Merit Achievement Scholarship for Graduate School

CEF is committed to supporting a generation of promising Coptic American youth as they continue their higher education journey into graduate school in the United States. This $2,000 scholarship is a merit-based award to encourage and support the efforts of those who have been admitted to graduate school.

The 2024 Merit Achievement Scholarship for Graduate School

Student Eligibility:

  • Must have attended an accredited undergraduate school in the US

  • Must be an active member in the Coptic Orthodox Church, and residing in the US

  • Must possess an undergraduate degree (BA or BS) from an accredited US University or College

  • Has been accepted or continuing their education at an accredited graduate school in the USA and will be in school for the 2024-2025 academic year 

Application Process

  1. Complete online application

  2. Write a personal statement (500 words max): What experiences have you had that have led you to apply to this academic field of study? We want to learn more about your experiences that led you to apply to your graduate program and your goals. Information to include in this statement: your personal experience, academic background, research, clinical, or work experience. How will this degree and program help you reach your career goals? What do you want to do with this education to make a difference in your given field? 

  3. Write an essay responding to this question (300 words max.): “Why did you choose your graduate field of education and how will you use your knowledge and expertise to help the Coptic community?”

  4. Submit two recommendation letters from credible people who have a close relationship with the applicant and are aware of their character traits and personal development (professor, academic advisor, priest/ father of confession, church ministry or volunteer supervisor, and/or any other type of mentor). Letters of recommendation should be uploaded and attached, or emailed directly by the recommender to katherine@copticedu.org.

  5. Submit a copy of Undergraduate Unofficial Transcript

  6. Submit Resume or CV

  7. Submit Letter of Admission to the Graduate School you are attending for the academic year 2024-2025

Application and Decision Timeline

  • Deadline: June 30th, 2024

  • Final Decision communicated to awardee: July 31st, 2024

  • Award Ceremony at Awardees own church: August 2024

Earn additional points when you upload any of the following items:

  • Submit any additional coursework that applies to your graduate field of study (classes taken after graduating with your bachelors e.g., post-bacc, community college courses, or master’s degree transcript if going to a doctorate)

  • Self-Portrait photo of you

  • Complete the MAS-Graduate Application Questionnaire (link provided when you submit application at the end)

Important to Note

  • Applicants must have been accepted or continuing their education at an accredited graduate school in the USA and will be in school for the 2024-2025 academic year

  • Be prepared to finish your submission at the same session as the application will not allow you to save and continue at a later time.

  • Applicants who have previously received CEF’s Graduate Achievement Scholarship are not eligible

  • Late applications will not be considered.