Columbians College Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Columbians
Overview
The Columbians award between $25,000 and $50,000 in scholarship funds each year to students from the local area. Individual scholarship grants range from $1,000 to $5,000. Application forms are available via the Scholarship Applications button below.
Who is eligible
- Applicants must be high school seniors living in Bergen County or Passaic County, New Jersey.
- The completed application package must be received by May 1, 2026. Incomplete or late submissions cannot be considered.
Selection criteria
The Scholarship Committee evaluates each submission using these factors:
- Demonstrated financial need
- Academic record and achievement
- SAT or ACT scores
- Involvement in community service and extracurricular activities
- Quality of the essay submission
- Any special circumstances that impact the applicant
- Interest in Italian heritage, art, music, or culture
Re-Award (continuing support)
- The Columbians may award renewable support of up to $1,000 per year for eligible students in their sophomore, junior, and senior college years.
- Re-award recipients must continue to show strong academics and ongoing financial need.
- Applicants must re-apply for the re-award each year.
- Re-awards depend on available funds and are not guaranteed in any given year.
About the Columbians
The Columbians are an Italian‑American philanthropic organization based in New Jersey. Since our founding in 1982, we have distributed more than $2,000,000 in scholarships and hardship assistance to residents of Northern New Jersey. In addition to annual scholarships of $1,000 to $5,000, we frequently provide continued financial assistance to college students who maintain excellent academic performance and demonstrate financial need. While all Bergen and Passaic County seniors are welcome to apply, preference is given to students who combine academic excellence, extracurricular and community involvement, financial need, and an interest in Italian culture, art, or music.
Application instructions (must follow)
1. Answer every question on the form. If a question does not apply, write “None.”
2. Use the official application form. Essays must be typed. You may paste your essay into the form or attach a separate sheet; if using separate paper, do not exceed half a page. Do not exceed the space provided on the form.
3. Print legibly or type all responses not entered electronically.
4. Provide one (1) reference letter with your application.
5. Carefully review the entire packet and sign the final page where indicated. All required signatures must be included.
6. Send the following items to the address shown below:
a. Completed application form
b. One reference letter
c. Proof of financial need — either a copy of a parent’s IRS Form 1040 (including Schedules A & B from the most recent year) or the FAFSA Submission Summary. PLEASE REDACT ALL SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS.
d. Transcript (an unofficial transcript is acceptable)
e. SAT/ACT score report (PDF from College Board)
7. Do not use binders or staples; attach documents with a paper clip.
8. Mail the full application package to the address listed below.
Important notes
- Applications will not be returned; please keep copies for your records.
- Award notifications will be made in writing only. Please do not call.
Celebrating Italian culture