Rhode Island PBS Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Rhode Island Foundation
Introduction
Created by Rhode Island PBS in 2017, the Ocean State Media Scholarship supports aspiring journalists and media professionals who live within Ocean State Media’s viewing market. Annual awards of up to $15,000 are available, and recipients may renew the award for up to three additional years.
Award overview and timeline
- The scholarship application becomes available each January. Complete applications and all supporting materials must be submitted by the annual deadline to be considered.
- Rhode Island PBS administers the scholarship in partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation. An advisory committee reviews applications and chooses awardees based on the submitted materials.
Who may apply
- Residents of Rhode Island or Bristol County, Massachusetts (the Ocean State Media market area).
- A graduating high school senior planning to enroll in an accredited four-year college or a student already enrolled in an accredited four-year institution.
- Applicants must demonstrate financial need and explain how the scholarship will affect their educational plans.
- Candidates should show promise and merit for a career in journalism and/or media.
Required application materials
Applicants must complete the Universal Application through the Rhode Island Foundation’s secure online scholarship portal and include any required attachments, which may consist of:
- Personal essays;
- Official transcripts;
- A résumé worksheet;
- At least one letter of recommendation from a teacher or professional who can speak to the applicant’s suitability for a media/journalism career;
- A work sample (examples: writing, video, audio, photography, or another creative piece);
- Any additional supporting documents requested.
Restrictions and renewals
- Current Ocean State Media employees, their children, and other immediate family members are not eligible to apply.
- Awards can be up to $15,000. Previous recipients are permitted to reapply and may renew the scholarship annually for up to three additional years.
How to submit
All applications must be filed through the Rhode Island Foundation’s secure online scholarship platform by the posted deadline.