The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Scholarships program embodies a powerful blend of education, heritage preservation, and a deep-rooted commitment to patriotism. This renowned lineage-based women’s service organization, founded in 1890, has continually demonstrated its dedication to the principles of liberty and civic responsibility. Through its extensive and diverse array of scholarships, the DAR provides invaluable financial support to students seeking higher education.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Scholarships program offers a wide array of financial aid opportunities to students pursuing higher education. As one of the largest and most prestigious lineage-based women’s service organizations in the United States, DAR is dedicated to preserving American history, promoting education, and fostering patriotism. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the DAR Scholarships program:
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Historic Roots
Founded in 1890, the DAR has a rich history of supporting education and patriotism.
DAR members are descendants of the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. This lineage-based organization is deeply committed to the principles of liberty and civic responsibility.
Diverse Scholarships
The DAR Scholarships program encompasses a wide range of scholarships designed to meet the educational needs and goals of students from various backgrounds.
Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students pursuing a diverse array of fields.
Financial Aid for Education:
DAR Scholarships are designed to provide financial assistance to students pursuing higher education. This aid may cover tuition, books, fees, and other educational expenses.
Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, community involvement, and financial need.
Wide-Ranging Focus Areas:
DAR Scholarships cover various fields of study, including history, political science, nursing, medicine, law, education, and more.
Some scholarships have specific criteria, such as the American Indian Scholarship, which supports Native American students, or the Political Science Scholarship, aimed at students majoring in political science.
Encouraging Patriotism:
DAR scholarships often require applicants to demonstrate a commitment to the principles of patriotism and good citizenship. Recipients are encouraged to uphold these values.
Strengthening Education:
The DAR Scholarships program is rooted in a strong commitment to education. By providing financial support, the program helps students pursue their academic goals and contribute to their communities.
Application and Selection:
Applicants for DAR Scholarships must meet specific eligibility criteria for each scholarship.
The selection process typically involves academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and, in some cases, a statement of lineage linking the applicant to a Revolutionary War patriot.
Civic Engagement:
DAR Scholars are encouraged to engage in civic activities, support historical preservation, and promote patriotism.
Diversity and Inclusivity:
The DAR Scholarships program demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusivity by offering scholarships that cater to students from various backgrounds. Scholarships like the American Indian Scholarship are specifically designed to support Native American students, ensuring that a broad spectrum of students benefits from this program.
Variety of Scholarships:
- Within the DAR Scholarships program, there are scholarships that cater to specific fields of study. For example, the Medical and Nursing Scholarships target students pursuing careers in medicine and nursing, while the American Indian Scholarship supports Native American students in any field.
- The Christopher Columbus Essay Contest, another DAR initiative, encourages high school students to explore American history by writing essays on a selected historical topic. Winners receive scholarships.
Tradition of Service:
DAR members are renowned for their tradition of service. The organization’s commitment to fostering education and patriotism aligns with its dedication to preserving historical sites, promoting historical education, and supporting the armed forces.
Scholarships with a Purpose:
Some DAR scholarships have specific objectives, such as the Frances Crawford Marvin American Indian Scholarship, which aims to encourage Native American students to pursue higher education and, in turn, contribute to the betterment of their communities.
Eligibility and Application Process:
- Eligibility criteria for DAR Scholarships can vary, so students should carefully review the requirements for each scholarship.
- The application process typically involves academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and sometimes proof of lineage connecting the applicant to a Revolutionary War patriot.
Encouragement of Historical Study:
DAR places a strong emphasis on the study of American history, and some of their scholarships support students pursuing degrees in history and related fields. This focus helps maintain an appreciation for the nation’s heritage.
Legacy of Giving:
DAR has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships since its scholarship program’s inception. By continuing to support education, the organization perpetuates its legacy of giving and remains a significant contributor to higher education.
To Apply For DAR Scholarships . . .
The scholarship application portal is now open. The application process is entirely online through the Academic Works portal. The Portal is open for the coming year from November 1, 2023, through January 31, 2024, at 11:59 pm (Hawaii Time).
Scholarships
Each year the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) awards multiple scholarships to students showing dedication to the pursuit of higher education in diverse areas of study including history, economics, law, political science, medicine, nursing, occupational and physical therapy, elementary and secondary education, chemistry, math, science and English.
DAR’s scholarships are awarded and judged without regard to gender, race, color, religion, national origin, or disability.
- Applicants must be citizens of the United States.
- Applicants must attend or plan to attend an accredited college or university in the United States.
- All multi-year scholarships, typically renewable for up to four years, must be for consecutive years of attendance.
- Awards are based on academic excellence, commitment to the field of study, and/or financial need, or other restrictions on specific scholarships.
- Awards are placed on deposit with the recipient’s college or university and any unused portion shall be returned to the DAR.
- Applicants are only eligible to receive one scholarship from the DAR.
The DAR Scholarship Committee Now Has an Online Submission Process
DAR is pleased to announce all students applying for scholarships offered by the DAR Scholarship Committee will submit their applications using the online application portal below. Emailed or mailed applications will no longer be accepted unless you apply for the Margaret Howard Hamilton Scholarship.
In essence, the DAR Scholarships program serves as a testament to the enduring commitment of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution to education, patriotism, and historical preservation. By supporting students from diverse backgrounds and fostering an appreciation for American history, the DAR ensures that the values and principles of the nation’s founding continue to thrive in future generations.
