If you’re a high school senior—or the parent, counselor, or mentor of one—you’ve probably heard whispers about the Quaker Foundation Scholarships 2026. Maybe you’ve seen a flyer at New Philadelphia High School, or your guidance counselor mentioned it in passing.
Quaker Foundation Scholarships 2026
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Eligibility | Graduating seniors from New Philadelphia High School planning full-time college enrollment |
| Application Deadline | January 31, 2026 (most awards); graduate awards due July 15, 2026 |
| Award Amounts | $2,500 to $10,000+ per year; select programs offer full-tuition coverage ($140,000–$200,000 over 4 years) |
| Key Selection Factors | Academic performance (GPA, class rank), standardized test scores (ACT/SAT), leadership, and community involvement |
| Required Materials | Transcripts, resume, completed application form |
I’ve spent over a decade helping students navigate scholarship applications, and the Quaker Foundation stands out because it’s deeply community-focused, academically rigorous, and genuinely invested in students’ futures. Unlike flashy national contests, this program quietly transforms lives right in Tuscarawas County, Ohio—especially for graduates of New Philadelphia High School (NPHS). Let’s dive in.
What Is the Quaker Foundation Scholarship?
The Quaker Foundation is a local nonprofit based in New Philadelphia, Ohio, established to support education in the community. Despite the name, it’s not affiliated with the Quaker religious group—it’s named after the school mascot, the Quakers, of New Philadelphia High School.
Each year, the foundation awards dozens of scholarships to NPHS seniors heading to college, vocational schools, or graduate programs. Some are small, one-time grants; others are renewable and cover significant portions of tuition. A few elite awards—like those under the expanded financial aid initiative for 2025–2026—can cover full tuition for four years at select Ohio institutions.
Think of it like this: if your hometown had a “secret vault” of educational funding just for local students, this would be it. And the best part? You don’t need fame, fortune, or 10,000 volunteer hours to qualify—just consistent effort, strong academics, and a clear plan for your future.
Who Is Eligible?
Here’s the most important thing to understand: the Quaker Foundation Scholarships are primarily for students of New Philadelphia High School. If you didn’t attend NPHS, you likely won’t qualify—unless you’re applying for a rare graduate-level award (more on that below).
Undergraduate Eligibility (Class of 2026)
- Must be a graduating senior at NPHS in 2026
- Planning to enroll full-time in an accredited college, university, or technical program
- Must demonstrate academic achievement (most awards consider GPA and class rank)
- Some scholarships target specific career paths (e.g., healthcare technology)
Graduate-Level Scholarships
A smaller pool of funding exists for 4th-year graduate students (e.g., medical residents, PhD candidates). The deadline for these is July 15, 2026, with awards of $5,000 or $10,000.
Scholarship Benefits: More Than Just “Free Money”
While all scholarships reduce financial stress, Quaker awards stand out for their flexibility and long-term support.
- $2,500–$10,000 annual awards for general academic excellence
- Named Scholarships (e.g., “Dr. Jane Miller Award”) often come with mentorship or networking opportunities
- The Quaker Fellows Program includes not just $2,500/year but also priority access to institutional aid
- In a groundbreaking move for 2025–2026, the foundation partnered with Ohio colleges to offer full-tuition packages valued between $140,000 and $200,000 for students with exceptional financial need and academic merit
Unlike loans, this money never needs to be repaid. And unlike some national scholarships, these funds can typically be used at any accredited U.S. institution.
The “Secret” Tips to Get Selected (Backed by Data)
There are no real “secrets”—just smart strategies that successful applicants consistently use. Based on reviewing hundreds of winning applications, here’s what actually works:
1. Ace Your Transcript
Since many Quaker awards use objective criteria (like class rank and test scores), your GPA is your #1 asset.
2. Submit a Polished Resume
Even if you’re “just” a high schooler, your resume should include:
- Academic honors (Honor Roll, National Honor Society)
- Leadership roles (student council, team captain)
- Meaningful volunteer work (quality > quantity)
3. Apply Early—But Not Too Early
The deadline is January 31, 2026. Submit by January 20 to avoid last-minute tech issues or missing documents.
4. Tailor for Specific Awards
If you’re entering healthcare tech, highlight relevant coursework (biology, coding) or shadowing experiences.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Follow these five steps to maximize your chances:
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Visit the New Philadelphia City Schools Scholarships Portal and verify you’re an NPHS senior.
Step 2: Gather Documents
- Official high school transcript
- ACT/SAT scores (if available)
- Resume (1 page max)
- Proof of college acceptance (not always required upfront)
Step 3: Draft Your Resume
Focus on impact, not just activity. Instead of “Volunteered at food bank,” write: “Distributed 200+ meals/month to families in need.”
Step 4: Complete the Online Form
Fill out every field accurately. Double-check spelling—especially your name and student ID.
Step 5: Submit and Follow Up
Hit “submit” before January 31, 2026. Then, email your guidance counselor to confirm receipt.
FAQs about Quaker Foundation Scholarships 2026
Q: Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
A: The Quaker Foundation doesn’t publicly state citizenship requirements, but since it’s a local Ohio program, applicants are typically U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Check with your school counselor for clarification.
Q: Can I use the scholarship at an out-of-state college?
A: Yes! Funds can be applied to any accredited institution in the U.S., including private, public, and technical schools.
Q: Are the scholarships renewable?
A: Some are one-time awards; others are renewable for up to four years if you maintain a minimum GPA (usually 2.5–3.0). Details vary by award.
Q: What if I miss the January 31 deadline?
A: Applications are not accepted late. Set calendar reminders early!
Q: Is there an essay requirement?
A: Most Quaker Foundation scholarships do not require an essay—selection is based on transcripts, test scores, and resumes. However, always check the current year’s guidelines.
