State Department Federal Credit Union Scholarship Program

Investing in Our Members’ Education

SDFCU’s Scholarship Program was created to empower our members’ educational goals while honoring the legacy of our founders and volunteers. Since 1977, the program has helped hundreds of students pursue undergraduate education by helping with college expenses.

Apply Today!

 

A group of college students with books, sitting outdoors on campus | Credit Union Scholarships

How the Scholarship Program Works 

Members who meet the eligibility criteria below can submit an application to be considered for our scholarship awards. All applications will be reviewed by our Scholarship Committee.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • All applicants must be an SDFCU member with their own account in good standing.
  • Currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program and have completed 12 credit hours of coursework at an accredited college or university (AP class credits do not count).
  • Achieved a minimum 3.0 GPA and submitted official/sealed transcripts.
  • Completed application must be submitted by the deadline.

2026 Scholarship Application 

  • Improved digital application: Members are encouraged to apply online using our updated digital platform, which streamlines and simplifies the submission process.
  • Deadline: All applications must be submitted by Friday, April 10, 2026. Only complete applications will be eligible for review.
  • Award notifications and distribution: All applicants will be notified of their results by July 3, 2026. Scholarship funds will be deposited into the recipient’s SDFCU savings account.

Apply Online

Not a member? Joining SDFCU online is easy! 

Please email scholarship@sdfcu.org for more information about our credit union’s scholarships.

 

Scholarship Program FAQs

Where do I submit my application?

You are encouraged to apply online through our updated digital application, which is designed to make the submission process faster and easier. 

If you are unable to apply online, you may mail a completed application form along with your official sealed transcript to: Scholarship Coordinator, State Department Federal Credit Union, 1630 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. 

All mailed materials must be postmarked by April 10, 2026.

Is the competition open to high school seniors heading to college?

No, our scholarship competition is available for students currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program who have completed at least 12 credit hours at an accredited college or university (AP courses do not count). The program is not available to students currently in high school or in graduate programs. 

I’m a senior college student, can I apply for the scholarship?

Yes, if you are an undergraduate senior during our application open period (through April 10, 2026) you are eligible to apply.

Can graduate students apply?

No, the competition is open to undergraduate students only.

My family member currently has an account with SDFCU, can I apply?

Each applicant for the scholarship competition must have his/her own account in good standing with SDFCU. If you need to open an account, you can do so online or at any of our branches. 

I am transferring schools next Fall. Can I apply?

Yes, you may apply. You must include an acceptance letter from your new school.

I applied last year. Can I apply again this year?

All applicants from a previous year, including previous winners, are welcome to apply again if they meet the requirements.

How much money will the winners receive?

Each year, the Scholarship Committee determines how to distribute the total award pool among the strongest applicants. For 2026, the total scholarship pool is $106,000, which will be allocated across a group of selected winners. As part of this total, the Stephen K. Fischel Memorial Scholarship provides a $10,000 award to one distinguished recipient.

How are the winners decided?

Each year, the Credit Union has a scholarship committee made up of members from the Board of Directors. Applicants are evaluated based on their overall application including academic achievement and a personal statement.

When and how will I be notified of the results of the scholarship competition?

All applicants will be notified of the results via email on or before July 3, 2026. Be sure to supply your email address on the application.

How do the winners receive their money?

The award amount is deposited into the winners’ SDFCU accounts.