Scholarship Information
The purpose of the MANA del Norte (MDN) Scholarship is to provide financial assistance to Hispanas/Latinas who are pursuing a post-secondary degree. In addition, we aim to create an empowering network of women in northern New Mexico who support one another in achieving their college goals and beyond.
Scholarship Description
MANA del Norte scholarships are needs-based and awarded annually to college students at all levels of their journey. Community college students are eligible as are students working towards their Bachelor's, Master's or Doctoral degrees. MANA del Norte is especially interested in supporting women who are first-generation, and/or have other areas of challenge such as re-entering college, or being the head of their household. We also draw from the cultural strengths as Hispanas/Latinas in northern New Mexico to succeed in college.
In 2026, we expect to award ten (10) scholarships of $1200 for hermanas pursuing an associate or bachelor degree and one (1) scholarship of $2500 for a hermana pursuing a graduate level degree.
Award Criteria
Scholarship decisions are made by a committee of MDN members, all Hispanas/Latinas living in northern New Mexico.
Decisions are based on the following factors:
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Financial need
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First generation status
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GPA
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Personal Statement
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Character reference
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Special circumstances and unique needs of the candidate.
Requirements/Eligibility Guidelines
In order to be considered for a MDN scholarship, you must:
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Identify as Hispana/Latina.
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Be a current or former resident of one of the following six (6) northern New Mexico counties: Los Alamos, Mora, Rio Arriba, Santa Fe, San Miguel or Taos.
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Be enrolled or plan to be enrolled in an accredited community college, college or university by the beginning of the 2026-2027 academic year, at least half time (6 units/credit hours or more).
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Demonstrate financial need.
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Have a minimum 2.5 GPA (verified by an unofficial high school or college transcript).
How to Apply
In addition to the questions below you will also need to submit two items:
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An unofficial transcript from any of your current educational institutions (high school or current college)
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A character reference from an employer, a college instructor or high school instructor/counselor.
April- Application Opens
Our Scholarship Announcement Application form is generally posted no later than April 1, each year.
Sign up for our listserve to be the first to know!
June- Applications Due
Applications consist of a personal essay discussing your connection to Northern New Mexico, your cultural pride, and your college goals.
The application requires a transcript and statement of financial need.
Aug- Winners Announced
Awards are announced in August. Winners will receive their financial awards at a Scholarship Luncheon we throw for Scholars and their family members in September.
