Completing the Dream Scholarship Program

The application period for the Completing the Dream Scholarship Program is currently open.

No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Valid 6/1/2026 at 12 p.m. ET–7/17/2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET or until all scholarship dollars have been awarded.

Apply now

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Helping more students graduate

the Sallie Mae Fund’s Completing the Dream Scholarship Program helps students complete their post-secondary education. Students on-track to complete their degree or continuous education program who are facing financial challenges may apply to receive a one-time scholarship of up to $2,500 to help complete their post-secondary education program.

Scholarship applications for AY 2026-2027 are being accepted now through 7/17/2026 or until all scholarship dollars have been awarded.

Interested in applying for a scholarship?

Find out more and apply

The importance of college completion

Leading Research

How America Completes College 2024 Our study looks at students’ journeys to college graduation, barriers to completion, and opportunities to support their success.

Strategic Partnerships

In 2023, Sallie Mae committed a $1 million research endowment to Delaware State University to fund a three-year "Persistence and Completion Pilot Program" to help identify barriers to college completion.

In the News

Focusing Reform to Address the College Completion Gap

Testimonials

Helping More Students Return to College and Graduate

A scholarship to help students persist and succeed

To address financial obstacles that can prevent students from completing their post-secondary program, The Sallie Mae Fund launched the Completing the Dream Scholarship Program, in partnership with Thurgood Marshall College Fund.

Since 2021, we’ve awarded more than 1,100 Completing the Dream Scholarships totaling $2.8 million, to help students complete their dream of higher education.

Meet our previous scholarship recipients

Donnesha Williams
Alabama State University

“This scholarship helped remove not only a financial burden, but also an emotional burden of not knowing if I’d be able to walk across the stage, and for that, I'm forever grateful.”

Tyree Thomas
Tuskegee University

“The Completing the Dream Scholarship has been a transformative force in my academic journey, propelling me to new heights, expanding my network, and opening doors to a world of incredible opportunities.”

Travion Crutcher
Tennessee State University

“This scholarship helped me graduate with $0 in college debt, a goal I set for myself entering college.”

Christian Blue
Harris-Stow State

“The Completing the Dream Scholarship didn’t just help me continue my education but also motivated me to stay proactive in my classes.”

footnote No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Ends July 17, 2026. See Official Rules.