The cost of higher education in the United States continues to climb, often placing a heavy burden on families and students.
For many high-achieving African American high school seniors, the Ron Brown Scholarship Program (RBSP) offers more than just financial relief, it provides a pathway to leadership, mentorship, and a lifelong professional network.
Named after the late Ronald H. Brown, the first African American Secretary of Commerce, this prestigious program is dedicated to uplifting intellectually gifted, community-minded students.
It is highly competitive, but the rewards are transformative. Beyond the $40,000 scholarship, recipients gain access to a powerful network of alumni and professionals committed to their success.
Scholarship Summary
The Ron Brown Scholarship is one of the most coveted awards for African American high school seniors.
It is not restricted to any specific career path or university; scholars may study any discipline at any accredited four-year institution in the United States.
The program focuses on four main pillars inspired by Ronald H. Brown’s legacy: public service, community engagement, business entrepreneurship, and global citizenship.
The selection committee looks for students who embody these values and demonstrate a strong desire to make a positive impact on the world.
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
The financial award is significant, but the “secret sauce” of the program as described by alumni is the mentorship and community support.
| Benefit | Description |
| Financial Award | $40,000 total, disbursed as $10,000 annually for four years. |
| Flexibility | Funds can be used for tuition, fees, books, and room & board at any accredited 4-year US college. |
| Mentorship | Access to 1-on-1 mentoring from industry leaders and program alumni. |
| Networking | Entry into the “Leaders Network,” connecting scholars with career opportunities and internships. |
| Leadership Development | Paid expenses to attend leadership conferences and service gatherings. |
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Before beginning the rigorous application process, it is crucial to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements. The RBSP is specifically designed for high school seniors who intend to begin college the following fall.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the Ron Brown Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
Ethnicity
Must be Black/African American.
Citizenship
Must be a U.S. citizen or hold a permanent resident visa card.
Education Status
Must be a current high school senior at the time of application. (Current college students are not eligible).
Academic Excellence
While there is no strict minimum GPA, successful applicants typically demonstrate superior academic performance.
Leadership & Service
Must exhibit exceptional leadership potential and a strong record of community service.
Financial Need
Must demonstrate financial need (determined via family income data).
Note on Standardized Tests: The program is currently test-optional. You are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, but if you have strong scores, submitting them can strengthen your application.
How to Apply for the Ron Brown Scholarship
The application process is entirely online. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of what you will need to do:
Prepare Your Documents
Gather your high school transcript, a listing of your extracurricular activities/honors, and family financial information (parent/guardian tax returns).
Write Your Essays
You will need to write two essays (approx. 500 words each). One answers a specific prompt provided by the program, and the second is a topic of your choice (you may use a college application essay).
Request Recommendations
You need two letters of recommendation.
- One must be from a high school counselor, teacher, or principal.
- The second can be from a mentor, coach, employer, or community leader (not a family member).
Submit Online
Complete the application form on the official RBSP website before the deadline.
2026 Application Timeline
Missing a deadline results in immediate disqualification. Use this timeline to stay on track for the 2026 scholarship cycle (for students graduating high school in Spring 2026).
| Date | Milestone |
| September 2025 | Application opens online. |
| December 1, 2025 | Final Application Deadline. All materials must be submitted. |
| December 15, 2025 | Deadline for counselors/recommenders to upload letters. |
| January 2026 | Round 1 & 2 reviews by admissions staff and external volunteers. |
| Mid-February 2026 | Semifinalists are notified and interviewed virtually. |
| March 1, 2026 | Finalists are notified. |
| March 2026 | Finalist Weekend in Washington, D.C. (Final interviews). |
| April 1, 2026 | Winners (Scholars) and Captains are notified. |
Ron Brown Captains: The Top 2-3%
Even if you are not selected as one of the 20 Ron Brown Scholars, applying is still highly beneficial.
The program designates the top 2–3% of remaining applicants (approximately 200–250 students) as Ron Brown Captains.
Captains do not receive the $40,000 cash award, but they are invited to join the Ron Brown Leaders Network.
This grants them access to many of the same professional development resources, mentorship opportunities, and internship connections as the Scholars.
Being named a Captain is a prestigious honor that signals high potential to future employers and graduate schools.
Tips for a Winning Application
With over 5,000 applicants competing for only 20 spots, the acceptance rate is less than 1%. Here is how to make your application stand out:
Highlight “Service,” Not Just “Activities”
The selection committee isn’t just counting clubs. They want to see impact. How have you improved your community? How does your service reflect the values of Ron Brown?
Tell Your Unique Story
Use the essays to show who you are beyond your grades. Discuss your challenges, your motivations for public service, and your vision for the future.
Choose Recommenders Wisely
Don’t just pick the teacher who gave you an ‘A’. Pick the recommender who can speak specifically to your character, maturity, and leadership ability.
Submit Early
While the deadline is December 1st, submitting early ensures you avoid technical glitches and gives your recommenders ample time to upload their letters by December 15th.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the scholarship for a specific major?
No, you are not limited. You can pursue any academic discipline, from Engineering to Art History, as long as it is at an accredited four-year university.
If my parents are divorced, whose income do I list?
Initially, list the income of the parent(s) or guardian(s) you live with, as well as the non-custodial parent if possible.
If you advance to the semifinalist stage, the program will require verification of income for all parents/stepparents to assess need accurately.
I missed the deadline. Can I fax or email my application?
No. Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances.
Final thoughts
Start preparing your essays and gathering your documents early. The investment of time you make now could pay dividends for the rest of your academic and professional life.
For more details and to access the application portal, visit the official Ron Brown Scholar Program website.
Emily Carter is an academic writer with 7+ years of experience in education research, specializing in scholarships, admissions, and student calculators. She creates clear, reliable and helpful content to support students in making informed academic decisions.
