Second Career Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Selected Independent Funeral Homes Educational Trust

Introduction
Our Second‑Career Scholarship supports people changing careers to become licensed funeral directors. Each award is $1,500. Up to four scholarships are distributed each year—normally two in the Spring cycle (awarded in late June) and two in the Fall cycle (awarded in late December/early January).

Eligibility — before you begin
At the start of the online application you must complete the Eligibility Questionnaire to confirm you meet all requirements below:

- You are actively enrolled (either part‑time or full‑time, in‑person or online) in a Mortuary Science program accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE).
- You are not a relative of a funeral home owner currently operating in North America.
- You can document the following:
- Prior employment in at least one career (full‑ or part‑time) outside of funeral service, and that funeral service represents a new career path for you.
- Any tuition, fees owing, and any financial aid you have already received or are receiving.
- Mortuary science courses you have completed to date and the courses in which you are currently enrolled.
- Your current Mortuary Science GPA.
- You are able and willing to complete and electronically sign the online application and upload all required materials by the posted deadline.
- You have not been a previous recipient of a Second‑Career Scholarship.

Required materials — application checklist
Applications must be submitted through the online system by the Spring or Fall deadline. Incomplete submissions will not be considered. The application package must include:

- Personal essay (maximum 1,500 words).
- Financial Needs Assessment Form, completed and signed by an authorized representative of your academic institution.
- Coursework and GPA Assessment Form, completed and signed by an authorized representative of your academic institution.
- Letter of recommendation from a faculty member at your educational institution.
- Letter of recommendation from a current or former employer.

How to apply
Visit the Online Scholarship Application system to preview the application or begin your submission. Only applications submitted online and fully completed with all required forms and signatures will be reviewed.

Frequently asked question — award limits and timing
Award availability, number, and amounts depend on funding. Typically, four $1,500 scholarships are granted each year: two during the Spring cycle (awarded in late June) and two during the Fall cycle (awarded in late December/early January). Only online applications are accepted, and all required documentation must be completed and verified for an application to be eligible.