Program offers up to $5,000 to help eligible students
Hillsborough County, Fla. (Jan. 21, 2026) - Hillsborough County is now accepting applications for its Community Action Board (CAB) Scholarship, a need-based program designed to help local students continue their education beyond high school.
The application window opened Jan. 12 and will close on Friday, March 20, or when capacity is reached, whichever comes first.
Achieving a higher education is an important life choice for young people and their families. The Hillsborough County Social Services department, in partnership with the Hillsborough County Community Action Board, is committed to helping eligible students reach this milestone by offering scholarships of up to $5,000, funded through the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program.
The number of scholarships awarded and the amount awarded depend on available grant funding. Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible applicants who submit complete applications with all required documentation.
CAB Scholarship funds may be used at trade schools, community colleges, or four-year universities to help offset tuition and related educational expenses, allowing students to focus on their academic goals rather than financial barriers.
As part of the application process, students are required to describe their academic status using the following prompts:
High school/GED applications: Explain why they should be selected for the scholarship by discussing academic strengths and areas for growth, career goals, and any personal or financial circumstances that may affect their ability to pursue higher education.
Currently enrolled college students: Describe their most meaningful achievements since entering college and how the achievements relate to their field of study and future career goals. Explain how this scholarship will support both financial and non-financial needs while pursuing post-secondary education.
Eligibility requirements
- Be 16 to 24 years old and have a high school diploma or GED (16-year-olds may apply if they are graduating seniors)
- Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA
- Reside in Hillsborough County
- Plan to pursue a first bachelor's degree, associate degree, or professional certification
- Meet household income limits within 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines under the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)
- Not be seeking a master's degree or a second bachelor's degree
How to apply
Students are encouraged to review the CAB Scholarship Guidelines and Federal Poverty Guidelines before applying to ensure all required documents are submitted.
Applications must be completed online once all information and documentation are collected.
For questions about the application or missing information, applicants may call (813) 272-5220 or email SocialServicesCSBG@HCFL.gov.