Japanese American Service Committee Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by Japanese American Service Committee
INTRODUCTION
JASC awards scholarships that reflect our commitment to community-focused care, service, and the preservation of Japanese American history and heritage. We recognize that meaningful community engagement takes many shapes—cultural exploration, caregiving, advocacy, artistic endeavors, volunteering, and lifelong learning all qualify as valuable contributions.
This application is intended to allow applicants to present an honest, thoughtful account of their experiences, values, and future plans rather than conform to a narrow checklist of activities. Applicants are not required to be of Japanese descent and do not need prior involvement with JASC to apply.
We are grateful to the families and individuals whose generosity funds these scholarships. Awards are made in honor of the following supporters and namesakes (current and past): Sam Fukaye Scholarship; Fred Toguri Scholarship; William T. Yamamoto Scholarship; Frank T. Kambara Scholarship; Jean E. Taketoshi Scholarship; John (Jun) Iwaoka Scholarship; Dr. Newton K. Wesley Scholarship; Taketo (Tak) Tomiyama Scholarship.
ELIGIBILITY
To be considered for a JASC scholarship, applicants must satisfy all of the following conditions:
1. Be enrolled, either full-time or part-time, at an accredited school of advanced learning for the 2026–27 academic year.
2. There is no requirement to be of Japanese ancestry, nor to be a United States citizen.
3. Submit every document listed as required on the application form; incomplete applications will not be considered.
4. Award payments will be made to the student after the applicant provides JASC with proof of enrollment at an accredited school of advanced learning.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Applications will be assessed using the following factors:
1. Community involvement and service: The nature and impact of the applicant’s service to others, and how those experiences have influenced the applicant.
2. Academic commitment: Evidence of dedication to education and intellectual growth. Academic performance (grades) will be taken into account as an indicator of seriousness about higher education; the rigor and types of courses pursued will also be reviewed.
3. Alignment with Japanese American values: Demonstrated commitment to principles such as community-building, confronting injustice, and communicating cultural and historical lessons to contribute to a better society.