Greek-American undergraduate students across the United States are invited to apply for the 2025–2026 PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation Awards, now open through January 31, 2026.
Each year, the Foundation distributes $250,000 in scholarship funds to recognize students of Hellenic descent who excel academically, uphold Hellenic values, and show leadership in their communities. The awards are open to eligible students from all 50 states and aim to honor excellence and support those working hard to reach their educational goals.
This year’s program includes 20 $10,000 scholarships based on academic achievement, financial need, and character, and 20 $2,500 scholarships recognizing outstanding academic performance. An additional $20,000 is dedicated to students studying music and the arts, made possible by the generosity of the late George and Angela Paterakis, who endowed the Georgia Sfondouris Mitchell Fund to encourage creativity within the Greek-American community.
To qualify, applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents of Hellenic descent, enrolled full-time at an accredited U.S. college or university for Fall 2025, and in their sophomore, junior, or senior year with a minimum GPA of 3.6. This slightly higher threshold reflects the Foundation’s continued emphasis on academic distinction. Applications must be submitted electronically and completed by January 31, 2026.
Founded in Chicago, the PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation is a nonprofit organization devoted to promoting education and leadership among Greek Americans. Guided by its mission “to build a better America through Education and Hellenism,” the Foundation helps students develop their potential while remaining connected to their heritage. Inspired by the ancient Greek idea of paideia — the lifelong pursuit of knowledge and virtue — it has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships and built a national network of scholars and mentors united by a shared heritage.
Recipients are selected by an independent Academic Committee appointed by the Foundation’s Board of Directors. The process ensures that each award reflects academic merit, financial need, and the spirit of filotimo, a quality that continues to define the Hellenic community.
Alongside its primary scholarships, the Foundation offers the PanHellenic Leadership Fellow Program, a separate and highly competitive initiative that provides a renewable scholarship totaling $30,000 over a student’s college career. This program supports sophomores who demonstrate exceptional service and leadership, particularly those with Midwest roots. Fellows are paired with mentors in their field, take part in alumni initiatives, and stay connected with the Foundation as they reach academic and personal milestones.
Beyond financial aid, the Foundation continues to expand its opportunities for students and young professionals. Through the Internship Alliance Program, launched in partnership with leading organizations, twelve participants were placed in professional internships during 2024, connecting academic achievement with real-world experience. These programs reflect the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to preparing Greek-American youth for meaningful careers and leadership roles.
The Foundation also recognizes the generosity of its supporters through the Scholarship Society, which includes the Scholarship 50, Scholarship 100, and Scholarship 200 giving levels. These tiers help sustain the Foundation’s mission and ensure that more students can benefit from its programs for years to come.
Each year, the Foundation’s work culminates in its annual Awards Gala, which brings together honorees, families, and supporters from across the United States to celebrate excellence and strengthen bonds within the Greek-American community. Over the years, recipients have come from universities and parishes across the country, reflecting the broad reach of the Greek-American diaspora. Whether in major cities or small hometowns, the Foundation continues to serve as a bridge between education and heritage, reaffirming that areti (excellence) and filotimo (honor) remain at the heart of Hellenic life in America.
Students who meet the criteria are encouraged to apply early and review the full eligibility requirements on the Foundation’s website.
Access the 2025–2026 Application: panhellenicsf.org
Email: scholarships@panhellenicsf.org
Phone: 312-357-6432
Featured image: A PanHellenic Scholarship recipient is honored during the Foundation’s annual Awards Gala, celebrating Greek-American academic excellence and community values. Photo courtesy of the PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation.