Begin Your Journey — Voluntary Donation

Scholarships

Exceptional Program Initiatives

We develop impactful projects
that catalyze change

The Softic Family Foundation offers scholarships to students at all educational levels—from preschool and high school to undergraduate and graduate studies. We support both degree- and non-degree-granting programs at public and private institutions. All are welcome to apply.

Application Process

There are two application cycles:

  • Fall cycle deadline: Second Monday in June
  • Spring cycle deadline: Second Monday in October

The review process may take up to three months.

Interested applicants must complete a pre-application form (link to file) and email it to [email protected]. A random six-digit number will be assigned. All materials must include this number and no personal information to maintain anonymity.

The application includes two documents:

  • Personal Essay (max 750 words): How the applicant supports the Foundation’s mission of peace and religious tolerance.
  • Educational & Financial Info: Tuition costs, institution, test scores, or academic ranking (if available).
Blind Review

Aisa Softic, an author and educator with over 50 years of experience, chairs the scholarship committee. She will receive de-identified applications and appoint three judges from different religious backgrounds to evaluate them.

Scoring System

Applications receiving 5 or more points will be considered for funding.

Use Bullet List Block for Each Section:

  • 1–5 Points: Strength of the Essay
    The essay is the most significant component of the application. Applicants who demonstrate a strong commitment to peace, justice, and equality may score in the fundable range regardless of other criteria.
  • 0–1 Points: Background
    • Applicants of Bosnian ancestry: +1 point
    • Applicants resettled in the U.S. from war-affected regions: +1 point
    • Applicants from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds: +0.5 point
  • 0–1 Points: Academic Merit
    • Top 10% of class: +1 point
    • Top 25% of class: +0.5 point
    • If class rank is not available, points may be awarded for notable academic achievements or awards.
  • 0–1 Points: Institutional Affiliation & Geographic Area
    • +1 point: Applicants attending institutions of higher education attended/affiliated by Samir or Norah Softic. These include Wright State University, University of Cincinnati, Indiana University, Harvard University, University of Massachusetts, University of Kentucky and University of Pikeville.
    • +0.5 point: Applicants from states where Samir or Norah have lived, including Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and Massachusetts.

Note: While all fields of study are eligible, preference will be given to students pursuing degrees in law or medicine