For many students, one of the biggest barriers to higher education is cost. Tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses can quickly add up, leaving families worried about how to afford a college degree. Fortunately, some programs exist to make higher education more accessible. One such program is the Reisher Scholarship.
The Reisher Scholarship is a financial aid opportunity for students in Colorado who want to pursue higher education but face financial challenges. If you’re asking, “What is the Reisher Scholarship and am I eligible?” — this guide will give you a complete breakdown.
What Is the Reisher Scholarship?
The Reisher Scholarship Program was created by the Reisher family in partnership with the Denver Foundation. Their mission is to ensure that talented students from modest financial backgrounds can attend and graduate from college without being overwhelmed by debt.
Unlike many scholarships that only cover a portion of tuition, the Reisher Scholarship is designed to fill the financial gap after other grants, scholarships, and aid have been applied. This makes it a last-dollar scholarship; ensuring students can focus on their education instead of constant financial stress.
Key Goals of the Scholarship
- Accessibility: Help students who otherwise might not afford college.
- Persistence: Support recipients throughout their studies, not just in the first year.
- Completion: Encourage students to graduate on time with less debt.
- Community: Build a network of scholars who can support each other academically and personally.
Who Is Eligible for the Reisher Scholarship?
The Reisher Scholarship is targeted toward Colorado students with financial need and strong academic potential. To qualify, applicants typically must:
1. Residency Requirements
- Be a Colorado resident.
- Be enrolled in or transferring to a partner institution in Colorado.
2. Academic Requirements
- Enter as a full-time student at the sophomore or junior level.
- Maintain a minimum GPA of around 2.0 – 3.0 (depending on the institution).
- Show evidence of academic persistence and progress.
3. Financial Need
- Demonstrate financial need after all other scholarships, grants, and aid have been considered.
- FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) results are usually required.
4. Citizenship & Enrollment
- Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible non-citizen.
- Must be enrolled full-time at a participating Colorado university.
Partner Institutions
The Reisher Scholarship is not available at every school. Instead, it works through partner colleges and universities in Colorado, such as:
- University of Colorado Denver
- Colorado State University
- University of Northern Colorado
- Metropolitan State University of Denver
- Colorado Mesa University
- Regis University
(Always check the updated list each year for changes.)
Benefits of the Reisher Scholarship
The scholarship provides significant financial assistance, often covering thousands of dollars per year. Benefits typically include:
- Gap funding to cover tuition, fees, and sometimes living expenses.
- Renewable each year if eligibility is maintained.
- Support for up to four years of undergraduate study.
- Reduced reliance on student loans.
- Membership in the Reisher Scholars community, with networking and support opportunities.
How Much Is the Award?
The exact award varies based on your financial need and institution, but many students receive $4,000 to $11,000 per year. This makes it one of the most impactful scholarships available in Colorado.
How to Apply for the Reisher Scholarship
The application process is handled through partner institutions, not directly through the Denver Foundation. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
Step 1: Apply to a Partner University
- Make sure the university you’re applying to is a Reisher partner.
- Complete your admission and financial aid applications (including FAFSA).
Step 2: Get Invited to Apply
- Universities usually nominate eligible students.
- Invitations are often sent to students who demonstrate both financial need and academic potential.
Step 3: Complete the Reisher Application
- Fill out the scholarship form provided by your institution.
- Provide transcripts, FAFSA results, and personal information.
- Write a personal statement about your goals, challenges, and motivation.
Step 4: Wait for Selection
- The university and Reisher team review applications.
- Selected students are notified directly.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Maintain Strong Grades — academic performance matters.
- Show Financial Transparency — provide complete and accurate FAFSA details.
- Write a Powerful Personal Statement — highlight challenges you’ve overcome.
- Demonstrate Commitment — show you are serious about graduating on time.
- Get Involved — community service and extracurriculars strengthen applications.
Responsibilities of Reisher Scholars
Being a Reisher Scholar comes with expectations, such as:
- Maintaining full-time enrollment.
- Meeting GPA requirements each semester.
- Participating in scholar community events.
- Completing FAFSA each year.
- Staying in good academic and financial standing.
Why the Reisher Scholarship Matters
The Reisher Scholarship is more than money; it’s a commitment to education equity in Colorado. By removing financial barriers, it ensures students can focus on academics, graduate with less debt, and contribute positively to their communities.
This program shows how philanthropy and higher education partnerships can transform lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who funds the Reisher Scholarship?
It was established by the Reisher family in partnership with the Denver Foundation.
2. Can graduate students apply?
No, it’s primarily for undergraduate students.
3. How do I know if I’m invited to apply?
Your university will notify you if you’re eligible.
4. Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes, if you maintain eligibility requirements.
5. How competitive is it?
Quite competitive; but many students are selected each year across Colorado institutions.
