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At the time of year when colleges are sending out their financial aid packages, more than $4 million in scholarships is available through the Rhode Island Foundation.     

“Our scholarships help students and their families bridge gaps that might seem overwhelming,” said David N. Cicilline, the Foundation’s president and CEO. “This support can make dreams come true, both for the students who receive it and for the donors who make it possible. The results of their generosity will be felt for years as these young people make their mark in the workplace and in their communities.”      

Dozens of individual and organizational donors have established scholarship funds at the Foundation to help students cover the cost of tuition and room and board.   

“It has never been easier to apply. We have hundreds of scholarship opportunities, with many only requiring completion of a single universal application,” said Cicilline.  

One of the Foundation’s most generous programs is the Robert G. and Joyce Andrew Scholarship Fund, which helped more than 170 students attend college last year.    

“This aid will enable me to focus on my academic pursuits and participate more fully in campus life without the stress of dealing with a big financial burden,” said Melissa Aguilar of Johnston, who is majoring in public relations and communications at Roger Williams University with the help of an Andrew scholarship.   

In addition to general assistance, the Foundation offers several programs that focus on specific majors. The Ocean State Media Scholarship helps students pursuing journalism or communications as a career. At up to $60,000 over four years, it is one of the Foundation’s largest awards. 

 "When I found out I received the Ocean State Media Scholarship, I was at a loss for words. I felt an immediate sense of gratitude and relief, knowing I could pursue my dream career of broadcast-journalism at a world-renowned journalism institute without the financial burden," said Scarlett Biancuzzo of Bristol, who is majoring journalism and political science at the University of Missouri with the help of the scholarship.  

The Foundation also awards dozens of scholarships of up to $10,000 focused on nursing. For more information, visit rifoundation.org/nursing. 

In addition to help with college costs, the Foundation offers aid to Rhode Islanders who attend trade or technical schools in preparation for employment through funds like the David L. Taton Family Vocational/Technical Scholarship Fund.   

For most of the scholarship funds, the deadline to apply is April 13. To apply, visit rifoundation.org.    

The scholarship assistance is just one way the Foundation supports education. In 2025 alone, the Foundation awarded more than $5.5 million in grants through its Education and Student Success Community Priority.    

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Through civic leadership, fundraising and grantmaking activities, together with partners and neighbors, the Foundation is helping to create progress that lasts.