GCSAA Scholars Competition

Scholarship Sponsored by Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

Overview
- The scholarship application period opens in late February and the deadline to apply is May 1.
- Award amounts range from $500 up to $6,000.

Eligibility
- You must be an undergraduate enrolled in an accredited program of two years or longer focused on golf or turfgrass management. Students who will graduate in spring 2026 are not eligible.
- Applicants must have finished at least the first year of study (a minimum of 24 credit hours or the equivalent) in a program related to golf course management.
- Applicants must hold a GCSAA student membership.
- Children of members of the GCSAA Foundation Board of Trustees, the GCSAA Board of Directors, and GCSAA staff are ineligible.

Awards and Selection
- Awards are granted based on academic record, work experience, extracurricular involvement, and demonstrated potential to become a top professional in golf course management.
- The top honor, the Mendenall Award, includes a $6,000 scholarship plus an all-expenses-paid trip to the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show.
- Typically, 10–15 Scholars will receive awards in the $1,500–$2,500 range, and up to 10 Merit Winners will receive $500 each.
- The Ambassador Award is available to outstanding international students (non-U.S. citizens) enrolled at a U.S. university. To be considered, applicants must document non-U.S. citizenship, satisfy the general GCSAA scholarship eligibility requirements, and rank among the top candidates in the GCSAA Scholars Competition.
- Applicants will be informed of award decisions by August 1.
- Scholarship checks are issued payable to both the recipient and their educational institution.

Application materials (required)
1. Transcripts
- Submit transcripts from all high schools, colleges, and other post-secondary institutions attended, showing grades through your most recent completed semester. Official copies are not required.

2. Advisor’s Report
- This form must be completed by your academic advisor or the head of your department at your current school.
- If you are submitting the form yourself, you may upload it as a PDF within the online application.
- If your advisor is submitting the form, they may email it directly to Kera Matchett.

3. Superintendent’s Report
- A golf course superintendent for whom you have worked must complete this form.
- The superintendent’s report should be placed in a sealed envelope by the superintendent and mailed with your application, or the superintendent may email it directly to Kera Matchett.
- Alternatively, if you are attaching the form yourself, you may upload it as a PDF within the application.

4. Essays
- Complete the essay portion through the application form or upload your essays as separate files.
- Respond to the following prompts:
a. What has inspired you to pursue a career as a golf course superintendent?
b. How have you prepared to accomplish this objective?
c. What do you expect from a career as a golf course superintendent?

Notes
- If you have questions about submitting reference materials by email, address them to Kera Matchett.