Find answers to frequently asked questions of students, parents and donors about the YSU Foundation.
General FAQ
What is the Youngstown State University Foundation’s relationship with Youngstown State University?
The YSU Foundation is an independent, autonomous, private, charitable 501(c)(3) organization that pursues, manages, and distributes resources to support scholarships and student initiatives.
Who governs the Foundation?
The YSU Foundation Board of Trustees is a group of up to 44 volunteers who have the authority to manage and conduct the affairs of the Foundation. Trustees are considered based on their skill set, experience, and other relevant factors that each individual would bring to the Foundation.
What is the best way to give to the Foundation?
The YSU Foundation offers a variety of ways for you to make a gift. Please visit our “Ways to Give” page to see which method best suits your needs.
Are there any fees associated with my gift?
No. 100% of your gift goes to your designated area of support.
How is my gift spent?
Your gift will be sent directly to the area of support that you choose. You will receive an acknowledgement that confirms we received your gift and where it was designated.
Will my gift be tax-deductible?
Yes. Your acknowledgement letter, which you receive as confirmation of your gift, can be used for tax purposes.
How do I establish an endowed scholarship?
The minimum amount to establish an endowed scholarship is $20,000. Many individuals fund their scholarship with a pledge spanning over 3 to 5 years. To discuss your wishes, please contact us at 330.941.3211.
Students & Parents FAQ
Do I have to be a YSU student to fill out the YSUF application?
Yes, you must be admitted to Youngstown State University before completing the online scholarship application. Your YSU banner ID number is required to complete the process.
How can I find the application?
Click on the “Scholarship Application” button on the top right corner of the website, which will take you directly to the application.
How long does it take to complete the application? Am I able to start the application and finish at a different time?
It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much information you need to provide. The application will autosave, and you will be able to pick up right where you left off.
When is the application deadline?
The scholarship application deadline is February 1, and it must be completed every year. Tip: To stay ahead of the deadline, make a note to apply during winter break!
Do I have to fill out the FAFSA prior to filling out the YSU Foundation scholarship application?
It is recommended that you complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) before completing our online application. Many, but not all, Foundation-held scholarships require the completion of the FAFSA.
I don’t qualify for federal aid; can I still qualify for YSU Foundation scholarships?
Yes! Not all the scholarships offered are need-based.
I filled out the application last year. Why didn’t I get a scholarship this year?
To be eligible for YSU Foundation scholarships, you must fill out the application every year. Be on the lookout for reminders on social media and through email!
I can’t find any scholarships for my major. Should I still apply?
Even if there are no scholarships for your major, the Foundation offers over 1100 scholarships that might support a match with you. Other criteria used in the matching process include where you went to high school, extracurricular activities, etc.
When will I find out if I was selected to receive a scholarship?
Notices are sent out by mail in early May.
I am the parent of a YSU student. Can you tell me if my child has completed the online application?
We are separate from the university; therefore, we cannot provide any information to a parent or guardian until we can confirm with Youngstown State University that an Education Information Release via Proxy is on file, which is available for you to fill out through the student’s Penguin Portal.