The Ultimate Guide to Steiner Family Scholarship: How to Apply and Win in 2025
Reading time: 8 min
Dr. Jessica Miller
Financial Aid Specialist | 12+ years guiding students through scholarship processes
Finding the right scholarship can transform your educational journey, lifting the financial burden that often accompanies pursuing higher education. The Steiner Family Scholarship stands out as a generous opportunity for motivated students looking to achieve their academic goals without overwhelming financial stress. As someone who has guided hundreds of students through successful scholarship applications, I’m excited to share this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Steiner Family Scholarship application process with confidence.
What is the Steiner Family Scholarship?
The Steiner Family Scholarship Fund is a prestigious scholarship program established to provide financial assistance to students pursuing undergraduate education at accredited two-year or four-year colleges, universities, vocational-technical schools, or CEGEPs (in Canada). This scholarship represents the Steiner family’s commitment to education and their belief in supporting the next generation of leaders and professionals.
The program is administered by Scholarship America, the nation’s largest designer and manager of scholarships and education support programs. Their involvement ensures a fair and thorough evaluation process, giving applicants confidence in the legitimacy and professionalism of the scholarship program.
Students pursuing higher education can benefit from the Steiner Family Scholarship
Background of the Steiner Family Scholarship
The Steiner Family Scholarship was established in honor of Leo & Jeanette Steiner, who valued education highly throughout their lives. Leo graduated from Chilton High School in 1944, while Jeanette graduated from New Holstein High School in 1950. Together, they raised 16 children, all of whom graduated from New Holstein High School and pursued further education at various institutions across the country.
Leo worked at Tecumseh Products in New Holstein until retirement, after which he returned to his first passion: farming. Jeanette worked for the New Holstein School District as a Reading Teacher’s Aid and continued volunteering with reading programs after retirement. Their commitment to education and community service forms the foundation of this scholarship program.
“Education is the most powerful tool you can use to change your world. The Steiner Family Scholarship exists to make that tool accessible to more students.” — From the Steiner Family Scholarship mission statement
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, it’s crucial to understand if you meet the eligibility criteria. The Steiner Family Scholarship has specific requirements that all applicants must satisfy:
- Be age 26 and under as of the application deadline date
- Be a high school senior/student in their final year of upper-secondary school OR a graduate who plans to enroll in full-time undergraduate study OR a student already enrolled in full-time undergraduate study
- Be planning to attend (or already attending) an accredited two-year or four-year college, university, vocational-technical school, or CEGEP for the entire upcoming academic year
- Reside in the United States or Canada
- Have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
Meeting these basic eligibility requirements is your first step toward applying for this scholarship. However, it’s worth noting that preference is given to children of employees of former AmeriPride, Canadian Linen, and Québec Linge companies who had two or more years of employment as of January 19, 2018, the official date of sale of these businesses.
Award Details and Benefits
The Steiner Family Scholarship provides substantial financial support to successful applicants, with awards structured based on the type of educational institution you plan to attend:
| Institution Type | Award Amount | Maximum Lifetime Award |
|---|---|---|
| Two-year colleges, vocational-technical schools, or CEGEPs | $2,500 per year | $10,000 |
| Four-year colleges and universities | $5,000 per year | $20,000 |
These awards are renewable for up to three consecutive years or until a bachelor’s degree is earned, whichever occurs first. Renewal is based on satisfactory academic performance and continuation of the program by the Steiner Family Scholarship Fund.
It’s important to note that the awards will be issued in U.S. currency, regardless of whether the recipient is from the United States or Canada. Also, provided there are qualified applicants, recipients from both countries will be selected in proportion to the number of applications received per country.
Pro Tip:
The scholarship is exclusively for undergraduate study. If you’re considering graduate studies, you’ll need to explore other funding options after completing your bachelor’s degree.
Application Process
Applying for the Steiner Family Scholarship involves several steps that must be completed accurately and on time. The application typically becomes available in January each year on the Scholarship America website.
Required Documentation
As part of your application, you must upload the following:
- A current, complete transcript of grades (not grade reports)
- Transcripts must display:
- Student name
- School name
- Grades
- Credit hours for each course
- Term in which each course was taken
- SAT or ACT test scores (if not listed on your high school transcript, you must upload them separately)
- Personal statement outlining your educational and career goals
- Information about your extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service
- Details about your work experience
The Steiner Family Scholarship can help you achieve your graduation dreams
Application Timeline
While specific dates may vary slightly each year, here’s a general timeline to help you plan:
- January: Application period opens
- March: Application deadline (typically late March)
- April: Notification of recipients (late April)
- August: Scholarship payments processed
Important Warning:
Your application is not complete unless all required materials are submitted electronically by the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, regardless of circumstances. Set calendar reminders at least two weeks before the deadline to ensure you have time to gather all necessary documents.
Selection Criteria
Understanding what the scholarship committee looks for can significantly increase your chances of success. Steiner Family Scholarship recipients are selected based on:
Academic Record
Your GPA, course rigor, and academic achievements
Leadership & Participation
Involvement in school and community activities
Work Experience
Jobs held, responsibilities, and skills gained
Educational & Career Goals
Clear objectives and plans for the future
Unusual Personal or Family Circumstances
Challenges overcome or unique situations that have shaped your educational journey
It’s important to note that financial need is not considered in the selection process for this scholarship. The evaluation is based solely on merit and the criteria listed above.
