Edna Blum Scholarship 2026: Get Up to $5,000 Funding (NYC Residents Only)

The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) has announced a targeted funding opportunity for students living in the Big Apple. The Edna M. Blum Endowed Scholarship is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year. This scholarship is exclusively for New York City residents.

Selected recipients can receive a one-time award of up to $5,000 to help cover educational expenses. This is a need-based scholarship open to both undergraduate and graduate students attending any accredited 4-year university in the U.S. The deadline is fast approaching on December 12, 2025, so eligible New Yorkers must act quickly.

Scholarship Overview & Key Details

Eligibility Criteria

This scholarship has very specific residency rules. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

• Residency: You must be a resident of New York City (living in one of the 5 boroughs ONLY).
• Academic Standing: You must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
• Enrollment: You must be a full-time undergraduate or graduate student at any accredited 4-year college or university in the U.S. (You don't have to attend school in NYC, just live there).
• Financial Need: You must file a 2025-2026 FAFSA to demonstrate financial need.
• Citizenship: Open to U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents.

Application Requirements

To apply, you need to submit a complete package via the UNCF online portal. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

• Essay: Submit a one-page essay discussing your neighborhood and your career goals.
• Transcript: A recent unofficial or official academic transcript is required.

Timeline and Selection

The application window closes strictly at 5:00 PM EST on December 12, 2025. Final awards will be announced via email within 10-12 weeks of the closing date, with funds disbursed in Spring 2026.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the UNCF scholarship portal. Ensure you have your essay and FAFSA details ready before logging in.

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for Edna Blum Scholarship