Scholarship amounts vary
Investing in tomorrow's trusted voices
The Houston Association of Black Journalists is committed to empowering aspiring media and communications professionals through education, mentorship, and opportunity. Our scholarship program helps students pursue careers in journalism, public relations, strategic communications, digital media, and related fields by reducing financial barriers to higher education. Through the generosity of our members, sponsors, and community partners, we are cultivating the next generation of trusted voices.
Email submission to: Houstonabj713@gmail.com
Subject line: HABJ Scholarship
Essay topic: Updated each semester.
You may also mail all packages to:
HABJ
P.O. Box 8413
Houston, TX 77288
Application checklist
- Official undergraduate or graduate transcript
- Two letters of recommendation
- Essay based on the assigned topic
- Current resume
- Cover letter describing any special circumstances
- Proof of fall enrollment (graduating high school seniors only)
Everything you need to complete your scholarship application.
- Confirm Enrollment StatusApplicants must be graduating high school seniors with proof of enrollment at an accredited college or university for the upcoming fall semester, or full-time undergraduate or graduate students enrolled for at least 12 credit hours during the upcoming fall semester.
- Confirm Location, Major, and GPAApplicants must reside in the Greater Houston area or attend an accredited college or university within the Greater Houston area, be pursuing a degree in journalism, communications, public relations, advertising, digital media, broadcasting, or a related field, and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- Gather DocumentsApplicants must submit an official undergraduate or graduate transcript, a current resume, two letters of recommendation, a cover letter highlighting any special circumstances they would like the scholarship committee to consider, and the required essay.
- Prepare EssayApplicants must prepare a minimum 500-word essay based on the assigned topic for the current scholarship cycle. Essays must be at least two pages, double-spaced, and typed in 12-point Times New Roman font.
- Submit Completed ApplicationApplicants must submit a complete application package, including all required materials, by the published application deadline. Applications may be submitted by email to HoustonABJ713@gmail.com with the subject line "HABJ Scholarship," or by mail to: Houston Association of Black Journalists | P.O. Box 8413 | Houston, TX 77288.
Frequently asked questions.
Can high school seniors apply for an HABJ scholarship?
Yes. High school seniors who have been accepted to an accredited college or university and plan to pursue a degree in journalism, media, communications, public relations, advertising, or a related field are encouraged to apply. Applicants must also meet HABJ’s residency or Greater Houston college eligibility requirements.
Do I have to live in Houston to qualify for an HABJ scholarship?
No. Applicants may either live in the Greater Houston area or attend a college or university within the Greater Houston area. The Houston metropolitan region includes Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, and Waller counties.
Are graduating college seniors who plan to attend graduate school eligible to apply?
Yes. Students who have been accepted to an accredited graduate program and will be enrolled for a minimum of nine credit hours are eligible to apply, provided they meet all other HABJ scholarship requirements.
Can I submit an unofficial transcript with my application?
Yes. You may submit an unofficial transcript with your scholarship application. If selected as a scholarship recipient, you will be required to provide an official transcript before the award is finalized.
How important is a letter of recommendation?
A letter of recommendation is an important part of your scholarship application. It provides insight into your character, leadership, work ethic, and potential for success beyond what is reflected in your transcript. At least one letter of recommendation from a teacher, professor, employer, or other qualified reference must be submitted with your application for it to be considered complete.
Is your judging based upon mostly grades?
No. While applicants must meet the minimum GPA requirement, our scholarship selection process is holistic. We look for well-rounded students who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, extracurricular participation, and a genuine passion for journalism, media, communications, public relations, or related fields.
How many scholarships does HABJ award each year?
The number of scholarships awarded each year varies based on available funding and the generosity of our donors and sponsors. HABJ is committed to recognizing and supporting as many deserving students as possible through our scholarship program.
Can I attend the scholarship awards ceremony if I'm not a scholarship recipient?
Yes. The HABJ Scholarship Awards Ceremony is open to the public. Family members, friends, supporters, and members of the community are encouraged to attend and celebrate the achievements of our scholarship recipients. General admission and student tickets are available for purchase online.
Questions about your application?
Email the scholarship committee — subject line "HABJ Scholarship".