Tips for a Successful Application
As someone who has reviewed countless scholarship applications and helped students secure funding, I’d like to share some insider tips to strengthen your Steiner Family Scholarship application:
1. Start Early and Be Thorough
Begin your application process at least a month before the deadline. This gives you ample time to gather transcripts, write a compelling personal statement, and review your application for errors.
2. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement
Your personal statement should clearly articulate your educational and career goals while showcasing your unique qualities. Use specific examples to demonstrate your determination, leadership abilities, and commitment to your field of study.
3. Highlight Your Achievements Strategically
Don’t just list your activities and accomplishments—explain their significance and what you learned from them. Focus on quality over quantity, emphasizing experiences that demonstrate leadership, perseverance, and growth.
4. Secure Strong Transcripts
Request your official transcripts early to ensure they arrive before the deadline. If your GPA is just at the minimum requirement (3.0), emphasize other strengths in your application, such as significant improvement over time or excellence in your major subjects.
Dedication to academic excellence is a key selection factor
5. Proofread Thoroughly
Errors in your application can signal a lack of attention to detail. Have at least two people review your application materials before submission, looking for both grammatical errors and content improvements.
6. Follow All Instructions Exactly
Many applicants are disqualified simply for failing to follow directions. Pay close attention to word counts, required documentation, and submission formats.
Success Story:
One of my advisees, Maria, secured the Steiner Family Scholarship by focusing her personal statement on how she balanced academics with caring for her siblings after her mother’s illness. She didn’t just mention challenges; she highlighted the organizational and leadership skills she developed—exactly what the selection committee looks for.
What Happens After Receiving the Scholarship
If you’re selected as a Steiner Family Scholarship recipient, congratulations! Here’s what happens next:
- You’ll receive notification in late April
- Scholarship America will process payments in early August, directly to your educational institution
- For scholarship renewal, you’ll need to maintain satisfactory academic performance
- You may need to provide updated transcripts and enrollment information each year for renewal consideration
Remember that this scholarship is for undergraduate study only. If you change institutions or have questions about your award, contact Scholarship America promptly.
Alternative Scholarships Worth Considering
While the Steiner Family Scholarship is an excellent opportunity, it’s always wise to apply for multiple scholarships to maximize your chances of securing funding. Here are some other scholarship opportunities to consider:
- CVS Make Your Mark Scholarship – For students pursuing careers in healthcare and pharmacy
- Too Cool to Pay for School Scholarship – A merit-based opportunity with simpler application requirements
- Barry Griswell Scholarship – For students who have overcome significant challenges
- Meritorious Scholarship – For academically exceptional students
- Google Conference Scholarship – For students interested in technology and computer science
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for the Steiner Family Scholarship if I’m studying part-time?
No, the scholarship requires full-time enrollment in an undergraduate program at an accredited institution. Part-time students are not eligible.
Is the scholarship available for graduate students?
No, the Steiner Family Scholarship is for undergraduate study only. Graduate students should look for other funding opportunities.
How competitive is the Steiner Family Scholarship?
The scholarship is competitive, with recipients selected based on academic achievement, leadership, and other factors. However, the preference given to children of former AmeriPride, Canadian Linen, and Québec Linge employees may reduce competition for those who qualify for this preference.
Can international students apply?
You must reside in the United States or Canada to be eligible. While citizenship is not explicitly mentioned in the requirements, residency in these countries is necessary.
If I don’t get the scholarship this year, can I apply again next year?
Yes, as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply in subsequent years if you’re not selected initially.
Does the scholarship cover summer courses?
The scholarship is intended for the regular academic year. However, if summer courses are part of your full-time enrollment for the year, they may be covered. Contact Scholarship America directly for clarification on your specific situation.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the application deadline
- Submitting incomplete transcripts that don’t show all required information
- Writing generic personal statements that don’t showcase your unique qualities
- Failing to highlight leadership experiences and community involvement
- Neglecting to proofread application materials thoroughly
- Not following specific formatting requirements for documents
These mistakes can disqualify even the most qualified candidates. Take your time, follow instructions carefully, and review everything before submission.
Conclusion: Your Path to Steiner Scholarship Success
The Steiner Family Scholarship represents more than just financial assistance—it’s an investment in your future and a recognition of your potential. By thoroughly understanding the eligibility requirements, carefully preparing your application materials, and highlighting your unique strengths and experiences, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for this valuable opportunity.
Remember that preparation, attention to detail, and authenticity are your greatest allies in the scholarship application process. Start early, seek feedback from mentors or advisors, and put your best foot forward.
I’ve seen firsthand how scholarships like this transform educational journeys and open doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain closed. The Steiner Family’s commitment to education continues to make a difference in the lives of students across the United States and Canada. With careful preparation and a compelling application, you could be among the next group of students to benefit from their generosity.
The Steiner Family Scholarship can help fund your journey to graduation day
Key Takeaways
- The Steiner Family Scholarship offers $2,500 annually for two-year programs and $5,000 annually for four-year programs
- Eligibility includes being under 26, maintaining a 3.0 GPA, and residing in the US or Canada
- Selection criteria focus on academic achievement, leadership, work experience, and clear educational goals
- Applications typically open in January, with notifications in late April
- Careful preparation, authentic personal statements, and attention to detail are crucial for success
Have you applied for the Steiner Family Scholarship or other similar opportunities? What strategies worked best for you? Share your experiences in the comments to help other students on their scholarship journey.
