The Kiwanis Club of West Palm Beach Foundation, Inc.
 
 School Year 2026-2027 Scholarship Application
Promoting Excellence Through Education
 
 
Next year's application will open before the end of January 2027.
 
Please review the information below and then proceed to the application. 
 
DEADLINE
All applications must be submitted online, along with all supporting materials, by 11:59 p.m. on March 13, 2026.
 

For questions regarding this scholarship or the application process, contact Fran Thew, Scholarship Coordinator, at kiwaniswpbscholarship@gmail.com or call 561-346-5264.

 
 
OVERVIEW
The Kiwanis Club of West Palm Beach Foundation, Inc. awards approximately $150,000 annually in college scholarships.  Since 1970, the Foundation has disbursed millions of dollars in post-secondary educational aid.  The scholarship program aims to support students maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA, demonstrating good citizenship and community service, and showing financial need.  Scholarship amounts vary based on the student's financial situation and the cost of attendance, typically ranging from $2,500 to $4,000 per year.  Recipients may renew their scholarships in subsequent years if they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
 
Because these scholarships are need-based, family incomes exceeding $90,000 may reduce the likelihood of receiving an award.  Applicants must submit copies of the FAFSA Student Aid Report (SAR), income tax returns for parents and students, and a current property tax bill or assessment.  To qualify, students must plan to attend a full-time post-secondary program.  High school applicants must reside and attend school (or be homeschooled) within the geographic area bounded by PGA Boulevard to the north, Lake Okeechobee to the west, and Hypoluxo Road to the south.  The scholarships are awarded without discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, or disability.
 
Important Note: The application is a Google Form.  To complete the form and upload files such as recommendation letters, you must have a Gmail account.  If you do not have one, it is free to create, and instructions are available at:  https://support.google.com/mail/answer/56256?hl=en.
 
 
We recommended that you start the application early and avoid waiting until the deadline.  The form allows you to begin, save progress, and return later to revise or complete your application.
 
Application Link (please read the overview and instructions carefully before applying):  https://tinyurl.com/WPBKiwApp2026-27
 

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

For Freshman Applicants:
  1. Complete the relevant sections of the application form.
  2. Write a personal statement or essay describing your aspirations as a prospective college student and future community member.  Include reasons for pursuing higher education, your goals, post-college plans, and why you selected your intended colleges.
  3. Provide two reference letters from individuals outside your family that speak to your qualifications, leadership, and community involvement.
  4. Submit a detailed resume highlighting community service, volunteer activities, and leadership roles.
  5. Provide an official high school transcript covering seven semesters, including SAT/ACT scores.
  6. If you have already enrolled in college, submit an official college transcript showing grades and GPA.
  7. Include a copy of your most recent income tax return (pages 1 & 2 and Schedule A), with Social Security Numbers redacted.
  8. If claimed as a dependent, submit your parents’ or guardians’ latest income tax return (pages 1 & 2 and Schedule A), with Social Security Numbers redacted.
  9. Provide a current property tax bill or assessment if your family owns property.
  10. Upload a complete copy of your FAFSA form, available at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.
  11. Include any additional information you believe would assist the Foundation in evaluating your application.
For Returning Recipients & Graduate Applicants:
  1. Complete the relevant sections of the application form.
  2. Write a personal statement detailing your background, interests, academic and personal progress, goals, and any other information you wish the committee to consider.
  3. Provide two recent reference letters (from within the last year) from non-family members addressing your qualifications, leadership, and community service.
  4. Submit a detailed resume including community service, volunteer work, and leadership experiences.
  5. Provide an official transcript of college grades and GPA.
  6. Include your latest income tax return (pages 1 & 2 and Schedule A), with Social Security Numbers redacted.
  7. If claimed as a dependent, submit your parents’ or guardians’ latest income tax return (pages 1 & 2 and Schedule A), with Social Security Numbers redacted.
  8. Provide current property tax documentation if applicable.
  9. Include any additional information you believe would support your application.