This information is to prepare applicants with the information needed to complete their University South Foundation Scholarship Application.

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TIPS FOR SUCCESS

1. Follow instructions to ensure all requirements are met. 

2. Demonstrate integrity by providing truthful responses.

3. Highlight your strengths, passions, and successes. 

4. Prior to responding, thoroughly review the entire application and gather the required documents. 

5. Familiarize yourself with the scholarship criteria and select all relevant scholarships for consideration.

6. Review the Evaluation Rubric to understand the expectations of the reviewers. 

7. Refine and polish your essay questions, if applicable, through practice and multiple revisions.

8. Make sure to submit your application by the deadline. Late submissions will not be considered.

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REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
Provide two documents as proof of residency. One from item 1 and one from item 2.

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1. Driver’s license or State-issued identification card

2. Utility bill, bank statement, property tax bill, pay stub, or rental agreement in your name

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Unofficial Transcripts (all applicants)

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Proof of Enrollment (all applicants):

• You are required to provide proof of enrollment with the application or via email to foundation@usfaz.org no later than June 10, 2026

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Education Unidos Applicant:

• Proof of Employment in Cochise County

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Education Unidos - IME Becas Applicant (provide one of the following):

• Mexican Birth Certificate

• Parent's Mexican Birth Certificate

• Mexican Passport

• Consular Identification Card

• Mexican Elector's Identification Card (IFE or INE)

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Military Applicant (active duty, veteran, military spouse) (provide one of the following):

• DD214

• Current Military Orders

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Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative Applicant:

• SSVEC Account Number

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ESSAY QUESTIONS

These essay questions allow you to highlight your achievements, goals, and the personal circumstances that shape your educational journey. Strong responses should be clear, well-organized, and written in your own authentic voice. Reviewers want to understand you—your passion, motivation, challenges, and aspirations—not a perfect or generic answer.

 

Questions 1-4 are required for all applicants.

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Question 5 is required for Education Unidos/IME-Becas applicants.

 

Question 6 is required for Information Technology applicants.

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Major - Question 1 (Maximum 500 words)
Explain your choice of major. What inspired your interest in this field? What personal qualities, experiences, or skills will help you succeed? How does this major connect to your short- and long-term career goals?

Community - Question 2 (Maximum 500 words)
Explain how you have contributed to your community through civic engagement, volunteer service, school or community organizations, military service, or other activities. Describe your roles, responsibilities, and how your involvement has made a positive difference for others. 
 
Financial Impact - Question 3 (Maximum 300 words)
Describe how receiving this scholarship would affect your ability to pursue your education (and military career, if applicable).
You may address:
•    How the scholarship would reduce financial barriers or stress
•    Specific ways it would help you continue, complete, or enhance your program
•    How it would support your academic progress, work-life balance, or training requirements
Focus on the real, practical difference this support would make for you. 

Challenges - Question 4 (Maximum 300 words)
Describe any non-financial challenges that may affect your ability to pursue or complete your education. These may include physical or mental health conditions, medical needs, family or caregiving responsibilities, work commitments, distance or location barriers, limited access to classes, connectivity issues, or other circumstances.

Bi-National - Question 5 (Maximum 500 words)
Explain how your future professional work will help build stronger U.S.–Mexico collaboration and positively impact individuals, families, or communities in both countries.  

Information Technology - Question 6 (Maximum 500 words)

Describe how earning your degree or certificate will improve cybersecurity for yourself, your employer, and the nation.