MONTGOMERY, AL - Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarships recognize exceptionally able high school seniors who show promise of continued excellence in postsecondary education. For the 2010-2011 school year, 113 Alabama students won Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarships for college expenses. Students may renew the $1,500 Byrd Scholarships for three additional years.

The federally funded scholarship program provides funds to state education agencies to award scholarships to applicants based on four eligibility criteria:

1.      Be a 2010 graduate of a public or private school or receive a recognized equivalent of a high school diploma.

2.      Be a resident of the state of Alabama.

3.      Be admitted to an institution of higher education.

4.      Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and show promise of continued academic achievement.

Scholarship winners were selected on a competitive application basis within each of Alabama’s seven congressional districts. Application screening was based on the following:

·         Superior academic proficiency as demonstrated by standardized test scores on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), American College Test (ACT), or National Merit Scholarship

·         High school grades with emphasis given to Honor, Advanced Placement, and concurrent college courses

·         Leadership ability

·         Involvement in school and community activities including acquired skills and achievement outside the realm of the usual high school academic achievement

·         High goals and aspirations that reflect the promise of continued academic achievement

Program guidelines now require coordination of Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship awards with other scholarships, grants and loans that may be received by the student. Students who already have full scholarship awards may not receive a Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship.

For more information, contact Mrs. Carolyn E. Townsend, Scholarships and Awards Program Coordinator, Alabama Department of Education, 334-353-5440.

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