Japanese American Service Committee Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by Japanese American Service Committee

2026 Scholarship Application Instructions
Application deadline: April 1, 2026

Purpose
The JASC scholarships support our commitment to community-centered care, service, and the preservation of Japanese American history and legacy. We value many forms of community engagement — including cultural exploration, caregiving, advocacy, creative endeavors, volunteer work, and educational pursuits — and seek applicants who reflect those commitments.

This application asks for thoughtful, personal reflection on your experiences, values, and goals rather than fitting into a narrow definition of “involvement.” Applicants are not required to be of Japanese ancestry and prior involvement with JASC is not necessary.

We are grateful to the families and individuals whose donations make these awards possible and honor the people after whom current and past scholarships are named: Sam Fukaye Scholarship; Fred Toguri Scholarship; William T. Yamamoto Scholarship; Frank T. Kambara Scholarship; Jean E. Taketoshi Scholarship; John (Jun) Iwaoka Scholarship; Dr. Newton K. Wesley Scholarship; Taketo (Tak) Tomiyama Scholarship.

Eligibility
To be considered for a JASC scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

1. Be enrolled (full- or part-time) at an accredited institution of higher learning during the 2026–27 academic year.
2. There is no requirement to be of Japanese ancestry, nor to be a U.S. citizen.
3. Submit every document requested on the application form; incomplete applications will not be considered.
4. Scholarship funds will be issued to the student after the recipient provides JASC with proof of enrollment at an accredited institution.
5. The applicant or their family must hold a current JASC membership. Student memberships cost $45 (https://www.jasc-chicago.org/become-a-member/).
6. Recipients may receive a maximum of two JASC scholarships in their lifetime (one for undergraduate study and one for graduate study). Applicants who have previously received a JASC scholarship and are seeking a second award must demonstrate ongoing service to others and exceptional community involvement.

Evaluation criteria
Applications will be assessed using the following factors:

1. Community involvement and service — the scope and impact of the applicant’s service, and how community work has shaped the applicant.
2. Academic commitment — demonstrated dedication to education, evidenced by grades, coursework, and the rigor of the student’s academic program.
3. Alignment with Japanese American values — actions that build community, confront injustice, and transmit cultural and historical lessons to improve society.

Questions about the application process can be directed to JASC through the contact information on the website.