Bill Countryman Scholarship 2026 , USA

The Bill Countryman Scholarship, offered annually by Credit Union 1 (CU1), provides valuable financial support to Alaskans pursuing higher education. Established in honor of long-time CU1 board member Bill Countryman, this scholarship has supported students for nearly four decades. The program reflects Bill’s belief that “education and adventure are what keep you young”—making it one of Alaska’s most accessible and inspiring financial aid opportunities.

Whether you are a high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a younger student preparing for academic enrichment through the Johns Hopkins CTY Program, this scholarship offers meaningful assistance to help you pursue your educational goals.

Scholarship Overview

Scholarship Name: Bill Countryman Scholarship
Provider: Credit Union 1 (CU1)
Award Amount: Varies
Deadline: March 31
Awards Available: Varies
Location: Alaska
Eligible Education Levels: College, vocational school, and select junior/high school programs

Degree Level

This scholarship covers a wide range of education levels:

1. Undergraduate and Vocational Students

Individuals of any age continuing education at:

Accredited colleges
Universities
Technical schools
Vocational programs

2. High School Seniors

Students preparing to enroll in a college or vocational school

3. Junior High & High School Students (Grades 7–11)

Students applying for the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) Program

This flexibility makes the Bill Countryman Scholarship one of the most inclusive scholarships available in Alaska.

Available Subjects

The scholarship does not restrict majors or fields of study. Funds may be used for any academic or career path, including:

Business
Nursing
STEM fields
Trades and technical training
Arts & humanities
Education
Health sciences
And more

All accredited programs are eligible.

Benefits

The Bill Countryman Scholarship provides several key advantages:

Flexible award amounts based on financial need
Funds can be used toward overall tuition
Open to students of all ages
No limit on how many years a student may apply
Supports both traditional and vocational pathways
Encourages community involvement and career planning
Selected students receive direct financial assistance paid to their educational institution.

Eligible Nationalities

There are no citizenship restrictions.

However, applicants must be Alaska residents and meet CU1 membership eligibility rules.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must meet one of the following three categories:

1. Individuals of Any Age Continuing Their Education

Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in:

An accredited college
University
Technical or vocational school

2. High School Seniors

Must be preparing to attend an accredited college or vocational program.

3. Junior High or High School Students (Up to 11th Grade)

Must be applying for the Johns Hopkins CTY Program.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

Be a member of Credit Union 1 (or have a parent member) for at least one year before the deadline
Demonstrate financial need
Submit proof of community involvement or extracurricular activities
Provide a written explanation of how higher education will shape your goals
Submit three letters of recommendation
Provide school transcripts
There are no minimum requirements for participation in activities—just documentation.

Important Notes

CU1 employees and their immediate family members are not eligible
Applicants may apply every year without restriction
There is no paper application—only an online submission
Funds can be used for any class or program offered by the institution
Applications cannot be saved once started, so gather documents beforehand

Application Procedure

Follow these steps to apply for the Bill Countryman Scholarship:

1. Confirm Credit Union 1 Membership

You or your parent must be a CU1 member for at least one year before the deadline.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Gather:

School transcripts
Three letters of recommendation
Documentation of community involvement or activities
Financial need information
A personal statement describing your goals

3. Complete the Online Application

When the application portal opens on January 1, fill out the digital application in one sitting.

4. Submit Before the Deadline

Deadline: March 31, 2026

Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

5. Await Notification

Selected recipients will be contacted by Credit Union 1 after review.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is eligible for the Bill Countryman Scholarship?

Any Alaska resident who is a Credit Union 1 member (or child of a member) for at least one year and is pursuing education at an accredited institution is eligible. Junior high and high school students applying to the Johns Hopkins CTY Program may also apply.

What documents are required for the Bill Countryman Scholarship application?

Applicants must submit school transcripts, three letters of recommendation, evidence of community involvement, proof of financial need, and a personal statement about educational goals.

How much money does the Bill Countryman Scholarship award?

Award amounts vary each year based on available funds and applicant need. Credit Union 1 typically distributes tens of thousands of dollars across multiple recipients.