The Presidential Scholarship supports the Institute for Clinical Social Work’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in the field of clinical counseling. The fund was established to support students from under-represented racial minority groups.  Priority will be given to students who are Black American or Hispanic; two groups that are disproportionately underrepresented in the mental health profession. 

Up to $5,000 per year

Only for incoming, new Master’s or PhD students.

Two year scholarship

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Admissions Status: Be fully admitted into the M.A. or Ph.D. program.

  • Academic/Financial Standing: Returning students must be in good academic and financial standing.

  • Diversity Requirement: Be a member of an under-represented racial group.

  • Personal Statement: Submit a 900–1200-word personal statement (Arial, 12-point font) identifying examples of professional and community service experiences working with under-represented communities, along with any other relevant information to assist the committee.

  • Internship Placement: Program internship placement must be located in an ethnic or racially under-represented community.

  • Scholarship Duration: Two-year scholarship; renewable for a second year provided the student maintains good academic progress toward their degree and remains in good financial standing.

Guidelines:

  • Submit a separate, unique, and compelling argument for each scholarship request.

  • Review the requirements for each scholarship to ensure all required documents are submitted.

  • Note: AI-generated essays will be disqualified from receiving an award.

    Submit all applications and supporting documents electronically to: scholarshipcommittee@icsw.edu