The TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund is dedicated to recognizing and supporting students who demonstrate outstanding commitment to community service. This scholarship rewards those who have made significant contributions to their communities through volunteer work, leadership, and civic engagement. By providing financial assistance, we aim to empower these students to continue their education and expand their impact. Our goal is to nurture the next generation of leaders who are committed to making a positive difference in society.
Information for Applicants
Applications for the TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund for the 2025–2026 academic year are now closed.
Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now open. Please submit all materials by 11.59PM on May 2, 2025.
TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund grants scholarships to students with Turkish heritage who have demonstrated exceptional community service and have been accepted into accredited academic institutions in the United States with some secured funding for the pursuit of two-year postgraduate or four-year undergraduate degree programs. The scope of the scholarship encompasses all disciplines and aims to encourage ongoing community involvement and support students who are committed to making a positive impact. Each year, scholarship(s) with a maximum value of $15,000 per award will be disbursed to help cover tuition fees and/or living expenses. The scholarship is for one year only. The scholarship stipulates that the recipient’s academic institution must provide supplementary support or offer on-campus employment opportunities to the student. Scholars who would like to be considered extending the scholarship period should reapply.
Eligibility:
- Must be of Turkish origin.
- Must have already received partial funding from their accepted school (e.g., scholarships, grants).
- Must have a demonstrated history of significant community service.
Selection Criteria:
- Proof of quality and impact of community service.
- A minimum GPA of 3.5
- Financial need (to cover gaps not met by the existing funding).
- At least 3 reference letters, one related to the community service.
Scholarship Amount: Each scholarship disbursement will be up to $15,000 annually, which can be applied towards tuition fees and/or living expenses. The scholarship amount is for 1 year only. Students need to apply again to be considered for ongoing funding.
Selection Committee: Each year, a Selection Committee composed of five members will be constituted to assess eligible candidates. The Selection Committee reviews all recommended candidates admitted to the designated universities and narrows down the pool to a maximum of five candidates for the final round of interviews. Committee members then conduct interviews with each shortlisted candidate via videoconferencing. Following the interviews, the Committee reaches a final decision, which is submitted to the Board of Directors. The chosen recipient and her university are subsequently informed of the decision.
Application Process: The application process for the scholarship fund requires candidates to complete an online form with sections for personal information, academic records, details of existing funding, and a comprehensive community service statement.
Supporting Documents:
- Proof of Turkish origin.
- Confirmation of funding from the accepted school.
- Community service verification (e.g., letters from organizations, detailed service log).
- At least 3 reference letters.
The TPF Banu Onaral Scholarship:
TPF is honored to dedicate a scholarship from the TPF Changemakers Scholarship Fund to Banu Onaral, a visionary leader in biomedical engineering whose groundbreaking contributions have shaped the field and inspired generations of scientists and engineers. The Banu Onaral Scholarship will empower and support students of Turkish origin as they pursue a degree in biomedical engineering in the United States, carrying forward a legacy of innovation and impact.
About Banu Onaral:
Dr. Banu Onaral is a pioneering biomedical engineer specializing in medical imaging and neuroengineering. As the H. H. Sun Professor and Founding Director of Drexel University’s School of Biomedical Engineering, she advanced interdisciplinary research bridging engineering and healthcare. Her work in biosensors, medical diagnostics, and translational research has had a lasting impact. A dedicated mentor and advocate, she fosters global collaborations and supports emerging leaders in the field.
Application Process
All applicants must apply online with the admission decision letter received from the university, and all applications must be submitted by March 16th, 2025 by 11.59PM EST. Full disclosure on all scholarships received (US and other schools) as well as all graduate schools applied to are required. Any negligence in providing full information will be a reason for disqualification. Late or incomplete applications cannot be considered. Applicants should note that financial need is an important determinant in the decision of the committee.
A Selection Committee, consisting of five members, evaluates all applications. The Committee members conduct interviews with finalists in person or via teleconferencing.
Application Requirements: All applicants must provide the following as part of their award application:
- Fully filled out the application form
- Passport or National ID as proof of nationality
- A personal statement with attestation to the applicant’s financial need
- Resume
- Official academic transcript(s) from the undergraduate/graduate college
- Admission Decision Letter from one of the above-designated university(ies) showing acceptance to the school*
- TOEFL/IELTS and GRE scores
- At least three references
*if you haven’t received the school’s admission letter by the time of the application deadline, please upload the proof of your application and note that you are still waiting to hear back from the schools.
If you have any questions, please contact TPF Institutional Partnerships Lead here.