SECU High School Scholarship Program
Scholarship Sponsored by SECU Foundation
Introduction
The SECU Foundation created the People Helping People scholarship to expand access to higher education for students throughout North Carolina. Since the program began distributing funds in 2005, the Foundation has committed more than $81 million in total and currently devotes in excess of $5 million each year to this effort.
High School Scholarship Program
The People Helping People high school scholarship is a four‑year award intended for North Carolina public high school seniors who plan to enroll full time at one of the 16 constituent campuses of the University of North Carolina System. Every one of the state’s 115 Local Education Agencies (LEAs)/school districts is guaranteed at least one scholarship. Each award is worth $10,000 in total, paid at $1,250 per semester for up to eight consecutive semesters.
Selection and application process
Scholarship recipients are chosen by the Scholarship Selection Committee in each LEA and must meet all program eligibility requirements. The LEA’s Scholarship Selection Committee is responsible for submitting recipient information to the Foundation; the SECU Foundation does not review individual student applications. For details about timelines, application procedures, and local deadlines, students should consult their high school guidance counselor.
Why this matters
SECU Foundation’s People Helping People scholarship reflects the Foundation’s commitment to supporting communities across North Carolina and helping public high school students pursue college.
Eligibility requirements
- Must be a current senior at a North Carolina public high school
- Must be an SECU member or eligible for membership through a parent or guardian
- Must be a resident of North Carolina and qualify for in‑state tuition
- Must have been accepted as a full‑time undergraduate at one of the 16 University of North Carolina constituent campuses
- Must have an unweighted GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
- Must demonstrate leadership, strong character and integrity, and involvement in the community
If you have questions about eligibility or the nomination process, contact your school’s guidance office.