41. Can I use my scholarship for summer school?
Some scholarships allow this if coursework applies to your degree. Others only cover fall and spring semesters. Approval must be requested in advance.
42. Can I defer or pause my scholarship?
No. Deferrals or pauses of scholarship payments for any reason are not permitted.
43. Can I use my scholarship for graduate school?
Most scholarships are for undergraduate study only unless otherwise specified.
44. Can I use my scholarship for a second bachelor’s degree?
No. Funding is limited to your first undergraduate degree, up to four years.
45. What if I change my enrollment status?
Most scholarships require full-time enrollment. Contact the foundation before reducing your course load.
46. What if I switch to online classes?
Changes in course format may affect eligibility. Review requirements and confirm with the foundation before making changes.
47. Can I use my scholarship at a for-profit university?
No. Scholarships are valid only at accredited, nonprofit institutions.
Scholarship & College Financial Aid FAQs (Key Terms)
Basic Financial Aid Terms
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
The FAFSA is a free application for students complete to apply for federal, state, and many institutional financial aid programs. It determines eligibility for grants, work-study, and loans.
SAI (Student Aid Index)
The SAI is a number calculated from your FAFSA. It represents how much your family can contribute toward your education. Lower SAI = more financial need.
COA (Cost of Attendance)
The total estimated cost to attend a college for one year. It includes tuition, fees, housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses.
EFC (Expected Family Contribution) (used in older systems)
The previous version of SAI. Some schools or older resources may still be referenced to this term.
Types of Financial Aid
Scholarship
Money awarded to students that does not need to be repaid, often based on merit, need, or special criteria.
Grant
Free money typically awarded based on financial need (examples: Pell Grant).
Student Loan
Money borrowed to pay for college that must be repaid with interest.
Work-Study
A program that allows students to earn money through part-time jobs while attending school.
Award and Enrollment Terms
Financial Aid Award Letter / Offer
A document from a college showing the types and amounts of financial aid offered.
Net Price
The amount you actually pay after scholarships and grants are subtracted from the Cost of Attendance.
Proof of enrollment (also called an enrollment verification)
Proof of enrollment is an official document from a college or university that confirms you are currently registered as a student.
Enrollment Status
Refers to whether a student is attending full-time, half-time, or less. Aid eligibility often depends on this.
Verification
A process where schools request additional documents to confirm FAFSA information.
College Planning Terms
Accredited Institution
A school that meets certain standards set by an official accrediting agency. Financial aid is usually only available at accredited schools.
For-profit colleges and universities
Also known as proprietary colleges, are post-secondary schools that rely on investors, and survive by making a profit. They include for-profit vocational and technical schools, career colleges, and universities (many of which have predominantly online instruction).
Degree Program
A structured set of courses leading to a credential such as an associate or bachelor’s degree.
FAFSA Deadline
The cutoff date to submit your FAFSA. Deadlines vary by state and school, and applying early is strongly encouraged. Visit https://studentaid.gov/ for more information.
Need and Eligibility Terms
Financial Need
The difference between the Cost of Attendance (COA) and your Student Aid Index (SAI).
Dependency Status
Determines whether a student must include parent income information on the FAFSA.
Independent Student
A student who does not need to report parental income (based on criteria such as age, marital status, military service, etc.).
*This FAQ is designed to support students and families throughout the scholarship process. For full details, always refer to individual scholarship criteria.
For information about creating a scholarship, please contact Maddie Kellogg at Maddie@cumberlandcf.org or 910-483-4447 ext. 107.
