What is the West Central Electric Cooperative Scholarship Program?

The West Central Electric Cooperative Scholarship Program is a program developed and designed to encourage and recognize the academic achievements of the children of West Central Electric Cooperative members.

This recognition will be in the form of scholarships to assist with their continuing education after high school. The scholarship program is also an investment in the economic future of our rural areas.

How may the scholarship be used?

The West Central Electric Scholarship program will award scholarships to students of rural electric cooperative members in the five counties served by West Central Electric Cooperative.

The scholarships are for the 2025-2026 school year. The scholarships may be used for educational costs, housing or educational materials. The student must enter College/Vocational School in the fall of the school year in which the scholarship is given.

Who is eligible to receive the scholarship?

The applicant must be a U.S. citizen and the natural or adopted child of a member of West Central Electric Cooperative. The applicant must be a graduating high school senior who is enrolled or planning to enroll in a full-time graduate or undergraduate course of study at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university. One-half of the scholarship money will be given to students who are enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited vocational/technical school.

How are the recipients selected?

The scholarships are awarded on the following guidelines. Work experience, participation in school and community activities, a statement explaining his/her educational and career goals, SAT/ACT scores, and a written recommendation by a third party, not someone associated with the education system. A short essay is also required. Applications without all the listed criteria will not be considered.

How can I apply?

To apply, you must provide the required criteria and a completed scholarship application, which can be obtained from your local high school, at the West Central Electric Cooperative headquarters in Murdo, SD or by downloading the application packet by clicking the link at the top of the page (PDF).

Applications should be returned to West Central Electric and must be received by February 14, 2025, to be eligible. The applicant is responsible for submitting all the necessary information to apply for the scholarship.

For further information contact our office.