FAQs

Who is eligible to apply for a GWESP Scholarship?

All High School Seniors graduating in the application year are eligible to apply for a Gospel Worship Experience Scholarship Program Scholarship.

When will the scholarships be awarded?

All scholarships will be awarded on October 3rd 2026, 3:30pm at Mt. Zion Baptist Church 18410 Chapel Drive, Triangle Virginia 22172. “ All Must be present to win and parents must know that you have entered, if you can’t be present, please let us know and we will assist you with other help while you are in college”.

Are there any guidelines for my essay?

Yes. In order to be considered for a scholarship all essays must include the following:

• A Cover Page which will include:

  • Your name, phone number, Parents contact information

  • Essay topic

  • Date prepared

  • High school

  • Extra curricular activities (sports, clubs, band)

  • Grade point average (GPA)

  • College going to or accepted to

• A copy of your College acceptance letter (attach; PDF or image scan acceptable)

• Resume

• The Body must be:

  • Written to this years theme (see Below)

  • Times Roman 12 pitch

  • Double spaced

  • Spell checked

  • Not to exceed 1,500 words

  • Submitted in Word or PDF ONLY

What is this years theme?

The subject for the 2026 essay contest is: Purpose, Belonging, and the First-Year Pivot “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there.” — Maya Angelou

Write an essay explaining how you will build purpose and belonging during your first year of college, and outline the concrete habits, campus resources, and support systems that will keep you on track academically, socially, and financially when plans change.

 What is the application deadline?

All essays shall be sent to kjlgwesp17@yahoo.com by 11:59 pm August 21, 2026. Any essays emailed after that time and date will be disqualified.

How will scholarships be awarded?

Each year there will be a top scholarship winner that has articulated the theme with excellence over the rest, as determined by a panel of judges.  The winner will orally present their essay to the congregation, and receive the top scholarship along with a plaque.  Second and third place winners will receive a plaque along with their scholarship.  All other scholarship winners will receive their scholarship blessing on stage with the host. 

Where will the scholarships be awarded?

All scholarships will be awarded on October 3rd 2026, 3:30pm at Mt. Zion Baptist Church 18410 Chapel drive, Triangle Virginia 22172. All applicants must be present to win.