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Scholarship Programs

The Washington State Fair Foundation awards $157,000 in scholarships annually to Washington students.

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED AND WILL OPEN DECEMBER 1, 2024

The Blue Ribbon Scholarship Program is made possible through the generosity of the Foundation’s donors. Since the inception of the program in 1991, more than $2,000,000 in awards have been distributed and have provided a "fair chance" at a college education. As support of the program has grown, so have the opportunities for students. We are now pleased to offer scholarships to students statewide.

Interested in supporting the Blue Ribbon Scholarship Program? Gifts made to Washington State Fair Foundation provide scholarships for high school seniors and adult learners, keep the Traveling Farm on the road and allow for new projects to be funded, like Piglet Palace, Classic Coaster Park, The Farm at SillyVille and The History Experience.

Scholarship Opportunities

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED AND WILL OPEN DECEMBER 1, 2024

For any Scholarship questions, please email scholarships@thefair.com.

Students only need to submit one application for all our scholarships offered online. The application system will automatically apply students for the scholarships in which they qualify.

Click any of the scholarships below to see specific qualifications or apply directly.

The $3,000 Fair Chance Scholarship is awarded to 26 Washington students pursuing higher education. All funds are paid directly to the recipient’s college, university or trade school to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Graduating high school senior or adult learner (at least one year out of high school)
Student must be a resident of Washington state
Attending an accredited two-or four-year college or university
All applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7
Currently working, volunteering or involved in a school-sponsored activity at least 8 hours per month
Prior involvement with the Fair (4H, FFA, etc.) and financial need may be considered, though neither is a requirement
Most recent copy of transcript (unofficial)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

RECIPIENTS

Fair Chance Scholarships will be awarded to 20 high school seniors and six adult learners (at least one year out of high school) from across the state of Washington.

APPLICATION

The Fair Chance Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application, we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The $3,000 Fair Chance “Trade School” Scholarship is awarded to two Washington students pursuing an education in a trade. An example of a trade could be cosmetology, esthetician, electrician, plumbing, graphic design, construction management, radiation specialist and many more! All funds are paid directly to the recipient’s trade school to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Graduating high school senior or adult learner (at least one year out of high school)
Student must be a resident of Washington state
Attending an accredited trade school
All applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7
Currently working, volunteering or involved in a school-sponsored activity at least 8 hours per month
Prior involvement with the Fair (4H, FFA, etc.) and financial need may be considered, though neither is a requirement
Most recent copy of transcript (unofficial)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Fair Chance Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application, we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The $4,000 Kent and Carolyn Hojem Music Scholarship is awarded to one Washington student who demonstrates true dedication to achieving excellence in their chosen career path. The scholarship is designed to aid deserving individuals passionate about a career in the music industry including performance (musicians, vocalists) as well as music education, music history and music therapy.

CRITERIA

Graduating high school senior or adult learner (at least one year out of high school)
State of Washington resident
Attending an accredited two- or four-year college, university or trade/technical school
All applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7
Currently working, volunteering or involved in a school-sponsored activity at least 8 hours per month (preferred, but not required)
Prior involvement with the Fair (4H, FFA, etc.) and financial need may be considered, though neither is a requirement
Most recent copy of transcript (unofficial)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

RECIPIENTS

The $4,000 Kent and Carolyn Hojem Music Scholarship is awarded to one student from across the state of Washington.

APPLICATION

The Kent and Carolyn Hojem Music Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The $4,000 Hojem Forestry Scholarship designed and awarded to a Washington student pursuing a degree in silviculture/forestry or closely related field. Examples of related fields may include Forest Biology, Wood Science and Technology and Natural Resources. This scholarship is paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Must be a resident of Washington State
Graduating high school senior or adult learner (at least one year out of high school)
Attending an accredited trade school or a two-year or four-year college or university or trade
All applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7.
Currently working, volunteering or involved in a school-sponsored activity of at least 8 hours per month (preferred, but not required)
Prior involvement with the Fair (4H, FFA, etc.) and financial need may be considered, though neither is a requirement
Most recent copy of transcript (unofficial)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Hojem Forestry Science Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Ren Martin Trade School / Career Training Endowment Scholarship was created to support students interested in pursuing a career in the trades. Two $1,000 awards are paid directly to the recipient’s vocational / technical school to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Must be a resident of Washington
High School Senior or an adult learner planning to attend an accredited vocational / technical school / career school
Financial need may be considered, though is not a requirement
Unofficial transcripts
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Trade School / Career Training Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application, we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Bob and Lorraine Lightbody Endowment Scholarship was developed as an award for students who wish to help others. This scholarship seeks to support those students who strive to make a difference by quietly stepping in to help others at school or in the community. Two applicants will be awarded $1,000 each. These awards will be paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Graduating senior from a comprehensive high school in the Puyallup, Sumner-Bonney Lake, White River or Enumclaw School Districts
Attending an accredited two-or four-year college or university or an accredited technical institution
Must be nominated by school staff or community member and once nominated include a written explanation (minimum 300 words) of why you were nominated and how made a difference at school or in the community
Two letters of recommendation from teachers/school staff, club advisors, coaches, or community leaders that describe ways that the student has contributed to help the school or community
Preference is given to those demonstrating a willingness to volunteer or step in to help without a formal leadership position (e.g. class officer, team captain)
Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed
Financial need is not a factor nor is GPA

