GSBA Scholarship Fund 2026 (USA) – Partial Funding
Country: United States
University Level: Bachelor's, Master’s, Ph.D.
Funding Type: Partial Funding
Eligible Students: Domestic (Washington State residents)
Field of Study: All Subjects
Overview
The GSBA Scholarship Fund is one of the largest and most impactful LGBTQ+ scholarship programs in the United States. Dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ and allied students residing in Washington State, the fund provides financial assistance, mentorship, leadership development, and a strong sense of community. With awards averaging $13,000 and approximately 25 scholarships available annually, GSBA aims to uplift emerging leaders committed to equality, inclusion, and social justice.
The program operates in partnership with the Pride Foundation. Since its establishment in 1985, the GSBA Scholarship Fund has played a crucial role in advancing educational access while prioritizing racial, social justice, and LGBTQ+ empowerment.
Degree Levels
The scholarship supports students pursuing:
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Undergraduate degrees
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Graduate and professional degrees
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Community college programs
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Technical and vocational programs
Full-time and, in some cases, part-time students may be eligible depending on fund requirements.
Available Subjects
There are no major restrictions. Applicants from all disciplines may apply, including:
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Social Sciences
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STEM
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Education
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Arts and Humanities
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Health Sciences
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Law, Business, Public Policy
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Technical and Vocational Fields
Benefits
Recipients of the GSBA Scholarship Fund receive:
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Up to $13,000 in academic-year financial aid
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Support for tuition, books, housing, and educational expenses
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Connection to a vibrant network of LGBTQ+ mentors and leaders
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Access to GSBA leadership training and community events
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Recognition at the annual GSBA Scholars Celebration
Eligible Nationalities
Applicants must:
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Be residents of Washington State
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Identify as LGBTQ+ or be LGBTQ+ allies
Citizenship status is not a barrier; undocumented and DACA students are eligible if they meet residency requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
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Identify as LGBTQ+ or be strong LGBTQ+ allies
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Be Washington State residents
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Plan to enroll in a post-secondary program (undergraduate or graduate)
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Demonstrate leadership, advocacy, and community involvement
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Be committed to equity, inclusion, and social justice
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Show financial need or significant personal challenges
Application Procedure
Step 1: Online Application
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Opens October 11 and closes the first Friday of January at 5:00 PM PST
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Applicants create an online account and may complete the application in multiple sessions
Step 2: Semi-Finalist Review
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Volunteer reviewers assess applications based on leadership, advocacy, academic goals, and community commitment
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Semi-finalists are notified in mid-March
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Interviews are conducted via Zoom on Saturday, April 5th
Step 3: Scholar Selection
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Final awardees are selected following interviews
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GSBA Scholars are publicly recognized by the organization
Application Link: https://www.scholarshipsads.com/gsba-scholarship-fund-next-year-usa