Become a Member  | Make a Payment | Schedule Appointment | Apply for loan

ONLINE BANKING

Scholarship Program

A young woman wearing a graduation cap, burgundy stole, and black off-shoulder top smiles joyfully while standing outdoors in front of a brick building.

RVA Financial $1,000 Future Builders Scholarship

Invest in your next chapter.

RVA Financial is proud to support the dreams of graduating seniors and the next generation of builders, creators, and leaders. Our $1,000 Future Builders Scholarship is awarded to one recent high school graduate to help cover educational expenses for college or trade school.
 
Whether you’re headed to a four-year university, community college, or a skilled-trade program, we’re cheering you on—and we’d love to help you get there.
 
Scholarship Award
    • Amount: $1,000
    • Number of Awards: 1
    • Use of Funds: Tuition, fees, books, tools, supplies, or other approved education-related expenses
    • Paid: Scholarship funds will be issued directly to the school/program upon verification of enrollment.
 

Who Can Apply

Three graduates in caps and gowns sit on outdoor steps, smiling and holding up their diplomas. Trees and greenery are in the background, creating a celebratory and joyful atmosphere.
Eligibility Requirements
 
Applicants must:
  • Be a recent high school graduate (within the past 12 months)
  • Plan to enroll full-time or part-time in an accredited college, university, community college, or trade/technical school for the upcoming term
  • Reside in the City of Richmond or the surrounding counties
  • Have a minimum GPA of  3.0 (unweighted) or provide proof of good academic standing
  • Demonstrate good character, community involvement, or leadership potential
  • Be a member of RVA Financial or open an account before applying

Not a member? Become a member today.

Become a Member

How to Apply

Submit the following items:

    1. Completed Application Form – Include your contact info, high school, graduation date, and intended program/school.
    2. Personal Essay (500–750 words)

Choose one prompt:

    • Prompt A: Describe your educational or career goal and how trade school/college will help you get there.
    • Prompt B: Tell us about a challenge you’ve overcome and what it taught you about persistence and growth.
    • Prompt C: What does financial wellness mean to you at this stage of life?

3. Unofficial Transcript or GPA Verification A screenshot from your student portal is acceptable

4. One Letter of Recommendation – From a teacher, counselor, coach, employer, mentor, or community leader.

5. Proof of Acceptance or Intent to Enroll – If you’re still waiting on acceptance letters, you may submit proof later.

How to Submit

Email us or drop by the branch to pick up an application.
 
Important Dates
• Applications Open: [Month Day, 2026]
  • Application Deadline: [Month Day, 2026] at 11:59 PM
  • Finalist Notification: [Month Day, 2026]
  • Winner Announced: [Month Day, 2026]
  • Funds Disbursed: After enrollment is verified for [Fall 2026 / upcoming term]

Winner Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed by a scholarship committee based on:
 
  • Essay content and clarity (40%)
  • Goals and motivation (20%)
  • Community involvement / leadership / work experience (20%) • Academic effort and performance (20%)
We value heart, hustle, and direction—not just perfect grades.
 

Details and Guidelines

The scholarship is open to students pursuing college or skilled trades, including programs such as:

1

Welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing

2

Automotive, CDL, culinary, cosmetology

3

Healthcare certifications

4

Community college, university, or accredited certification programs

Apply Now

Ready to build your future? We can’t wait to meet you.
 

RVA Financial reserves the right to modify or cancel the scholarship program at any time. Scholarship award is subject to verification of eligibility and enrollment. Incomplete applications may not be considered. Scholarship funds are non-transferable and must be used for education-related expenses. Decisions of the scholarship committee are final. 

RVA Scholarship Program

Apply Now

Apply Here
1700 Robin Hood Road
Richmond, VA 23220

Banking should feel easy,
and with us, it is.

Download Mobile App
Android | iPhone

 Call anytime 24/7
(804) 359-8754

Follow us!

Tap or scan
with your mobile device.

Facebook Youtube Instagram Linkedin Tiktok

Routing # 251082495    |    NMLS#523374  |  Privacy Policy

If you are using a screen reader or other auxiliary aid and are having problems using this website, please call 804-359-8754 for assistance. All products and services available on this website are available at all RVA Financial Federal Credit Union full-service locations.