Kids have big dreams for the future, but they change their minds often. Embark is the flexible savings plan that supports whatever path they pick.
Oct 9, 2026
A scholarship for Oregon.
At some point, every high schooler gets asked the same thing: “What’s next after graduation?”
It’s a question that can spark excitement, but also uncertainty — especially when finances present a barrier to their dreams. For many Oregon students, the future feels out of reach simply because the cost of education looms so large.
Thankfully, opportunities like Embark’s Diversity in Leadership Scholarship can help make higher education a little more accessible for Oregon families. By offering financial support to historically underrepresented and diverse students, the scholarship opens doors and helps high school graduates pursue the path that’s right for them.
What is the Diversity in Leadership Scholarship?
The Diversity in Leadership Scholarship is an offering from Embark that expands educational access for Oregon students, specifically those from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. It provides financial support for a wide range of educational paths, including college, community college, trade or technical programs, apprenticeships, and career training.
Embark awards the scholarship to two recipients each year, with a total value of up to $25,000 per person. Students receive $10,000 in tuition funds for their first year at an eligible Oregon institution and $5,000 per year for the next three years, or until they complete their degree — whichever comes first.
The scholarship is administered through the Oregon Community Foundation’s (OCF) scholarship program. With the support of OCF, Embark awards $50,000 in scholarships each year to a class of eight students.
Scholarship applications open in November and are due by March 2, 2026.
Who can apply?
This program supports Oregon students from communities that haven’t always had equal access to education. This might include (but isn’t limited to) young people who identify as Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x, Asian American, Pacific Islander, multiracial, LGBTQIA+, first-generation college students, students from low-income households, foster youth, or students with disabilities.
To apply, candidates must meet a few additional requirements:
- Live in Oregon.
- Be a high school graduate or graduating senior of an Oregon high school or high school equivalent.
- Be enrolled as a first-year student at a Title IV-eligible institution in Oregon. This includes college, community college, trade school, apprenticeships, or eligible career training.
- Be able to provide basic documentation, such as transcripts and proof of residency.
How does the application process work?
The application is meant to be simple and intuitive for families. There’s no application fee and most students can complete the process in a single sitting.
Before diving in, we recommend grabbing a few key items, including high school transcripts, personal statements, and proof of residency. From there, the steps are straightforward:
- Visit the scholarship page.
Review key details so you understand what’s required before applying. - Download the scholarship application.
Confirm your eligibility and provide basic information, including school details, a list of activities, and academic achievements. - Write three brief personal responses.
The prompts ask you to reflect on your identity, past experiences, and future goals. - Compile your application packet.
This includes a completed application form, transcripts, and personal statements. - Submit the packet before the deadline.
Once everything is uploaded and complete, send your application to the mailing address included on the application form by March 2, 2026.
For more information on how to apply, check out our FAQs.
Investing in Oregon’s future.
At Embark, we wholeheartedly believe that education can help foster a brighter future. No student should have to put their dreams on hold because of financial barriers.
According to the 2025 "How America Pays for College" study by Sallie Mae, three in four recipients say that scholarships made college possible for them. The Diversity in Leadership Scholarship aims to do the same for Oregon families, reducing costs and creating more opportunities for students of all backgrounds to reach their full potential.
By championing young people who are ready to lead, contribute, and shape Oregon’s future, The Diversity in Leadership Scholarship promotes a more inclusive and equitable future for our state.
“The Embark scholarship is a dream come true. It will enable me to pursue my passion for education and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who may be struggling with reading. I am determined to show others that with perseverance and support, anything is possible.”
— Leanna Rios, 2024 scholarship recipient
A few more details.
- Can I use the Diversity in Leadership Scholarship outside of Oregon?
No. The Diversity in Leadership Scholarship is specifically designed to support Oregon students pursuing education at a Title IV–eligible institution in Oregon. - Can I apply for other scholarships in addition to this one?
Yes! Applying for multiple scholarships is encouraged. Diversifying your scholarship applications increases your chances of receiving financial support. - Can I apply if I plan to attend school part-time?
No. This scholarship is designated for full-time enrollment status only.