Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become eligible for the Buchanan Promise?
To earn The Promise scholarship, students must:
Be enrolled in Buchanan Community Schools, or Buchanan Virtual Academy, continuously, since at least the beginning of 9th grade, and
Be residents of the Buchanan School District, continuously, since at least the beginning of 9th grade.
* Students who meet all of these requirements are eligible to receive the Promise scholarship beginning with the graduating class of 2017.
How much scholarship money will I receive?
Beginning with the class of 2022, students may receive up to $3,750/year for four years, for a maximum of $15,000. Graduates who have attended school in the Buchanan District and lived in the district for a minimum of four years receive a scholarship equal to 70 percent of the grant, with a sliding scale for those in between.
What does the Buchanan Promise pay for?
The Buchanan Promise scholarship is a “first dollar” scholarship and is applicable to any accredited postsecondary institution to be used for educational expenses, including tuition, fees, books, and room & board.
Eligible post-secondary institutions:
Four-year degree programs
Two-year degree programs
Certificate or vocational/trade programs*
Expenses eligible for Promise scholarship funds are tuition, fees, room, board, and books.
Colleges and schools invoice The Pittsburgh Promise for the scholarship funds each term or semester. Checks are sent directly to the schools.
Where can I use the Buchanan Promise?
Students may attend any accredited college, university, trade, or technical school/program in the United States. If a trade/technical program has not been previously paid out to before you may be required to submit an appeal. This process has been made very easy and we are happy to help you complete it.
How long do I have to use the Buchanan Promise?
The Promise scholarship must be used within six years of graduation from high school.
Once you are deemed eligible to receive the scholarship you are required to complete an acceptance application that will be emailed to you. This is where you will indicate whether you plan to utilize the funds immediately or would like to defer.
Students who enter the military after high school should contact The Promise office once they are discharged.
How do I apply for the Buchanan Promise?
The online application opens during the students’ senior year. Students must apply by June 30th after graduating. The link to the Online Application is available on this website under the Application tab beginning in January.
How does my school get the Buchanan Promise scholarship funds?
Students enter the name of the school or program they are attending through the Buchanan Promise Pledge for first-year graduates or the Buchanan Promise Renewal Application for current Promise students. Once you have successfully completed the appropriate form, we will begin processing your check. Please allow up to two weeks for your school to receive your check.