Apply for the Leo S. Rowe Scholarship 2025: Financial support for Latin American and Caribbean students in the U.S., focusing on STEM and environmental studies.
Latin American and Caribbean students pursuing higher education in the United States have a valuable opportunity to receive financial assistance through the Leo S. Rowe Supplementary Scholarship.
Sponsored by a significant contribution from the U.S. Permanent Mission to the Organization of American States (OAS), this scholarship is specifically designed to alleviate the financial challenges faced by international students holding F/J visas.
The scholarship aims to support students in their academic journey, helping them achieve their educational and career goals.
Scholarship Overview
The Leo S. Rowe Supplementary Scholarship is an additional financial award that provides $2,000 to eligible students.
This scholarship is intended to supplement the existing Rowe Fund, an interest-free loan program designed to support Latin American and Caribbean students studying in the U.S.
The supplementary scholarship is particularly beneficial for students who are nearing the completion of their studies, offering them additional financial relief to cover tuition and living expenses.
The scholarship’s design reflects a commitment to educational equity, recognizing the unique financial hurdles that international students often face.
By providing this extra support, the scholarship not only helps students complete their studies but also encourages them to contribute to the development and progress of their home countries upon graduation.
Focus Areas of Study
The Leo S. Rowe Supplementary Scholarship is available to students enrolled in a wide range of academic disciplines.
However, there is a particular emphasis on supporting students in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and environmental sciences.
These areas are recognized as critical for the future development of Latin America and the Caribbean, and the scholarship aims to empower students to bring back valuable skills and knowledge to their home regions.
It’s important to note that certain fields of study are excluded from this scholarship opportunity.
Students pursuing degrees in medical fields, aviation, business administration, and legal studies are not eligible for the Leo S. Rowe Supplementary Scholarship.
This focus on STEM and environmental sciences reflects a strategic effort to invest in areas that have a high potential for impact in the students’ home countries.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Leo S. Rowe Supplementary Scholarship, applicants must meet several key requirements:
Nationality and Visa Status: Applicants must be nationals of a Latin American or Caribbean country and hold a valid F/J visa for studying in the United States.
Academic Standing: Applicants must be in the final two years of their undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral program at an accredited U.S. university. This requirement ensures that the scholarship supports students who are close to completing their studies and are likely to return to their home countries soon.
Rowe Fund Loan Application: Students must be eligible for and apply for a Rowe Fund interest-free loan concurrently with the scholarship application. The scholarship is intended to complement this loan, offering additional financial support to those in need.
Demonstrated Financial Need and Academic Excellence: Applicants must show that they have a genuine financial need and are performing well academically. Additionally, they must demonstrate a commitment to using their education to benefit their home country, contributing to its development and progress.
It is essential to understand that receiving a Rowe Fund interest-free loan does not automatically guarantee a scholarship award.
The scholarship is competitive, and only those who meet all the criteria and demonstrate a strong case for financial assistance will be selected.
Application Process
Applying for the Leo S. Rowe Supplementary Scholarship involves several steps:
Complete the Rowe Fund Loan Application: Before applying for the scholarship, students must first complete the application for the Rowe Fund interest-free loan. This application process is an integral part of qualifying for the supplementary scholarship.
Prepare a Personal Statement: As part of the scholarship application, students are required to submit a personal statement. This statement should outline their educational and career objectives, explain how they plan to use their degree to contribute to their home country, and describe any personal or family circumstances that highlight their need for financial support. The statement is a critical component of the application, providing insight into the applicant’s goals and challenges.
Submit Application Materials Online: All application materials, including the personal statement and any required documentation, must be submitted through the Rowe Fund Secretariat’s online platform. The scholarship program accepts applications year-round, with a monthly deadline on the 5th of each month. To be considered for that month, all application materials must be uploaded by the 5th.
Continuous Application Process: The scholarship application process is ongoing, with opportunities available throughout the year. This flexibility allows students to apply when they are ready and ensures that those who need financial support have multiple chances to secure it.
Application Deadline: The application is open year-round in 2024 for the Spring 2025 session. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to ensure their application is considered in a timely manner.
Conclusion
The Leo S. Rowe Supplementary Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for Latin American and Caribbean students studying in the U.S. to receive additional financial support. By easing the financial burden of tuition and living expenses, the scholarship enables students to focus on their studies and complete their degrees. Moreover, it empowers them to return to their home countries with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to their communities and drive positive change.
Students who meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to making a difference in their home regions are strongly encouraged to apply for this valuable scholarship opportunity.