RI Foundation accepting college scholarship applications until April 15

PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Foundation is now accepting applications for $4 million worth of scholarships for college tuition, fees and books.

The deadline for most applications is April 15. There are hundreds of scholarships available, including awards for specific majors such as nursing or journalism and for students looking to attend trade or technical schools. Some scholarships are also tailored to students of certain genders, family histories or other affiliations.

“This can help students and their families bridge gaps that might seem insurmountable,” Foundation President and CEO David Cicillline said in a statement. “The results of their generosity will be felt for years as these young people make their marks in their careers and in their communities.”

The scholarships come amid reports that a handful of New England colleges, including Wellesley College, Brown University and Tufts University are expected next year to have a per-year sticker price higher than $90,000 once housing, a meal plan and other fees are added to tuition.

“The financial support I have received through this scholarship has relieved me of the burden of excessive student loans and has allowed me to fully immerse myself in my studies,” said Jolinada Zhang, a graduate of Cumberland High School who now studies health science at Boston University, in a statement. “The assistance has not only lightened my financial load but has also opened doors to personal and professional growth that I would have otherwise found inaccessible.”

Students who are interested in applying can browse the scholarships and access the applications at rifoundation.org.