Richard and Esther Barber Scholarship 2026: Funding for WSU Students with Financial Need (Apply by Jan 31)

Washington State University (WSU) in Pullman has announced the Richard and Esther Barber Endowed Scholarship for the 2026 academic year. This scholarship is a beacon of hope for students who have faced significant financial hardships or adversity, including homelessness.

The award is specifically designed for incoming freshmen or transfer students who show great promise but lack financial resources (specifically those with no family contribution). If you are a determined student who has overcome challenges to reach higher education, this endowment offers the financial support you need. The deadline to submit the general application is 31 January 2026.

Scholarship Overview & Key Details

Who Is Eligible?

This scholarship looks for character and resilience. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:

• Admission Status: You must be an incoming WSU freshman or a transfer student.
• Financial Need: You must have no family contribution as calculated on your FAFSA. This usually corresponds to a Student Aid Index (SAI) of 0 or lower.
• Citizenship: You must be a U.S. National.
• Character: Applicants must demonstrate perseverance, compassion, and a "willingness to help others even as they are being helped."

Preferences (Who Has the Edge?)

While open to all eligible US nationals, the selection committee gives specific preference to:

• Washington Residents: Particularly those graduating from high schools in areas with significant low-income or subsidized housing.
• Overcoming Adversity: Students from families who have experienced homelessness or received support from homeless assistance programs are strongly encouraged to apply.

Scholarship Value

The Richard and Esther Barber Endowed Scholarship provides partial funding. Award Amount: The exact amount varies annually based on the endowment's earnings and the university's discretion. Impact: The funds are intended to bridge the gap for students who have zero expected family contribution, helping cover tuition and essential costs.

How to Apply

WSU utilizes a single "General Scholarship Application" for hundreds of awards. You do not need a separate form for this specific scholarship, but you must complete the general process correctly.

1. General Application: Log in to the WSU financial aid portal and complete the WSU General Scholarship Application.
2. FAFSA: You must file your FAFSA to demonstrate your "no family contribution" status.
3. Deadline: Submit your application by January 31, 2026.
4. Automatic Match: By entering your financial details and background information (including housing stability), the system will automatically consider you for this award.

Official Application Link: Click Here to Visit WSU Scholarship Page