SCHOLAR PROGRAM

ScholarShot has developed a proven formula in which over 90% of our Scholars earn vocational, associates or undergraduate degrees in 1, 3 or 5 years respectively, and with less than 1/3rd the debt of their peers. Our research shows that first-generation students succeed in graduating from college with the assistance of academic, financial, and emotional support.

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The Scholar Program provides first-generation, grant-eligible Texas students with personalized guidance and financial assistance, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed. By combining academic support, career preparation, and a strong community network, ScholarShot helps students stay on track and achieve their educational and professional goals.

The ScholarShot Difference Turing Dropouts into Degrees

Our application is open now until February 1st.

Eligbility Requirements:

  • Texas Resident
  • Attend In-State Public Institution
  • Pell or Texas Grant Eligible
  • <60 college credit hours
  • 17-25 years of age
  • First-generation College student

Items Required:

  • Completed ScholarShot application
  • Completed FAFSA or TASFA Application
  • High-School and/or College Transcript
  • SAT or ACT (if attending a Four-Year Institution)

We recruit Scholars from all over North Texas. By clicking on the different graphs, you can see which ISD’s our Scholars are from and sort by demographics, degree type, and field of study.

2024-25 Performance Dashboard

(click on graphics below to see detail)

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Academic Support

ScholarShot Scholars are paired with a dedicated Academic Manager who provides continuous support, guidance, and advocacy throughout their college journey. From degree planning to budgeting and emotional support, this partnership ensures students stay on track to graduate. Scholars submit bi-monthly reports on their progress, allowing managers to intervene and motivate. With a 1:50 manager-to-scholar ratio, our program builds strong, trusting relationships that drive success and make a lasting impact.

Financial Support

Before each academic year, our Academic Managers visit with Scholars to review institutional award letters. The managers assess the cost of attendance and look at the Scholar’s award letter, outside scholarships, and personal contribution to determine the student’s ScholarShot budget. Our Scholars are eligible for up to $6,000 to assist them with their expenses.

These funds are not exclusive to college related expenses as they can request support for living expenses, such as rent, groceries and gas. The funding varies according to the institution the student is attending: up to $3,000 per year for a 2-year institution, or up to $6,000 per year for a 4 year institution. Funding is only available for in-state accredited public institutions.

Kassandra and Lesly in front of ScholarShot sign
Woman with glasses sitting in a chair smiling at a party

Social-Emotional Support

Imagine being a first-generation student accepted to a well-known four-year university. It looks great on paper, and it feels exciting, but no one has prepared you for the emotional challenges ahead. This “imposter syndrome” can emerge when you realize you don’t look or speak like your classmates, or when they easily ace their quizzes while you struggle. Soon, you start questioning whether you belong, and “fight or flight” instincts take over.

ScholarShot encourages students to consider these emotional factors before committing to a school that may not be a good fit. Nearly all of our Scholars experience this emotional gap in their first semester, regardless of where they enroll. ScholarShot’s AMs provide personal support, helping students realize they belong, and teaching them to seek out professors, tutoring, and study groups to overcome these challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is ScholarShot?

ScholarShot is a college completion program providing financial support, academic support, and social/emotional support to first-generation college students throughout their college journey.

Is this a Scholarship?

No, ScholarShot is a college completion program that provides financial support, academic support, and social/emotional support to first-generation college students throughout their college journey.

Who can apply?

View eligibility requirements above.

Is there a GPA requirement?

No, there is no GPA requirement to apply. Applications are reviewed individually, and students are selected based on need, grit, and their college plan.

How much funding is available?

Funding varies according to the institution the student is attending:

  • Up to $3,000/year for a 2-year institution
  • Up to $6,000/year for a 4-year institution

Funding is only available for in-state accredited public institutions.

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted no later than February 1st by 11:59 pm. To be eligible, all required sections must be completed, and all appropriate documents uploaded.

Where do I access the ScholarShot application?

To begin your application, please visit scholarshot.smapply.org. Once you press Submit, your application will be transmitted to ScholarShot for review.

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Helpful Resources to Complete Your Application Successfully