QCWA Scholarship
Program
Help the next generation of amateur radio operators turn their curiosity, dedication, and ambition into a college education.
Supporting students through our partnership with the ARRL Foundation.
Program figures reported in the QCWA Scholarship Program brochure, October 2026.
Who can apply?
QCWA scholarships support worthy licensed amateur radio operators enrolled in accredited colleges or universities and pursuing degree-granting programs.
- No QCWA program restrictions by amateur license class, race, sex, residence, or field of study.
- Applicants must be recommended by an active QCWA member.
- Applications are completed online through the ARRL Foundation, which administers the program in partnership with QCWA.
Check the ARRL Foundation's current scholarship descriptions and application instructions for eligibility, required documents, and the applicable deadline.
Start your scholarship journey
Explore the scholarships
Review the scholarship descriptions and current eligibility requirements on the ARRL Foundation website.
Arrange your QCWA recommendation
Ask an active QCWA member to recommend you. Members can use the sponsor recommendation form linked below. Need help connecting with a member? Contact our Scholarship Chair.
Complete your online application
Follow the ARRL Foundation's instructions and submit all required supporting documents with your application.
The QCWA brochure describes an annual application period beginning after October 31, with deadlines in early January. Confirm the exact dates for your application year directly with the ARRL Foundation.
From one award to hundreds of futures
The QCWA Board of Directors established the Scholarship Program in 1977. Its first scholarship, a $500 award, was presented in 1978.
Since then, gifts from QCWA chapters, members, and other supporters have grown the invested Scholarship Fund. Earnings from that fund help provide scholarships year after year, connecting amateur radio's proud history with its future.
Lifelong fellowship. Lasting impact.
The Quarter Century Wireless Association brings together amateur radio operators who have held their licenses for at least twenty-five years. Through friendship, collaboration, and service, our members celebrate the legacy of amateur radio while helping inspire the next generation.