Foundation 649
is a 501c3 that discovers and empowers young, talented Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who are actively elevating and serving their communities across the country.
2025 Scholarship Prompt
Describe how your community uniquely contributes to the broader AAPI experience.
The Foundation 649 Scholarship is a grant of $4,000 over the course of 4 years that can be applied to college tuition and expenses. To maintain eligibility each year, there will be a brief check-in and renewal process at the end of each school year.
Details
- Five recipients will be selected
- Each recipient will receive an award of $4,000 USD spread over 4 years
- The award must be renewed each year to receive successive funds (details to come)
- Application deadline is March 1, 2025
- 10 entrants will be selected as finalists for video call interviews by March 31, 2025
- Recipients are announced by April 15, 2025
Requirements
- Be a degree-seeking, full-time student enrolling in a U.S. accredited university in Fall 2025 as a Freshman or transferring from a community college
- Identify as Asian American / Pacific Islander
- Have a track record of involvement and interest in AAPI communities, issues, or causes
- Have demonstrated financial need for the scholarship
- Be a US citizen, resident, or foreign national. Undocumented students are also welcome to apply.
Application
The application consists of a questionnaire and a short essay (1000 word maximum). We want to hear your stories - we encourage creativity and originality (this should not be a rehash of your resume)! Alternate media will also be accepted in place of the essay if you choose (e.g. film, photography, etc.). If you are selected as a recipient, with your permission, we plan to share your submission with our audiences.
In addition, applicants should provide the FAFSA SAR (student aid report) that show their EFC (expected family contribution). If you are unable to provide this document, please provide substitute documentation and elaborate in the financial aid section.
In addition, applicants should provide the FAFSA SAR (student aid report) that show their EFC (expected family contribution). If you are unable to provide this document, please provide substitute documentation and elaborate in the financial aid section.
FAQ
Is there a cutoff Expected Family Contribution or household income that determines eligibility?
We recognize that applicants come from a variety of financial situations, and that neither the EFC or household income is a perfectly representative number. While they will factor heavily into our ultimate decision, we would also like to hear about additional financial context on you and will consider it as part of your application in a broader, holistic context.
Am I eligible if I am of ________ descent or if my parents are from ________?
We recognize that there may be cases in which a candidate identifies as AAPI but don't fall neatly into a familial bucket, e.g. adoptees. Generally, if you are of AAPI descent and resonate with Foundation 649's mission, we encourage you to apply. However, don't hesitate to email us if you have specific eligibility questions.
Where do I find my FAFSA SAR?
After you submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, you’ll get a Student Aid Report (SAR) that summarizes the information you provided on your FAFSA form. For more detailed instructions, please visit https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/review-and-correct/sar-student-aid-report.
What if I haven't received my FAFSA SAR yet?
If for any reason you don't have a FAFSA, please upload income information, such as W2, 1099s, tax returns and elaborate in the question below. We may reach out for additional documentation.
Questions? Please contact us at team@foundation649.com.
