CLA Foundation Opportunity Scholarship 2026: Up to $15,000 for Accounting, Finance & Tech Students
Are you a student aiming for a career in accounting, finance, or tech fields like AI? The CLA Foundation Opportunity Scholarship Program 2026 offers up to $15,000 to support promising leaders. With a deadline of May 19, 2026, this program targets high school seniors and college students across the U.S.
What Is the CLA Foundation Opportunity Scholarship Program 2026?
The CLA Foundation Opportunity Scholarship Program 2026 helps students pursue degrees in key areas tied to CliftonLarsonAllen LLP (CLA). It focuses on fields like accounting, business, and finance. Emerging studies also qualify, such as computer science, data science, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
This scholarship comes from the CLA Foundation and is managed by Scholarship America. They handle thousands of programs for companies and groups. The goal is to spot and reward future leaders who can shape these industries.
Award Details
If chosen, you get a $15,000 award. The program plans to give out up to 69 awards. This money helps cover tuition and other school costs for the full academic year.
Awards go to full-time students at accredited two-year or four-year colleges, universities, or grad schools. It supports both undergrad and graduate studies.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, meet these basics:
- Be a high school senior, recent grad, or current undergrad/grad student in the U.S.
- Plan full-time enrollment next academic year at an approved school.
- Target a degree in CLA-related fields: accounting, business, finance, or others like UX/UI design, machine learning, robotics, digital media, or ethics in tech.
- Hold a GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
You cannot apply if you are a CLA intern, employee, or close family member of one. This keeps things fair.
How Selection Works
Judges pick winners based on several factors:
- Your grades and academic record.
- Leadership in school clubs, community service, or teams.
- Any jobs or work history.
- Your essay on career goals and plans.
- Special challenges in your life or family.
- A recommendation from someone who knows your work.
They review applications as a team. The sponsor has final say on who qualifies.
Application Steps and Deadline
Start by going to the official application site. You need to upload a full transcript showing your name, school, grades, and course credits. Grade reports do not count.
Write a clear statement about your education and career aims. Get an online recommendation too. Submit everything by May 19, 2026.
For full details, check the CLA Foundation Opportunity Scholarship page through Scholarship America. Act fast to meet the deadline and boost your future in these growing fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CLA Foundation Opportunity Scholarship Program 2026?
This program offers up to $15,000 to help U.S. high school seniors and college students pursue degrees in accounting, finance, business, or tech fields like AI and cybersecurity.
Who can apply for the scholarship?
You qualify if you are a high school senior, recent grad, or current undergrad/grad student in the U.S. with a GPA of at least 2.5, planning full-time study in eligible fields at an accredited school.
What is the award amount and how many are available?
Selected students receive $15,000 to cover tuition and school costs, with up to 69 awards given out for the full academic year.
When is the application deadline and how do I apply?
Submit by May 19, 2026, through the Scholarship America site with your transcript, career goals essay, and a recommendation letter.