Rihanna Launches Scholarship Program

International superstar Rihanna, through her Clara Lionel Foundation, which is named after her grandparents, is helping bring students in need closer to their dream of a college education.

The Grammy Award-winning singer announced a global scholarship program that will provide scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 to students in the U.S. and from either Barbados, Brazil, Cuba, Haiti, Guyana and Jamaica.

“To be able to give the gift of an education is actually an honor,” Rihanna said. “Higher education will help provide perspective, opportunities and learning to a group of kids who really deserve it.  I am thrilled to be able to do this.”

About 50 finalists — who will be selected based on: academic performance, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, work experience and a personal essay – will be screened by a scholarship committee. Winners will be announced in August.

The number of the students to be selected will vary, with a goal of awarding as many scholarships as possible. The scholarships can be renewed for up to three years or until a bachelor’s degree is earned.

Applications for the full-tuition grant are open now through June 10, 2016. For more information about the scholarship program, visit the Clara Lionel Foundation website.