S.E.T. Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by S.E.T. Educational Fund
Updated: Application deadline for 2026 submissions — must be postmarked by May 1, 2026.
Are you frustrated by the steady outflow of people and businesses leaving Michigan? The S.E.T. Educational Fund is working to change that.
About the S.E.T. Educational Fund
- Founded in Michigan in 1998, the S.E.T. Educational Fund awards scholarships to Michigan residents who are enrolled in Michigan colleges and universities.
- We look for students who have strong academic records and a demonstrated commitment to serving their communities.
- Since our founding we have awarded 16 scholarships. Our recipients maintain a graduation rate above 90%, and several early awardees have become contributors to the Fund.
This year’s awards
- We will award two (2) scholarships of $8,500 each.
- The Fund is a 501(c)(3) public charity; donations are tax-deductible. Uniquely, donors in a given year help select the scholarship recipient(s) — your contribution directly influences how funds are distributed rather than being handled through an anonymous process with high overhead.
Why it matters
A scholarship helps an individual student, but the effects ripple outward — supporting local communities, strengthening Michigan colleges and universities, and helping employers find a well-educated local workforce. Apply, get involved, or donate to help rebuild Michigan.
Eligibility
- Must be a Michigan resident.
- Must be an undergraduate student (either accepted for the upcoming Fall term at a Michigan public university or already enrolled as an undergraduate).
- Must demonstrate strong academics and community service.
Required application materials (send all items together in one standard envelope)
- A letter of recommendation from a non-family member describing the applicant’s community service. Please be specific about hours, time period, duties, and accomplishments.
- Most recent Form 1040 tax returns for all parents (or your own Form 1040 if you are not a dependent). Redact any Social Security numbers before submitting.
- A copy of a Michigan driver’s license or other photo ID that proves Michigan residence.
- A Letter of Acceptance from a Michigan public university or an unofficial transcript showing that the applicant will be an undergraduate in the upcoming Fall term.
Submission instructions and deadlines
- Mail all required documents together in a single, standard envelope to the address shown on the application form.
- Your envelope must be postmarked on or before May 1, 2026.
- Missing documentation may result in disqualification at the discretion of the Fund’s executor.
- If an applicant receives award funds based on false information, that person will be required to repay the full award amount plus court costs and interest calculated from the award date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
- Read and complete every requirement listed on the application’s Requirements page and mail your packet to the address provided on that form.
Should the recommendation letter be mailed separately?
- No. Please include recommendation letters in the same envelope as the other application materials so they can be matched easily.
Do transcripts need to be official?
- No. An unofficial photocopy of the transcript is acceptable as long as the university name is visible.
Can graduate students apply?
- No. Scholarships are limited to undergraduate students.
What if I don’t have a valid Michigan driver’s license?
- A passport will be accepted if accompanied by additional proof of Michigan residency.
What if my parents or I haven’t filed last year’s 1040 yet?
- Wait until the 1040 is available and submit it with the rest of your materials.
What happens if my application arrives after the deadline?
- If it misses the deadline, it may be considered for the following year’s award provided the applicant will still be an undergraduate the next year.
How is "financial need" determined?
- Need is assessed relative to other applications and is evaluated using several factors. Financial need is only one component of our overall selection process. If the rest of your application is strong, you should still submit it.
Questions or to obtain the application form? Refer to the application packet for the mailing address and any additional details.