The Baer Reintegration Scholarship program was created to help men and women who are rebuilding their lives after serving time in jail or prison get back on their feet with the financial help they need to start a career. Since its inception, the program has been incredibly successful in helping these individuals get new jobs and rebuild their lives, giving them one less thing to worry about so they can focus on getting back on track after a tough situation. The next round of scholarship applications is being accepted now, so be sure to apply by the July 1 deadline if you think you’re eligible!
Who can apply?
The Baer Reintegration Scholarship is available to any full-time student who is returning to school after a five-year break or more. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years and can be used at any accredited two- or four-year college or university, as well as vocational and technical schools. Your undergraduate degree will not affect your eligibility.
What is the award amount?
they are providing up to $5,000 per year ($25,000 total) in tuition assistance. These funds are tax-free and will cover your full tuition costs without the need for other funding sources. Students with prior federal loans may apply these funds to their outstanding loan balance; however, there is no guarantee that the loan will be forgiven.
For example, if you have $8,000 in federally subsidized loans remaining on your account with a 6% interest rate, then you would need an additional $1,240 (rounded up) to repay these outstanding loans by July 2020 (assuming you were attending an institution with annual tuition rates between $6,500 and $10,500). If this does not sound like it fits into your budget plan then we suggest exploring alternative ways of paying off your loans including enrolling in a deferment program where possible. Be sure to contact our team today if you have any questions about how this may work for you.
When do I have to apply?
This scholarship provides up to $5,000 to help cover the costs of tuition, books, and other expenses associated with returning to school. You are eligible if you served in a combat zone, such as Iraq or Afghanistan; have been injured in combat; or served in a theater of combat operations outside Iraq or Afghanistan on or after September 11, 2022. Applications will be accepted through April 20th and recipients will be notified by May 1st.
How do I get started on an application?
If you are interested in applying, please review the eligibility requirements and follow the instructions on how to apply. Please note that all applications must be submitted by the deadline to be considered.
The application will take 10-15 minutes to complete.
The scholarship can be used as full or partial payment towards tuition fees and/or course materials. The applicant will also receive a voucher worth $500 for the completion of an online counseling session provided by eMerge Online Counseling Services, LLC (eMerge). The counseling sessions are designed to provide information about healthy relationships, including how alcohol or drug use can impact them.
What if I don’t speak English well enough?
If you’re not confident in your English language skills, there are a few things you can do to help improve your chances of success when applying for the Baer Reintegration Scholarship. First, try to find a friend or family member who can help you edit your application and essays. Next, consider taking an English language course at a local community college or online. Finally, be sure to proofread your materials carefully before submitting them.
What happens after I submit my application?
After you submit your application, it will be reviewed by a committee of Baer Center staff and community members. If you are selected as a recipient, you will be notified via email and asked to provide additional documentation. Once all documentation is received, you will be formally awarded the scholarship and may begin using it towards your educational expenses.
