Smith Scholarship Questions

Do I need letters of recommendation?

No, they are not required. However, you may submit them if you wish.

Do I need to send a Merced High School transcript every year?

The High School transcript is only required the first year that you apply. We keep it on file for future use.

Whose tax forms do I need to send if my parents are divorced?

The parent who claims you for tax purposes.

What tax forms do I need to include?

Federal Tax Form 1040, or equivalent for you and your spouse, parent or guardian, for the previous one year.

What happens to the information I send in?

The information is only used for evaluating your application for a scholarship for the year applied. Transcripts are microfiched and saved for future reference. All other documents are shredded. We do not have any old records you may have sent in with the previous application, that is why we ask for these items (like tax forms) each time you apply.

What is a "supporting party"?

Section 9.3 of the application refers to the person or persons who assist you in affording to go to school. This is typically your parent (s), guardian or your spouse, if married.

What if I am applying for several schools but am not sure which one I will attend?

In section 6 of the application, list the schools to which you have applied. If selected for a scholarship, you will need to let us know which school you select, as awards are mailed to the school, not the student. (Do not forget to keep us informed of your mailing address at school).

What is considered "full-time"?

Full-time is determined by your college.  Usually it is twelve (12) units undergraduate and eight (8) units in a graduate program per semester (two quarters). Summer school does not count for the scholarship "year".