APPLICATION

The Bob and Lorraine Lightbody Endowment Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application, we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Community Hero Scholarship is awarded to two Washington students pursuing higher education at an accredited two or four year college, university or trade/technical school. Students must be a graduating high school senior.

The $2,500 awards are payable over one year. All funds are paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

The applicant has been a catalyst for a cause that meets basic human needs or enriches the lives of others, or
The applicant has exhibited dedication and selflessness, or
The applicant has made a special and significant impact on individuals, families, or the community at large, or
The applicant has gone "above and beyond" to serve and inspire others

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be a resident of Washington
All applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7
Applicants must also be currently working, volunteering, or involved in a school-sponsored activity at least 8 hours per month, on average
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed
Additional Requirement: Applicants must provide a 500 word essay describing how they impacted the community. Applicant can also provide further documentation such as newspaper articles, webpage acknowledgements or other information highlighting your community impact

APPLICATION

The Community Hero Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Heritage Scholarship is awarded to five graduating seniors: one each from Puyallup, Rogers, Emerald Ridge, Sumner and Bonney Lake High Schools. The $3,000 awards are payable in full the first year following the award. All funds are paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

PHS, RHS, ERHS, SHS or BLHS graduating senior with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7
Attending an accredited two or four year college, university or trade/technical school
Currently working, volunteering or involved in a school-sponsored activity at least 8 hours per month, on average
Prior involvement with the Fair (4H, FFA, etc.) and financial need may be considered, though neither is a requirement
Most recent copy of transcript (unofficial)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Heritage Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

Anderson Law Enforcement / Police Scholarship (includes Police, Sheriff, State Patrol, Game Warden and Corrections Officer)

The Anderson Law Enforcement / Police Scholarship is awarded to a student pursuing a career in the field of law enforcement including police, sheriff, state patrol, game warden or corrections officer. The $5,000 award is payable in full the first year following the award. All funds are paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Washington resident: graduating seniors OR returning students/adult learners
Attending an accredited college or university (two or four year) in Washington; school must offer a Criminal Justice program
Preference will be given to students pursuing a career in law enforcement as listed above
Recipient must be a full-time student, continuing in the field of Law Enforcement
Cover letter required
Unofficial transcripts (high school or most recent two years of schooling)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Anderson Law Enforcement / Police Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Anderson Veterinary School Scholarship is awarded to a student currently in his/her second year of veterinary school at WSU, specifically studying equine care. The $5,000 award is payable in full the first year following the award. All funds are paid directly to WSU to be used toward tuition and books.

CRITERIA

Entering 3rd year at WSU College of Veterinary Medicine, with an emphasis on equine care
Recipient must be a full-time student
Cover letter
Unofficial transcripts
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Anderson Veterinary School Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

Four Bill & Laura Stoner Endowment Scholarships will be awarded to assist recipients in reaching their educational and career goals. The $1,250 awards are paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Graduating senior from Puyallup, Rogers, Emerald Ridge, Walker, Sumner or Bonney Lake High School, OR homeschooled resident of Puyallup or Sumner OR adult learner attending Pierce College
Attending an accredited two or four year college or university (adult learners must be attending Pierce College)
Cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher
Demonstrated financial need
Most recent copy of transcript (unofficial)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Bill & Laura Stoner Endowment Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Fred Oldfield Scholarship for the Arts is awarded to two graduating seniors: one from Puyallup High School, Rogers High School, Emerald Ridge High School, Sumner High School, Bonney Lake High School, or the Tacoma School of the Arts AND one graduating senior from across Washington state.
The $3,000 awards are paid directly to the recipient’s college, university, career school or school of the arts to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Graduating senior from Puyallup, Rogers, Emerald Ridge, Sumner, Bonney Lake or Tacoma School of the Arts AND a graduating senior who is a resident of Washington state
Minimum, cumulative GPA of 2.7
Demonstrated involvement in the study of the arts (ie: music, theater, art, graphics and other design studies)
Intention to pursue a career in the arts
Financial need may be considered, though is not a requirement
Most recent copy of transcript (unofficial)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Fred Oldfield Scholarship for the Arts application is available online. By completing our online application, we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Agriculture / Veterinary Science Education Scholarship is funded by the Washington State Fair Rodeo Wranglers to support students interested in pursuing a degree in an agriculture-related field or veterinary sciences. The $1,500 award is paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Senior graduating from high school in the state of Washington and attending an accredited two or four year college or university
Demonstrated interest in the field of agriculture or veterinary sciences, and an intention to pursue a career in one of these fields
Must provide most current transcripts (unofficial)
Demonstrated financial need
Preference may be given to students who have participated in FFA or 4-H
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Agriculture / Veterinary Science Education Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Tom Absher Memorial Scholarship is awarded to one graduating senior who will be attending the University of Washington. The $2,000 award is paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books.

