San Fernando Valley Links Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Links Incorporated

Introduction
The San Fernando Valley (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated is dedicated to helping residents of the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, Antelope Valley, and nearby communities meet their educational objectives by awarding academic scholarships.

HBCU Initiative
The Chapter strongly supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and provides a scholarship specifically for a student of African descent who is attending an HBCU.

Scholarship Overview
The Chapter awards one-time academic scholarships to applicants who demonstrate strong academic performance, community involvement, and/or financial need, and who can verify enrollment in an accredited college, university, or graduate program.

Types of Scholarships Available
- Graduating high school senior
- Continuing undergraduate student
- Graduate student
- HBCU student

Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Have a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Live in the San Fernando Valley, Antelope Valley, or Santa Clarita Valley. Foster youth in these areas are especially encouraged to apply.
- Provide documentation confirming full-time enrollment for Fall 2026.

Application Packet — Required Documents (submit as a single packet)
All of the following items must be included together for an application to be considered:
1. Completed and signed application form (if the applicant is under 18, a parent or guardian must also sign).
2. Official transcript (must be sealed by the school records office to be considered official).
3. One letter of recommendation that addresses accomplishments in the following areas:
- Academic achievement
- Community service
- Extracurricular activities
- Employment experience
4. An essay written in response to the essay prompt and instructions (see Basis of Selection).
5. A recent, high-resolution headshot (.jpeg preferred).

Photo and Publicity Release
By submitting a photograph, the applicant authorizes the San Fernando Valley (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated to reproduce and use the photo, digital images, films, and likenesses for publicity and promotional purposes (including publications, brochures, advertisements, and other media) without further notice or compensation. The applicant releases the Chapter from any proprietary or copyright claims in these images, which will remain Chapter property.

Submission Deadline and Other Conditions
The complete application packet must be postmarked or emailed no later than 11:59 p.m. PDT on January 31, 2026. Materials will not be returned. Applications that are incomplete or received after the deadline will not be reviewed.

Basis of Selection
Award decisions will consider the following factors:
- Academic accomplishments
- Participation in extracurricular activities, leadership positions, community service, and/or employment history
- Honors and recognitions received
- Quality of the essay, including writing ability, critical thinking, and creativity
- Content of the letter of recommendation

Contact the San Fernando Valley (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated if you have questions or need clarification about the application process.