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Adult Learners Scholarship

Enhance your education with this scholarship for members ages 25 and older.

Apply now

The Adult Learners Scholarship application period is open from Jan. 27 to March 13!

About the Adult Learners Scholarship

In 1939, fifteen educators pooled their money – just $78.75 – to start a credit union for teachers. To honor the legacy of our founders, we offer the Desert Financial Foundation Adult Learners Scholarship to members ages 25 or older.

In 2026, thirty applicants will be selected to receive $3,000 each in scholarship funds, to be distributed directly to the Arizona-based college, university or professional certification program of their choice.

Requirements 

  • Be age 25 or older.
  • Be a current member of Desert Financial in good standing.1
  • Be enrolled in (or have plans to enroll in) an accredited college, university or certification program in Arizona during the 2026-2027 academic year, graduating no sooner than spring 2027. 
  • Show a demonstrated financial need. 
  • Write essays describing your current educational and career goals and financial needs. 

Before submitting a nomination, please review these important guidelines.

Scholarship application process

Step 1
Fill out the application. Make sure you’re able to complete the application in one sitting. Information on partially completed applications won’t be saved.
Step 2
Your application will be reviewed and verified by Desert Financial Foundation’s Scholarship Committee.
Step 3
If your application is accepted for a scholarship award, you will be notified via email in April.

Fill out the form below to apply!

Please make sure all sections of the application are filled out by the student applying for the scholarship.

Essay Questions:

Please respond to the following essay questions. The essay questions provide an opportunity for you to elaborate on your current educational and career goals and financial need.

What Adult Learners scholars are saying

"It means so much for someone like me who one year ago packed their bags and came to the United States to get an education. I've put in the work, and you recognizing me means so much, not just to me, but to people who look like me and are thinking of getting an education."
Tino M.

Disclosures

Desert Financial Foundation is a nonprofit organization recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, EIN: 81-1028132.

1To be in good standing, a member must hold a share (savings) account with a minimum balance of $25 and no other delinquent products.

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