Apply for a Rise to Doctor GED Scholarship

Rise To Doctor GED Scholarship

Founded by Dr. Jennifer M. Sutton

Award Frequency Notice: The Rise To Doctor GED Scholarship is awarded three times per year: Summer, Fall, and Spring. 

Recipients may only be awarded once per academic year.

OFFICIAL SCHOLARSHIP DESCRIPTION

The Rise To Doctor GED Scholarship was created to support students who began their

educational journey through a GED and are now pursuing higher education. This scholarship

exists to affirm that nontraditional beginnings do not limit future success. Inspired by Dr.

Jennifer M. Sutton’s journey from earning her GED to completing her Ph.D. and continuing

into law school, this award honors resilience, perseverance, and academic determination.

Award Amount: $ 2,000.

Eligibility: 

• Must be a resident of the state of Virginia

• Must have earned or be completing a GED 

• Must be accepted into or currently enrolled in a college, university, or trade school 

• Must demonstrate perseverance, motivation, and financial need 

Use of Funds: Tuition, books, supplies, or educational expenses.

Awarded once each term—Summer, Fall, and Spring. One award per recipient per academic year. 

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION (ONE PAGE):

Applicant Information: 

Full Name: 

Email: 

Phone: 

City & State: 

GED Completion Date: 

School Attending: 

Personal Statement (1 Page Maximum): 

1. Tell us your story. What led you to earn

your GED? 

2. Why do you want to continue your education now? 

3. What obstacle have you overcome that you are most proud of? 

4. How will this scholarship help you move forward?

Required Attachments: 

• Proof of GED or GED Enrollment 

• Proof of College, University, or

Trade School Acceptance/Enrollment 

Applicant Signature: ____________________ 

Date:  ____________________ 

 Copy and Paste the completed application into  a Word Doc or an email and send it RiseToDoctor@gmail.com 

Eligibility Notice: Applicants may only receive this scholarship once per academic year.

Any questions, please contact Dr. Jennifer Sutton at risetodoctor@gmail.com

*****Currently accepting applications for Summer 2026. Deadline of May 4, 2026.