FAQs & Resources
Learn About Our Scholarships!
Top Three Questions We Hear
Does it cost money to apply for a scholarship?
Nope! Applying for scholarships through our system is completely free. If a scholarship asks you to pay a fee or deposit, it’s probably a scam. Real scholarships don’t charge you to apply. To learn how to spot scams, check out the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information website.
How do I know which scholarships I can apply for?
When you apply through our online system, you’ll answer some questions about yourself in the Universal Application. Based on your answers, the system will match you with scholarships you’re eligible for.
Can I trust scholarship info I find on other websites?
The most accurate and up-to-date info is always on the Oklahoma City Community Foundation (OCCF) website. Other scholarship search engines may list our scholarships, but they often contain outdated or incorrect information. Always double-check with our site to avoid missing deadlines or applying incorrectly.
More Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check if my scholarship money was sent to my school?
Log in to your account and go to your scholarship dashboard. Click on the awarded scholarship name. Under the “Award Details” tab:
- If you see a dollar amount next to “Amount Paid”, the money has been sent.
- If it’s next to “Balance”, it means some or all the money hasn’t been sent yet.
How much money will I get if I win a scholarship?
It depends! Scholarships can range from $2,000 to $20,000, based on the fund and its rules. The amount may change from year to year. Your award letter will have all the details.
What’s the timeline for the scholarship program?
- Applications Open: October 1
- Early Deadline for specific programs (see below) **
- Final Deadline for Universal Application: February 15
- Results Announced: May–June
- Money Sent to Schools: Mid-July to Mid-September
**Community Foundation Scholars & Dr. Gary M. Moore Great Plan Scholarship will close on December 3, 2025. The OG&E Positive Energy Scholarship will have a January deadline. Check your student dashboard to confirm the official deadlines.
How will I find out if I got a scholarship?
We’ll email you using the email address you used to sign up. Some students may also get a letter in the mail. After June 1, you can check your student dashboard for updates. If you didn’t get a scholarship, you won’t receive a notification, but your student dashboard will be updated.
How do I get letters of recommendation?
Here’s what to do:
- Ask someone (like a counselor, teacher, or coach) if they’re willing to write a recommendation for you.
- If they say yes, add their name and email to your application.
- The system will email them instructions to upload the letter.
- You’ll get an email when the letter is submitted.
Important: Make sure your recommender submits the letter before the deadline! If you need to change your recommender, please email us at scholarships@occf.org with their full name and email address. Please let the original recommender know that you no longer need them to write a letter.
Teacher & Counselor Resources
Looking for help on our new Scholarship Manager system? Check out the Applicant Tutorial!
