PADRE Foundation College Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by PADRE Foundation

Introduction
The PADRE (Pediatrics–Adolescent Diabetes Research and Education) Foundation offers a scholarship program for students living with Type 1 diabetes who are planning to pursue postsecondary education. These awards recognize young people who are engaged in the diabetes community (including PADRE activities), demonstrate strong academic performance, participate in community or extracurricular activities, and have shown resilience in managing life with Type 1 diabetes. Awards are merit-based; financial need is not a criterion for the main scholarship program.

Award details
- Amount: Scholarships range from $500 to $2,000.
- Eligible entry term: For students who will be entering their first year of college or other postsecondary education in Fall 2026.

Eligibility
- Current high school seniors (incoming first-year college students) living with Type 1 diabetes.
- Planning to attend an accredited four-year university, community college, technical, or trade school.
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Application requirements and deadline
To be considered, submit a completed application plus:
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Official or school transcript
- A current photo

All application materials must be received in the PADRE office by March 27, 2026. Incomplete or ineligible submissions will not be reviewed. Applicants will receive an email confirmation when their application is received.

How to submit
Email (preferred): Send the complete packet to info@padrefoundation.org with the subject line: Scholarship Program.
Mail (alternative): PADRE Foundation, Attn: Scholarship Program, 1201 West La Veta Ave., Orange, CA 92868.

Selection process
- Applications are reviewed anonymously (blind review) by a selection committee.
- Each submission is evaluated and scored using a standardized grading grid.
- All applications will be screened with an AI detection tool.

Notifications and award distribution
- Scholarship recipients for 2026 will be notified by telephone and email by Friday, April 17, 2026.
- Applicants who are not selected will not receive additional notification.
- Scholarship checks will be issued to winners by July 2026, mailed to the address provided on the application.

Scholarships for diabetes youth camps and programs
Separate camp scholarships are available to help children attend overnight youth camps that focus on diabetes. These camp awards are need-based; priority is given to first-time campers and to applicants who have already been denied financial aid by the camp or program. Applicants must first apply directly to the camp or program. If a camper is denied camp financial aid, contact PADRE to request consideration and to receive the camp scholarship application.

Questions or to request an application
Contact PADRE Foundation via email at info@padrefoundation.org.