CRITERIA

Graduating senior from Puyallup, Rogers, Emerald Ridge, Bonney Lake, Sumner or Cascade Christian High School
Accepted to and planning to attend the University of Washington, Seattle or Tacoma campus
Most recent copy of transcript (unofficial)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Tom Absher Memorial Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application, we will automatically apply you for all scholarships in which you qualify. Please note that the Tom Absher Memorial Scholarship is contingent upon your acceptance to the University of Washington.

The Korum Family Arts Scholarship Competition is intended to promote appreciation for the arts, to encourage young artists in the pursuit of their artistic and educational growth, and to showcase the uniqueness of Washington State.

Scholarships will be awarded to the top three finishers in the competition (first place: $2,500, second place: $1,500, third place: $1,000) and are paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books within 24 months of award.

The winning piece (1st place) will be retained by the Foundation and auctioned at the annual Washington State Fair Foundation Round Up Auction; it will not be returned to the student.

All proceeds from the sale of the winning art piece will fund the Washington State Fair Foundation scholarship program.

This is a special competition of the Washington State Fair Junior/Senior High School Art Show. Online registration will open in early January and will close at the end of March. Artwork will be displayed in the Jr/Sr High Art Show at the Washington State Spring Fair.

KORUM FAMILY ARTS SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION

Held in conjunction with the Jr/Sr High School Art Show, this annual special competition is only open to high school juniors and seniors during the current school year.

Entries should showcase the uniqueness of Washington state - share what makes Washington special to you. One entry per student.

Entries submitted to the Korum Family Arts Scholarship Competition are additional to the Jr/Sr High School Art Show and will be judged separately. The same piece may not be entered in both shows. Please do NOT frame your entry. We ask that all artwork is NO bigger than 20x20.

A separate entry form is required in addition to regular online registration. Complete entry information, which contains links to the Korum Family Arts Scholarship info & form, will be available in early March 2025; please check back here.

"Mount Rainier Dreams," is an acrylic painting on canvas, by Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart student Gloria. This amazing piece of art was selected as the 1st Place Korum Family Art Scholarship Competition winner. Gloria will receive a $2,500 scholarship and will attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the fall.

The Campbell-Montgomery Business / Communications Scholarship is awarded to one graduating senior from Pierce County. The $2,000 award is disbursed directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books. The Campbell-Montgomery Business / Communications Scholarship was created by David and Lani Campbell to support students pursuing a degree in Business and/or Communications.

CRITERIA

Graduating senior attending high school in Pierce County
Pursuing a degree in Business and/or Communications
Financial need may be considered, though is not a requirement
Recipient must be a full-time student
Most recent copy of transcript (unofficial)
Two letters of recommendation: one from a scholastic contact and one from an employer, volunteer contact, or advisor of school-sponsored activity. Letters written by relatives of the applicant are not allowed

APPLICATION

The Campbell-Montgomery Business/Communications Scholarship application is available online. By completing our online application, we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Campbell‐Montgomery Writing Scholarship is awarded to one graduating senior from Puyallup, Rogers or Emerald Ridge High School.

The $2,000 award is paid directly to the recipient’s college or university to be used toward tuition or books. The Campbell‐Montgomery Scholarship was created by Robert Campbell and Marna Montgomery Campbell in hopes to spur better writing, better communication and better thinking.

By completing our online application, we will automatically apply you for all online scholarships in which you qualify.

The Washington State Fair Foundation supports the Daffodil Festival by awarding a $5,000 scholarship to the Daffodil Queen. The award is announced at the Queen’s Coronation ceremony in the spring.

Communities In Schools of Puyallup collaborates with the Washington State Fair Foundation to highlight the amazing work and contributions that are being made in the Puyallup Community. Students must be nominated by school or community staff to be eligible for the Student Citizen of the Year. The award winner will receive a $2,500 scholarship from the Washington State Fair Foundation payable to the student's school choice to be used for tuition or books. Final selection is made by the CIS Puyallup Board of Directors.

Criteria:

Student has displayed a passion for bettering their community through their leadership and community service
Graduating High School Senior in Puyallup School District
Nominated by staff or faculty of Puyallup School District
Minimum GPA of 3.0

This award is announced at the end of year CIS event.