If you’re a student planning for college—or a parent, teacher, or mentor helping one—you’ve probably heard the phrase: “Scholarships are free money—why not apply?” That’s especially true for the DAR Alice W. Rooke Scholarship 2026, a $5,000 award offered by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).
DAR Alice W. Rooke Scholarship 2026
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | DAR Alice W. Rooke Scholarship |
| Award Amount | $5,000 (one-time, non-renewable) |
| Deadline | January 31, 2026 |
| Eligibility | Open to any U.S. student accepted to or enrolled in an approved higher education program; no DAR membership or sponsorship required |
| Selection Priority | If equally qualified, female applicants receive preference |
| Application Platform | DAR National Scholarships Portal |
I’ve advised dozens of students on scholarship applications over the years, and one thing always surprises them: many high-value scholarships go unused simply because students assume they’re not “qualified enough” or don’t know where to start. The Alice W. Rooke Scholarship is accessible, straightforward, and open to a wide range of students. Let’s make sure you—or someone you care about—gets that $5,000 boost toward higher education.
What Is the DAR Alice W. Rooke Scholarship?
The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a historic women’s service organization founded in 1890, dedicated to promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism. While many associate DAR with genealogy or historical reenactments, fewer know that the organization awards more than $1.5 million in scholarships each year to students across the U.S.
The Alice W. Rooke Scholarship honors a former DAR leader and educator who championed access to quality education. Unlike some DAR awards that require lineage to a Revolutionary War patriot, this scholarship is open to all students, regardless of family history or DAR affiliation. That makes it one of the most inclusive and accessible awards in DAR’s portfolio.
Think of it like this: Most scholarships are like exclusive clubs with secret handshakes. The Alice W. Rooke Scholarship? It’s more like a welcome mat at the front door—everyone’s invited to apply.
Who Is Eligible?
Here’s the good news: eligibility is broad. To qualify for the 2026 Alice W. Rooke Scholarship, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Have been accepted to or currently enrolled in an accredited college, university, or graduate program in the U.S.
- Be pursuing a degree or certificate in any field (yes, even art, music, engineering, or cosmetology—DAR supports all disciplines!).
There’s no minimum GPA requirement stated, though strong academic performance and a thoughtful application will always help. And again—no DAR chapter sponsorship is needed. That removes a major barrier many students face with other society-based scholarships.
How Much Is the Award—and What Can It Be Used For?
The DAR Alice W. Rooke Scholarship provides $5,000 as a one-time award for the 2026–2027 academic year. The funds are sent directly to the student’s school to cover qualified educational expenses, including:
- Tuition and fees
- Books and supplies
- Room and board (if enrolled at least half-time)
While some sources occasionally misreport the amount as $20,000, official DAR materials consistently confirm $5,000. That’s still enough to cover a full semester of tuition at many community colleges—or significantly reduce student loan debt.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the 2026 Scholarship
Ready to apply? Follow these five clear steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Application Portal
Go to https://dar.academicworks.com/—the only authorized platform for DAR national scholarships.
Step 2: Create an Account
Use your email to set up a profile. Save your progress—you can return to your application before the deadline.
Step 3: Complete the General Application
This includes basic info (name, address, school), academic history, and financial details. You’ll also write a personal statement (typically 250–500 words). Focus on your goals, challenges, and how the scholarship will help you succeed.
Step 4: Select the Alice W. Rooke Scholarship
After submitting the general application, you’ll see a list of scholarships you qualify for. Check the box for the Alice W. Rooke Scholarship.
Step 5: Submit Before January 31, 2026
No late entries are accepted. Set a reminder on your phone or ask a friend to hold you accountable!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even strong candidates lose out due to avoidable errors. Don’t:
- Wait until the last minute (the website can get slow on deadline day).
- Submit generic essays—tailor your message to this specific award.
- Forget to proofread—ask a teacher, parent, or counselor to review your materials.
- Assume you’re “not DAR material”—this scholarship is designed for all students!
Why This Scholarship Matters in Today’s Economy
With the average cost of college exceeding $20,000 per year at public institutions—and over $50,000 at private ones —every dollar counts. A $5,000 scholarship can:
- Eliminate the need for a high-interest private loan
- Cover a full year of textbooks and lab fees
- Free up income so a student can intern (unpaid) or study abroad
More importantly, winning a national scholarship like this boosts your resume, opening doors to internships, fellowships, and graduate programs.
FAQs about DAR Alice W. Rooke Scholarship 2026
Q: Do I need to be related to a Revolutionary War soldier?
A: No. Unlike some DAR programs, the Alice W. Rooke Scholarship has no lineage requirement.
Q: Can graduate students apply?
A: Yes! The scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students alike, as long as you’re in an accredited U.S. program.
Q: Is the award renewable?
A: No, it’s a one-time $5,000 grant for the 2026–2027 academic year.
Q: When will winners be notified?
A: Typically by June 2026. Funds are disbursed in the fall semester.
Q: Can I apply for other DAR scholarships too?
A: Absolutely! The general application automatically matches you with all eligible awards—often 5–10 at once.
