# Carson Scholars Program

School-nominated national award founded by Dr. Ben Carson: students in grades 4-11 with a 3.75+ GPA and strong community service win a $1,000 college scholarship and Carson Scholar recognition.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Carson Scholars Fund |
| Category | leadership |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–11 |
| Format | Online / virtual |
| Location | Various |
| Apply | https://carsonscholars.org/scholarships/ |

## About this program

# Carson Scholars Program

The Carson Scholars Fund, co-founded by pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson and Candy Carson in 1994, awards $1,000 college scholarships to students who excel academically and give back to their communities. The award intentionally honors both — scholars must pair top grades with demonstrated humanitarian service. In the 2026 cycle, nominations opened October 15, 2025 and student applications were due January 11, 2026; the next season's dates are announced in the fall.

## What You'll Do

- Be nominated by an educator at your school (each accredited U.S. K-12 school may nominate one student per year)
- Complete the application with your report card and a teacher recommendation
- Document your community service and humanitarian activities

## Who Should Apply

Students in grades 4-11 (through junior year of high school) at accredited U.S. schools with a minimum 3.75 GPA who display humanitarian qualities through community service. Interested students should approach a teacher, counselor, or principal about their school's nomination in early fall.

## Outcomes

Winners receive a $1,000 scholarship invested toward college, a recognition package, and the Carson Scholar title, which can be earned again in later grades. The fund has awarded thousands of scholarships nationwide since 1994.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for Carson Scholars Program?

Carson Scholars Program is open to high school students in grades 9–11. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Carson Scholars Program online or in person?

Carson Scholars Program is fully online — students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection.

### How do I apply to Carson Scholars Program?

Apply directly through Carson Scholars Fund's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-06.
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