The Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship is a premier merit- and need-based award dedicated to funding the education of deserving students. The foundation established the scholarship to invest in individuals who demonstrate academic excellence, strong leadership, and commitment to their community. Since the program’s inception, the foundation has awarded over 750 scholarships to students across the United States.
The scholarship focuses on identifying students who exhibit an ability to overcome barriers and achieve ambitious future goals. The selection committee evaluates applications based on a candidate’s academic record, extracurricular activities, and demonstrated financial need. Successful applicants demonstrate a clear plan for using their college education to make a positive impact in their lives and communities.
This renewable award supports students seeking an Associate or Bachelor’s degree at a physical, accredited college or university. The scholarship funds your education at over 188 institutions, including schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Auburn. You can secure funding for up to four academic years, provided you maintain the necessary renewal requirements.
Scholarship Coverage and Details
The Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship provides significant financial support for college students. The award amount ranges from $500 to $5,000 per year. The foundation determines the specific amount based on the student’s demonstrated financial need.
This scholarship is renewable for up to four academic years (eight semesters). Recipients must remain enrolled full-time and meet annual renewal criteria to continue receiving the funds. The scholarship funds education-related expenses, including tuition and fees, books and supplies, and room and board.
The foundation has impacted hundreds of students, awarding over $8.2 million in scholarship dollars to date. Award winners must use the funds at an accredited U.S. institution. The scholarship is a non-athletic award; students receiving an intercollegiate athletic scholarship are ineligible.
Eligibility Requirements
There are three key eligibility requirements for the Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship: academic criteria, age and grade level, and residency status. The scholarship requires a minimum GPA and is limited by geography.
| Criterion | High School Seniors | College Applicants (Freshman/Sophomore) |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 on a 4.0 scale | 2.75 on a 4.0 scale |
| Grade Level | Must be a full-time senior graduating in Spring/Summer 2026. | Must be enrolled full-time as a college freshman or sophomore. |
| Age Limit | Must be no older than 20 as of August 1, 2026. | Must be no older than 20 as of August 1, 2026. |
| Residency | Must reside in one of the 27 eligible states (e.g., Alabama, Florida, Texas) or the District of Columbia. | Same as above. |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident. | Same as above. |
You must demonstrate financial need to be considered for this award. Applicants must also exhibit leadership skills through extracurricular activities or community service. Employees of Great Southern Wood Preserving, Inc., and their immediate family members are not eligible.
Application Process
The application process is managed through a secure online portal and requires three main components: the application form, supporting academic documents, and financial information. The foundation partners with International Scholarship and Tuition Services (ISTS) to manage the submission process.
To strengthen an application, you must complete the application form, which includes sections for academic information, extracurricular activities, and awards/honors. You must also demonstrate leadership skills in your essay and provide information detailing your financial need. You must submit academic documents, such as your official transcripts or GED certificate, and may need to submit supporting financial documents.
The foundation requires two letters of recommendation. To get strong letters of recommendation, choose recommenders who know you well, provide them with your CV and personal statement, and give them at least four weeks’ notice. The recommendation deadline is typically a few days after the main application deadline.
Also apply for Wells Fargo Scholarship Programs (A Comprehensive Guide).
Deadline
The Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship application opens on December 1, 2025. The application deadline is February 6, 2026.
The deadline for recommendations is generally a separate date. The recommendation deadline is February 12, 2026. You must submit your complete application and all supplemental materials by the final closing date, as the foundation does not accept late submissions.
