Robert C. Byrd Scholarships

Under this program, the federal government makes funds available to states to award scholarships to exceptionally able students for study at postsecondary schools.

Each state agency must establish guidelines for selecting scholars. Scholarships are awarded to entering freshmen. They can be renewed for an additional three years provided that funds are appropriated and the students maintain eligibility according to their state guidelines.

Byrd Scholarships in Louisiana

Prior to the 1996-97 award year, scholars could receive up to $1,500 annually. For the 1996-97 award year, both first year and continuing scholars received a pro-rated scholarship of $1,121. Awards were $1,110 for the 1997-98 year and were $1,500 for the 1998-99 year. Awards currently average $1,500 a year. Under a provsion of the Omnibus Consolidated Recissions and Appropriations Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-134), each scholarship must be pro-rated so that the number of new scholarship awards is maintained at the same level as the new scholarships awarded in 1996-97.

Learn more about Senator Robert C.Byrd

Updated November 5, 2009