If you’re a Hispanic student living in Florida and looking for help paying for college, the José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant could be just what you need. This scholarship is designed to support hardworking students with financial need. Whether you’re an undergrad, or a graduate student, this guide will show you everything you need to know to apply and win.
What Is the Jose Marti Scholarship?
The Jose Marti Scholarship Challenge Grant is a state-funded program in Florida. It offers up to $2,000 per year to Hispanic students who show both academic merit and financial need. The scholarship is open to students planning to attend eligible Florida colleges, whether public or private.
Unlike many scholarships, this one supports both undergraduate and graduate students. However, priority is given to graduating high school seniors who apply for the first time.
Who Was José Martí and Why This Scholarship Matters
Jose Marti was a Cuban writer, teacher, and freedom fighter. He believed deeply in justice, education, and human rights. The scholarship named in his honor carries on his mission by helping Latino and Hispanic students get the education they deserve.
When you apply for this scholarship, you’re not just applying for money—you’re joining a tradition of strong, educated voices that stand for fairness and opportunity.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the José Martí Scholarship, you must meet the following:
- Be of Hispanic origin, with roots in Mexico, Central or South America, or the Caribbean (Note: Brazil, Spain, and Haiti are not included)
- Live in Florida and plan to attend a college or university in Florida
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Be enrolled as a full-time student (12+ credit hours undergrad, 9+ credit hours grad)
- Show financial need through your FAFSA
- Not owe money or be in default on any federal or state grants, loans, or aid
Scholarship Prioritization Rules: Who Gets Picked First?
Due to limited funds, applicants are placed in the following priority order:
- Renewal applicants (students who already received the scholarship)
- New high school seniors applying for the first time
- Reinstatement applicants (past recipients reapplying after losing aid)
- Restoration applicants (those reapplying after becoming ineligible)
- Initial graduate student applicants
Apply early and completely to boost your chances!
How to Apply for the Jose Marti Scholarship (Step-by-Step)
- Submit the FAFSA – Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid before March 15, 2025.
- Create a student account – Go to the Florida Student Financial Aid portal and register.
- Fill out the José Martí Scholarship application – Choose the scholarship and complete all fields carefully.
- Upload your transcripts – High school students: send unweighted GPA transcript through 7th semester – College students: send most recent institutional transcript
- Submit before the deadline – The official deadline is April 1, 2025
- Watch your email – You’ll be notified in summer 2025 if you’ve been selected.
✅ Note: No essay is required for this scholarship, but some schools (like FIU) may have their own additional application or essay process.
Tips to Make Your Application Stronger
- Apply early – Applications are ranked by date submitted if there’s a tie.
- Check your transcripts – Make sure they show a clear GPA and no missing info.
- Double-check eligibility – Ethnic background and residency are key factors.
- Keep full-time enrollment – Dropping below the credit minimum can make you ineligible.
- Ask for help – School counselors can review your application and documents.
Key Dates to Remember
| Task | Date |
|---|---|
| FAFSA Submission Deadline | March 15, 2025 |
| Scholarship Application Deadline | April 1, 2025 |
| Application Opens | October 1, 2024 |
| Award Notices Sent | Summer 2025 |
FAQs About the Jose Marti Scholarship
Can I apply as a graduate student?
Yes, but graduate students are in the last priority group.
Can I renew this scholarship every year?
Yes, up to 4 years for undergraduates and 2 years for graduates—if you remain eligible.
Does it cover private schools in Florida?
Yes, as long as they are eligible under state guidelines.
Do I have to write an essay?
No essay is required for the state program, but some colleges (like FIU) may ask for one separately.
Can I apply if I was born in Brazil or Spain?
No. Only students with Hispanic backgrounds from Latin America and the Caribbean (excluding Brazil, Spain, and Haiti) qualify.
Final Thoughts
The José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant is more than just a scholarship—it’s a stepping stone for Florida’s Hispanic students chasing their dreams. If you meet the eligibility requirements, don’t wait. Prepare your documents, apply early, and take full advantage of this powerful opportunity.
At Scholar Lift, we’re here to help you succeed with clear, reliable scholarship guidance—because your future is worth it.