🎓 Scholarships & Financial Aid Opportunities
Empowering Students. Reducing College Costs.
At College Planning Today Services, we believe every student deserves access to quality education without being limited by financial barriers. Our scholarship programs and curated listings connect students to opportunities that match their academic achievements, life circumstances, and career goals.
We guide students step-by-step — from scholarship discovery to application completion — ensuring that they don’t leave money on the table.
Featured College Planning Today Services (CPTS) Scholarships
The Featured CPTS Scholarships highlight our most impactful and sought-after awards designed to make higher education more attainable for dedicated students nationwide. These scholarships reflect the core mission of College Planning TODAY Services (CPTS) — to bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity by providing financial support to those who demonstrate academic potential, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.
Each featured scholarship has been carefully developed to address specific student needs, from tuition and housing assistance to technology support and parental hardship relief. Through these programs, CPTS continues to empower students and families to pursue their educational goals without the overwhelming burden of financial stress.
Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a future engineer, or a first-generation college student, our featured scholarships are designed to help you move forward with confidence and purpose.
College Planning Financial Scholarship
($2,500 | in-state –$6,000 | out-of-state)
Provides financial assistance to eligible in-state or out-of-state students to help cover tuition and book expenses.
Number of Awards: Multiple recipients per year, based on available funding.
Field of Study: Open to all majors.
Institution: Applicable to any accredited college or university.
To apply, complete and submit one application or email submission. Be sure to indicate the scholarships you wish to be considered for and include a short essay (75–300 words) explaining why you should be selected for each scholarship.
Derrell Allen Jenkins Festive Scholarship
($2,500–$6,000)
The Derrell Allen Jenkins Festive Scholarship was established to honor the spirit of creativity, dedication, and artistic excellence. This scholarship supports talented students pursuing studies in music or the arts who demonstrate both financial need and a passion for using their gifts to inspire others. Awards are granted annually to multiple recipients who exemplify commitment, artistic potential, and community involvement. Eligible students may attend any accredited institution and must show evidence of active participation or academic pursuit in their chosen artistic field.
Tech Scholarship
($1,000)
The CPTS Tech Scholarship supports students who demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence but face financial challenges in securing the technology necessary for success. This award helps cover the cost of essential equipment—such as laptops, tablets, and other educational tools—needed for in-class and remote learning. By ensuring every student has access to the technology they need, CPTS helps eliminate barriers to learning and promotes equal academic opportunity across all fields of study.
Housing Scholarship
($1,000–$2,500)
The CPTS Housing Scholarship assists students with financial support for educational housing expenses, easing one of the most significant costs associated with attending college. This scholarship helps cover a portion of room and board, allowing recipients to focus on their studies without the stress of unstable living arrangements. Available to both in-state and out-of-state students, this award exemplifies CPTS’s commitment to creating a stable and supportive learning environment for all.
College Meal Plans ($1,000)
($1,000)
Proper nutrition is critical to academic success. The CPTS College Meal Plan Scholarship provides financial assistance to students living on campus who need support in covering the cost of meal plans. This scholarship ensures that recipients have access to nutritious, reliable meals throughout the school year—allowing them to stay healthy, focused, and ready to perform at their best in both academics and extracurricular activities.
Band Scholarship
($2,500)
The CPTS Band Scholarship is dedicated to students pursuing their passion in music and the arts. This award provides funding for the purchase of musical instruments, equipment, or related supplies necessary for academic and performance success. CPTS recognizes the importance of the arts in higher education and aims to support the next generation of talented musicians as they bring creativity and culture to their campus communities.
Clothing Scholarship
($500)
First impressions matter. The CPTS Professional Attire Scholarship helps students obtain business and professional clothing required for interviews, internships, and formal academic events. Designed especially for Business and STEM students, this award empowers recipients to present themselves with confidence and professionalism as they transition from campus to career. CPTS believes that every student deserves the opportunity to look the part of success—without financial strain.
