Since its inception in 1986, the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA) has been a beacon of hope and support for federal employees and their families. Over the years, FEEA has awarded more than 11,000 merit-based scholarships, collectively totaling over $14 million. These scholarships have been instrumental in helping federal public servants, their spouses, children, and grandchildren pursue higher education. Additionally, FEEA has provided nearly 200 scholarships to surviving children of federal employees who died or were severely injured in the line of duty during tragic events such as the Oklahoma City bombing, the 9/11 attacks, and the US Embassy and Consulate attacks in Kenya, Tanzania, and Libya.
As we look forward to 2025, FEEA continues its mission to champion higher education by offering scholarships ranging from . The application for the 2025 FEEA Scholarship Program is now open and will remain available until March 13, 2025. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Federal Employee Scholarship for 2025, covering eligibility criteria, application process, selection criteria, and more.
Eligibility Criteria
The FEEA Scholarship Program is designed to support a wide range of individuals connected to federal service. Eligible applicants include:
- Children, Step-Children, and Legal Dependents: These individuals must be dependents of full- or part-time permanent federal civilian or postal workers who have been employed with the federal government for more than three years.
- Federal Employees Themselves: Full- or part-time permanent federal civilian or postal workers with more than three years of service are eligible to apply.
- Spouses of Federal Employees: Spouses of eligible federal employees can also apply for the scholarship.
- Specific Association and Union Members: Some associations and unions partner with FEEA to provide specific scholarship programs for their employees, employees’ children, grandchildren, or spouses, or retirees’ children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren.
FEEA uses a common application for all its scholarships and co-sponsored programs, simplifying the process for applicants.
Scholarship Amounts and Usage
Scholarships awarded through the FEEA program range from $1,000 to $5,000 and are intended for one year of academic study at an accredited college or university. It’s important to note that the scholarship is not renewable; however, applicants may reapply each year they are eligible, regardless of whether they have received an award in the past.
The majority of scholarships are awarded for undergraduate study, with occasional awards available for graduate study. Scholarship funds are strictly designated for tuition and fees. If a recipient is awarded another scholarship that covers tuition and fees before FEEA awards are made, they must notify FEEA immediately at scholarships@feea.org. This allows FEEA to withdraw the application and reallocate the funds to another deserving applicant.
Application Process
The application process for the 2025 FEEA Scholarship Program is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
- Access the Application Portal: To begin your application, visit the WizeHive site at https://webportalapp.com/sp/feea. Click on “Sign In” and use the email you registered with and the password you selected to complete your login. If you forget your password, you can reset it using the “forgot password” link.
- Complete the Application: After logging in, click on the application showing your name to make any necessary changes or to complete the application. Ensure that all sections are filled out accurately and thoroughly.
- Submit Required Documents: Along with the application, you may need to submit additional documents such as transcripts, proof of federal employment, and letters of recommendation. Make sure to review the application requirements carefully to avoid any omissions.
- Review and Submit: Before submitting your application, review all the information to ensure it is complete and accurate. Once satisfied, submit your application before the March 13, 2025 deadline.
Selection Criteria
The FEEA Scholarship Selection Committee evaluates applicants based on several key factors:
- Academic and Personal Achievement: The committee considers your academic record, including GPA, class rank, and any honors or awards you have received. Personal achievements, such as leadership roles and extracurricular activities, are also taken into account.
- Community Service and Engagement: Your involvement in community service and civic engagement activities is a significant factor. The committee looks for applicants who have made a positive impact in their communities through volunteer work, service projects, or other forms of engagement.
- Quality of Writing: The substance and quality of your writing throughout the application are crucial. This includes your personal statement, essays, and any other written components of the application. Clear, compelling, and well-organized writing can significantly enhance your chances of being selected.
Award Notifications and Disbursement
Applicants will be notified of their final application status in August 2025 via the email address provided in their application. Scholarship checks are made out to the winner’s college or university and mailed to the home address. It is essential to ensure that your contact information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any delays in receiving your award notification.
Scholarship Funding and Partners
FEEA’s scholarship program is made possible through generous donations from individuals and partnerships with various organizations. For the 2025 scholarship competition, FEEA has partnered with several prominent groups, including:
- American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program (BCBS)
- Blacks in Government (BIG)
- The David O. “Doc” and Marian M. Cooke Memorial Fund
- Federal Managers Association (FMA)
- FEDS Protection
- Government Employees Health Association, Inc. (GEHA)
- National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE)
- National Council of Social Security Management Associations (NCSSMA)
- National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE)
- Professional Managers Association (PMA)
These partnerships help ensure that FEEA can continue to provide substantial support to federal employees and their families. However, it’s important to note that all scholarships are subject to the availability of funding.
Tax Implications
Scholarship recipients should be aware of potential tax implications related to their awards. The IRS provides guidance on this matter in Publication 970, which can be accessed at https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-970. It is advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand how your scholarship may affect your tax situation.
Conclusion
The Federal Employee Scholarship for 2025 represents a significant opportunity for federal employees and their families to achieve their educational goals. With a long history of supporting higher education and a commitment to recognizing merit and community service, FEEA continues to make a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals.
If you are eligible, don’t miss the chance to apply for this valuable scholarship. The application deadline is March 13, 2025, so start preparing your application today. By taking advantage of this opportunity, you can take a crucial step toward advancing your education and achieving your dreams.
For more information and to access the application, visit the FEEA website and the WizeHive portal. Good luck to all applicants, and may your pursuit of knowledge lead you to a brighter future.
