The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association® Auxiliary (CVMA®A) Scholarship Program offers a unique opportunity for CVMA members and their families to pursue higher education. This comprehensive guide will explore every aspect of the scholarship, from eligibility requirements to application processes, helping potential applicants navigate this valuable resource.
What is the CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship?
The CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship is a charitable initiative administered by the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association® Auxiliary (CVMA®A). This program aims to support the educational aspirations of CVMA members, their spouses, children, step-children, grandchildren, and step-grandchildren.
Key Features:
- Provides financial assistance for higher education
- Funded by Auxiliary Dues and donations
- Awarded on a one-time basis
- Applicable to both college degrees and vocational education
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Membership or Relation: Applicants must be either:
- A CVMA member (Full, Support, or Auxiliary)
- A non-member spouse, widow, child, step-child, grandchild, or step-grandchild of a CVMA member
- Educational Background:
- High school graduate or GED recipient
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 (high school or college, if applicable)
- Enrollment Status:
- Registered or pre-registered at an accredited institution of higher education
- Application Requirements:
- Submit all required documents before the deadline
- Provide an original essay as per guidelines
Scholarship Categories
The CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship is divided into two main categories:
1. College Degree Seekers
Applicants pursuing an associate degree or higher are further categorized based on their educational level:
a) High School Seniors graduating in the application year b) 0-30 college semester hours completed c) 31-90 college semester hours completed d) 91+ college semester hours completed
Maximum Award: Up to $5,000
2. Vocational Education Pursuers
This category is for applicants attending vocational or trade schools for certification or licensure:
- Program must require a minimum of 80 hours or 13 weeks of instruction
- Only accredited educational programs are considered
Award Amount: May vary
Application Process
The application process for the CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship is entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a complete submission:
- Online Application: Fill out the comprehensive online application form.
- Document Uploads: Prepare and upload the following documents:
- Proof of enrollment/acceptance to an institution of higher education
- Most recent transcripts (unofficial transcripts accepted)
- Original essay (following specific guidelines)
- Personal resume
- Letters of Recommendation: Obtain and submit two letters:
- For non-member applicants: A letter from their sponsoring CVMA member
- For CVMA or CVMAA member applicants: A letter from a current CEB member
- A letter from a professional source
- Essay Submission: Write and submit an original essay following the provided prompt and guidelines.
- Verification: Ensure all information is accurate and relationships are verifiable.
- Deadline Adherence: Submit all materials before the specified deadline (typically March 31st of the application year).
Essay Guidelines
The essay is a crucial component of the CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship application. Here are the specific guidelines:
- Topic: “Define what should and should not be taught about American Patriotism in public schools.”
- Word Count: Between 1,000 and 2,000 words
- Format: Include a cover page
- Evaluation Criteria:
- Originality of thought
- Clarity of expression
- Proper citation
- Analysis depth
- Personal experiences (if relevant)
- Style, grammar, spelling, and punctuation
- Effective use of quotations
Timeline and Important Dates
The CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship follows a specific timeline each year. While exact dates may vary, here’s a general overview based on the 2023 schedule:
- February 1: Release of Scholarship Application Information Packet & Submission Requirements
- March 31: Deadline for submission of applications and supporting materials
- April 1-30: Committee review of applicant submissions
- May 15: Finalists contacted and listed on the CVMA Forum
- June 10: Scholarship Awardee Recognition at the CVMA National Convention
Funding and Award Distribution
Understanding the funding and distribution of the CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship is crucial for applicants:
- Funding Sources:
- Auxiliary Dues
- Donations to the CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship Fund
- Award Determination:
- The number of scholarships and total amount awarded each year depends on the collected dues and donations.
- Award Distribution:
- Recipients receive a certificate of recognition.
- Award checks are sent directly to the recipient’s school.
- Funds are held in the student’s school account.
- Can be used for any educational expense.
Note: If a recipient is unable to attend school for the awarded academic year, the award must be returned or repaid to the Auxiliary Scholarship Fund.
Non-Discrimination Policy
The CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship Committee is committed to equal opportunity. They do not discriminate based on:
- Race
- Color
- Religion (creed)
- Gender
- Gender expression
- Age
- National origin (ancestry)
- Disability
- Sexual orientation
- Military status
This policy applies to all activities and operations related to the scholarship program.
Special Considerations
- Alpha/Omega Members: Dependents of Alpha/Omega members may apply but must contact ANSEC@combatvet.us for special instructions.
- Continuous Good Standing: Applicants or their sponsoring members must maintain good standing from the time of application submission through the disbursement of funds.
- Self-Sponsorship: All CVMA members applying for the scholarship must sponsor themselves, regardless of membership type.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Begin gathering required documents and writing your essay well before the deadline.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Ensure you meet all requirements and follow essay guidelines precisely.
- Proofread: Review all materials for errors before submission.
- Seek Feedback: Have someone review your essay and application for clarity and completeness.
- Highlight Achievements: Use your personal resume to showcase relevant accomplishments and experiences.
- Choose Recommenders Wisely: Select individuals who can speak to your character and potential.
- Be Authentic: In your essay, express genuine thoughts and experiences related to the prompt.
- Submit Early: Avoid last-minute technical difficulties by submitting well before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I apply for the scholarship multiple times? No, scholarships are awarded on a one-time basis only.
- What if I’m not sure about my educational plans? You must be registered or pre-registered at an accredited institution to apply.
- Is the scholarship only for traditional college students? No, it’s also available for vocational education pursuits.
- How are winners selected? The selection process considers academic achievement, the quality of the essay, and other application materials.
- What if I need to change schools after receiving the award? Contact the CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship Committee for guidance on transferring the award.
Conclusion
The CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for CVMA members and their families to pursue higher education. By offering financial support for both college degrees and vocational training, this program demonstrates the CVMA’s commitment to fostering education within its community.
Potential applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria, gather all necessary documents, and put considerable effort into their essay. Remember, this scholarship is not just about financial assistance; it’s about recognizing and supporting the educational aspirations of those connected to the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association.
For those eligible, the CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship could be a crucial stepping stone towards achieving educational and career goals. Take the time to prepare a strong application, and you might join the ranks of proud CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship recipients.
For any questions or clarifications about the scholarship program, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Scholarship Chairpersons or the Auxiliary National Secretary. Your journey towards higher education could start with this valuable opportunity provided by the CVMA Auxiliary.