Point Foundation opens 2010 application season

The Point Foundation, the nation's largest scholarship fund for LGBT students, has officially opened its 2010 application season as of Dec. 11.

"Last year, we received a record-breaking number of applications for our prestigious and highly completive scholarships -- over 2,400 applications," said executive director & CEO Jorge Valencia. "And given the current economic environment, which is making it increasing more difficult to secure funding for a higher education, we expect to get an even greater number of applications this year."

Scholarship recipients are carefully selected based on academic excellence, leadership skills, community involvement and financial need. Traditionally, the Point Foundation has paid particular attention to those students whose financial support has been withdrawn by their parents or families after the students came out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.

The selection process begins with online applications and culminates with a face-to-face interview. "While the application and selection process can be demanding, it is also very rewarding to take part in this process," Point Regent and Selections Subcommittee Chair Shelley Fischel said.

The average amount of annual support devoted to each scholar is between $25,000 - $33,000. The application deadline for students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs for the 2010-11 year is February 12, 2010. For more information, visit www.pointfoundation.org.