The application period for the Herbert Lehman scholarship has now closed. Applications will reopen on opens on November 30, 2023.
The Herbert Lehman Scholarship is a national, highly competitive scholarship that makes annual awards to qualified, outstanding undergraduate students. The scholarship, established in 1964, is named after the former Governor and United States Senator from New York in recognition of his integrity, courage, and persistence on behalf of numerous civil rights causes.
Herbert Lehman Scholarships were initially awarded to help Black students attend formerly segregated four-year colleges and universities in the South and to increase the number of African Americans in the legal profession.
Today, the mission of the Herbert Lehman Education Program is to help transform the promise of racial equality into a social, economic, and political reality by supporting talented undergraduate students with financial need to stay in school and successfully complete their bachelor’s degree.
Currently, Herbert Lehman Scholarships are open to students who meet the eligibility and award criteria. Awards generally do not exceed four years.
Students who are interested in applying for the Herbert Lehman Scholarship are strongly encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and program description before submitting an application.
Applications must be completed by April 4, 2023. Visit our application portal to apply.
There is no minimum test score or GPA requirement. The scholarship committee will take into account each candidate’s GPA, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, financial needs, volunteer activities, and essays. No single component of an application will determine a scholarship award.
Unfortunately, we are not accepting applications from non-U.S. citizens at this time.
Generally, Lehman Scholarships provide $3,000 per year for four years provided that the student continues full-time study, remains in good academic standing with his or her college or university, and fulfills all other program requirements.
No. Lehman Scholarships are only available to students who will be attending universities and colleges in the United States.
Lehman Scholarships are only available to students who will be attending four-year colleges or universities full-time. If you start as a junior, you are not eligible.
Applicants must provide a copy of their FAFSA Form, and have a family income of $70,000 or less.
Two letters of recommendation are needed. We advise applicants to contact their recommenders early to ensure materials are submitted on time.
Family/Independent income must not exceed $70,000.
