The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Scholarships 2026: Fully Funded Education and Arts Opportunities for African-American and Black Students- 2026
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) continues its long-standing commitment to educational equity and leadership development through its 2026 scholarship programs. For more than three decades, CBCF—working in partnership with the spouses of Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) members—has provided critical financial support to talented and deserving students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to community service.
Each year, the Foundation awards over 300 scholarships to students across a wide range of academic disciplines and educational levels. These opportunities are designed to reduce financial barriers to education while empowering the next generation of leaders, creatives, policymakers, scientists, and professionals. CBCF operates as a non-partisan, 501(c)(3) equal opportunity organization, and its work extends beyond scholarships to include internships and fellowships that prepare students for impactful careers.
Below is a detailed overview of the CBC Spouses scholarship opportunities currently open for the 2026 cycle, including eligibility focus areas, timelines, and program objectives.
CBC Spouses Education Scholarship (2026)
Application Opens: January 5, 2026
Application Closes: March 27, 2026
Established in 1988, the CBC Spouses Education Scholarship was created in direct response to federal budget cuts to education programs—cuts that disproportionately affected communities of color. Recognizing the urgent need to protect access to higher education, the spouses of Congressional Black Caucus members came together to create a scholarship that would uplift academically talented and highly motivated students.
This scholarship supports African-American and Black students pursuing:
- Undergraduate degrees
- Graduate degrees
- Doctoral degrees
Applicants may be enrolled in or planning to enroll in a wide variety of academic fields. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership ability, and demonstrated commitment to community service. Over the years, this program has transformed countless lives by enabling students to continue their education and pursue careers that positively impact society.
CBC Spouses Essay Contest (Junior & Senior High School Students)
Application Opens: January 5, 2026
Application Closes: March 27, 2026
The CBC Spouses Essay Contest is a unique academic opportunity tailored specifically for African-American and Black junior and senior high school students. Each year, participants are invited to engage critically with issues affecting their communities and the nation at large.
Students are given a topic that reflects some of the most pressing social, economic, or political challenges facing society today. They are then required to write an essay that demonstrates:
- Strong research skills
- Clear analysis
- Thoughtful opinion and argumentation
Submissions are reviewed and judged by a special committee of CBC Spouses. Beyond financial awards, the contest helps students develop essential skills in critical thinking, writing, and civic engagement—skills that are foundational for future academic and leadership success.
CBC Spouses Performing Arts Scholarship
Application Opens: January 5, 2026
Application Closes: March 27, 2026
Founded in 2000 in honor of the late music legend Curtis Mayfield, the CBC Spouses Performing Arts Scholarship is dedicated to supporting African-American and Black students pursuing degrees in the performing arts.
Eligible fields include, but are not limited to:
- Theater and drama
- Music and opera
- Dance and choreography
- Comedy
- Marching bands and musical performance
This scholarship recognizes the importance of artistic expression and cultural contribution, ensuring that talented students in creative fields receive the financial assistance needed to hone their craft and share their voices with the world.
CBC Spouses Visual Arts Scholarship
Application Opens: January 5, 2026
Application Closes: March 27, 2026
Established in 2006, the CBC Spouses Visual Arts Scholarship provides financial support to African-American and Black students pursuing degrees in visual and design-based disciplines.
Eligible areas include:
- Architecture
- Fashion and interior design
- Graphic design and illustration
- Painting, drawing, and ceramics
- Photography and video production
By investing in visual artists and designers, CBCF helps nurture creativity, innovation, and cultural storytelling within Black communities and beyond.
Important Eligibility Notes
Applicants should note that immediate relatives of certain individuals are not eligible for CBCF scholarship programs. This includes relatives of:
- Members of the Congressional Black Caucus
- CBC Spouses
- CBCF staff or Board members
- Staff of CBC Members or Spouses
- CBCF Corporate Advisory Council members
- CBCF sponsoring entities
A full definition of “immediate relatives” is provided by CBCF and should be reviewed carefully before applying.
Why CBCF Scholarships Matter
The impact of these scholarships goes far beyond financial assistance. Past recipients consistently highlight how CBCF support has enabled them to pursue lifelong learning, community service, and careers that improve lives globally. One recipient, Leslie Fuqua (CBC Spouses Education Scholarship, 2012–2013), described the award as life-transforming, crediting it with helping shape a future dedicated to developing affordable, lifesaving medicines and serving humanity.
How to Apply & Get More Information
Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the CBCF FAQ page for detailed application requirements and guidelines.
Contact Information:
Email: scholarships@cbcfinc.org
Phone: +1 (202) 263-2800
CBCF Headquarters:
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc.
1225 I Street NW, Suite 550
Washington, DC 20005, USA
If you are an African-American or Black student seeking academic, artistic, or leadership support, the CBCF 2026 scholarship programs present a powerful opportunity to advance your education and make a lasting impact in your community and beyond.
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