Our 2025 application is now open!
Our application is open to all graduating high school seniors in Missouri pursuing higher education. The application period is typically between mid-December and March 1.
MCS has awarded over $250,000 since 2015. Awards range from $500-$2,000. If you have questions or difficulty accessing the application, please email admin@courage-scholarship.org.
2025 Courage Award categories included:
MCS has awarded over $250,000 since 2015. Awards range from $500-$2,000. If you have questions or difficulty accessing the application, please email admin@courage-scholarship.org.
2025 Courage Award categories included:
- Missouri Courage Award (MCA) is for Missouri students who have demonstrated commitment (or show great potential) to work for change in their community to advance the lives of LGBTQ people or impact other social justice causes.
- Rural Courage Award (RCA) is for students residing in rural Missouri communities who meet the MCA award qualifications. Students from Dent County, Missouri will be given preference in the RCA selection process (see our History for the background on that preference).
- Trans Courage Award (TCA) is for transgender or non-binary students who also meet the MCA award qualifications.
- Fortier Courage Award (FCA) is a special award in honor of Shirley Fortier and is for students who intend to major in education.
- Pay it Forward Award (PIF) is a personalized award for student athletes with an interest in political science, pre-law or related subjects.
- Tower Grove Pride Courage Award for students from the St. Louis City area.
- Miss Gay City of Columbia Courage Award is for students from the Columbia area.
Each year, MCS receives applications from 50+ counties across Missouri!
