More than $4 million in scholarships available through Rhode Island Foundation

April 13 Is the first major deadline to apply for aid that helped send nearly 30 East Providence students to college last year.

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI -- At the time of year when colleges are sending out their financial aid packages, more than $4 million in scholarships is available through the Rhode Island Foundation.

Last year, nearly 30 students from East Providence received aid to attend schools, ranging from the University of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College to Brown and Roger Williams.

“Our scholarships help students and their families bridge gaps that might seem overwhelming,” said David N. Cicilline, the Foundation’s president and CEO. “This support can make dreams come true, both for the students who receive it and for the donors who make it possible. The results of their generosity will be felt for years as these young people make their mark in the workplace and in their communities.”

Dozens of individual and organizational donors have established scholarship funds at the Foundation to help students cover the cost of tuition and room and board.

“It has never been easier to apply. We have hundreds of scholarship opportunities, with many only requiring completion of a single universal application,” said Cicilline.

In addition to general assistance, the Foundation offers several programs that focus on specific majors. The Ocean State Media Scholarship helps students pursuing journalism or communications as a career. At up to $60,000 over four years, it is one of the Foundation’s largest awards. There are also dozens of scholarships of up to $10,000 focused on nursing.

In addition to help with college costs, the Foundation offers aid to Rhode Islanders who attend trade or technical schools in preparation for employment through funds like the David L. Taton Family Vocational/Technical Scholarship Fund.

For most of the scholarship funds, the deadline to apply is April 13. To apply for most of the Foundation’s scholarships, visit www.rifoundation.org. 

The scholarship assistance is just one way the Foundation supports education. In 2025 alone, the Foundation awarded more than $5.5 million in grants through its Education and Student Success Community Priority.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Through civic leadership, fundraising and grantmaking activities, together with partners and neighbors, the Foundation is helping to create progress that lasts. For more information, visit www.rifoundation.org.