Youth Leadership and Scholarship Program
Scholarship Sponsored by SchoolHouse Connection
The SchoolHouse Connection scholarship is among the few national programs created specifically for young people who have experienced homelessness.
What is the SchoolHouse Connection Youth Leadership & Scholarship Program?
The Youth Leadership & Scholarship Program offers more than tuition help. It combines financial awards with intensive case management, peer networks, leadership development, and college-readiness services to support students who have experienced homelessness as they begin college, advance their careers, and build long-term stability.
How we define homelessness
For this program, homelessness means lacking a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.
Who is eligible?
You may apply to the SchoolHouse Connection Youth Leadership & Scholarship Program if you meet every item below:
- You currently live in the United States (undocumented students may apply).
- Your date of birth is on or after June 2, 2007.
- You will be a first-time college student in the 2027–2028 academic year at one of the following: a four-year college or university, a community college, or a trade school. Eligible applicants include:
- High school juniors
- High school seniors planning a gap year
- Students who are earning a GED and plan to begin college in 2027–2028
- Note: dual-enrollment coursework does not qualify as starting college.
- You have experienced homelessness at some point within the past six years.
Timing and pre-college support
The program begins working with selected students one year before they enroll in college to provide focused college-readiness assistance.
Application status
Applications are open.
What SchoolHouse Connection Scholars receive
Scholars receive ongoing, multi-faceted support rather than a single payment. Benefits include:
- A $2,500 scholarship award plus monthly stipends up to $100 throughout college
- Individualized one-on-one support from SchoolHouse Connection staff
- Three all-expenses-paid trips
- Connection and mentorship from fellow SchoolHouse Connection Scholars
- Opportunities to participate in state and federal policy advocacy
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are preparing to begin college in 2027–2028, this program is designed to help you succeed from application through graduation.