ACWA Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by Association of California Water Agencies
Background
The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) launched its scholarship initiative in 1961 to encourage capable, committed students to contribute to protecting California’s water quality and advancing sound water management policy. ACWA continues that effort by offering a graduate-level award, the ACWA Water Law & Policy Scholarship.
Important deadline
Applications must be submitted electronically by March 1 of each year.
Award
Each year ACWA presents a single $5,000 scholarship to a qualified graduate student.
Who is eligible
- Must be enrolled at the start of the academic year covered by the award at an accredited U.S. college or university (public or private).
- Must be pursuing a graduate degree (Master’s, PhD, or law degree) in water law and policy or in public administration with a clear concentration in water resources.
- Part-time and full-time students are both eligible. Typical enrollment definitions vary by institution but generally correspond to about 5–10 units for part-time and 12–25 units for full-time for the academic year.
Application materials required
- Two current letters of recommendation (minimum), with a maximum of three letters accepted. At least one letter must come from a college professor or a supervising employer.
- Official transcripts from each college or university previously attended. Sealed transcripts are not required; however, printed class schedules are not acceptable.
- An essay (responding to the scholarship prompt) of no more than 1,000 words.
How recipients are selected
Selections are based on:
- Academic performance;
- Demonstrated commitment to careers in water-resources management; and
- The strength and quality of the applicant’s essay.
Disbursement and conditions
Scholarship funds will be paid directly to the recipient’s Financial Aid Office as a single $5,000 payment and must be applied to the student’s account for tuition and fees. The award will not be issued directly to the student and may not be used for other purposes. If a recipient fails to comply with the scholarship’s requirements, ACWA reserves the right to rescind the award.