Parent Hardship Award
($2,000)
The CPTS Parent Hardship Award recognizes and supports parents who are actively pursuing educational or entrepreneurial advancement while raising children currently enrolled in post-secondary institutions. This scholarship offers financial relief to parents who have demonstrated perseverance, dedication, and sacrifice in supporting their family’s educational journey. Applicants are asked to submit a 350–500 word essay detailing their story, challenges, and aspirations. CPTS honors these parents as essential pillars in the education ecosystem—proving that learning and leadership often begin at home.
National & Foundation Scholarships
🎓 General Scholarships
Ron Brown Scholarship Program
Website: ronbrown.org
The Ron Brown Scholarship Program honors the legacy of Ronald H. Brown, the first African-American U.S. Secretary of Commerce, by empowering the next generation of African-American leaders. This highly competitive program supports academically talented students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, a strong commitment to community service, and a passion for making a positive impact on society.
Award: Varies based on financial need and academic merit
Deadline: January 9
Why It Matters: Recipients join a distinguished network of Ron Brown Scholars who receive not only financial assistance but also mentorship, leadership training, and access to lifelong professional opportunities.
Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship
Website: jackierobinson.org
The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship continues the legacy of a true American icon—breaking barriers both on and off the field. This scholarship supports minority students who exhibit academic excellence, leadership, and financial need, while also committing to community service and social responsibility.
Award: Varies annually based on demonstrated financial need and leadership capacity.
Why It Matters: In addition to financial support, recipients are welcomed into a comprehensive mentoring and leadership development program that prepares them to succeed in college and beyond—reflecting Jackie Robinson’s lifelong mission to create equal opportunities for all.
Scholarships by Student Situation
🏠 Students Experiencing Homelessness
EEqual Scholarship Awards Program
Website: scholarships.com/scholarships/eequal-scholarship-awards-program
The EEqual Scholarship Awards Program is dedicated to supporting students who have experienced housing instability or homelessness and are determined to continue their education despite adversity. This scholarship provides not only financial assistance of $2,000 toward tuition and educational expenses but also includes mentorship and guidance throughout the recipient’s college journey.
Through this program, students gain access to a supportive network of mentors who help them navigate academic, personal, and financial challenges—ensuring they have the resources and encouragement needed to persist through graduation.
Deadline: March 31
Why It Matters: The EEqual Scholarship embodies the belief that every student deserves a fair chance to succeed, regardless of their circumstances. It recognizes resilience, determination, and the power of education to transform lives.
Programs & State-Specific Opportunities
Life‑Gets‑Better Scholarship Program
Website: Florida A&M University – Life Gets Better Scholarship bgca.scholarsapply.org
This merit‑based program was established to support National Merit® Finalists and Scholars who are pursuing degrees in STEM or business‑related fields at select universities. Recipients receive comprehensive scholarship support and are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and personal ambition. By removing the financial barrier for high‑achieving students, the program enables them to focus on their studies, participate in research or internships, and launch meaningful careers.
Farah & Farah Empowering Greatness Scholarship
Website: Farah & Farah – Empowering Greatness Scholarship Farah & Farah+2Farah & Farah+2
This Florida‑based scholarship awards high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding community leadership, academic promise, and dedication to service. Winners receive two full years of tuition at a Florida public college, university, or trade school and are selected through a rigorous review process. Since its launch, the program has awarded more than 30 students and continues to empower emerging leaders who are committed to driving positive change in their communities.
FAFSA & Federal Aid Guidance
Maximize Your Financial Aid
EEqual Scholarship Awards Program
Completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) unlocks grants, loans, and work-study opportunities — including for students facing housing insecurity or financial hardship.
CPTS advisors can help you navigate documentation and ensure your application is complete and accurate.
📞 Need Help? Schedule a FAFSA Prep Session
Application Process for CPTS-Affiliated Scholarships
Over $9 billion in scholarships are available to our CPTS students each year.
To qualify for CPTS-affiliated scholarships:
- Register on our website.
- Interview with a College Planning professional.
- Submit your scholarship checklist and essay (75–300 words).
Contact Info:
📧 info@collegeplanningtoday.com
📞 770-376-7297