City of Cambridge Scholarship Fund

Cambridge created its scholarship fund in 1993 to support residents pursuing postsecondary education. A municipal committee of six residents reviews applications, with applicant names hidden during ranking. Awards are paid directly to the educational institution, not issued as unrestricted cash.

For the 2026 cycle, Cambridge residents of any age could apply if they were attending, admitted to, or had an application pending at an accredited institution. The award was one-time, and prior recipients could not apply again. The file included a transcript, evaluation from a counsellor or professional, and a financial-aid questionnaire.

The City reported 86 awards of $3,000 for 2025 but has not published the 2027 amount. The 2026 application closed March 4. Finance lists 617-349-4220, Scholarships@cambridgema.gov, and 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The <a data-profile="cambridge-finance-department">Finance profile</a> is the contact route for the next cycle.

Who it serves and what it can cover: Cambridge residents of any age could apply with admission received or pending. It is a one-time award per person, paid directly to an accredited institution; review considers academics, involvement, financial need, and special circumstances.

How to apply or get help: The 2026 deadline was March 4 and that cycle is closed. No 2027 date is posted. Contact the Finance Department at 617-349-4220 or Scholarships@cambridgema.gov. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.

Official application and program information